As fantasy football prepares for 2025 drafts, a computer-based projection from SportsLine pushes a familiar set of players to the top across quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end, while also weighing the burst of rookies against preseason expectations.
What the model says about 2025 QB rankings
– Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: Jackson remains the QB to beat in fantasy, combining a career-best passing line with elite rushing upside to produce top-scoring seasons.
– Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: Even with a dip in passing yards and TDs relative to his peak, Allen’s floor is sky-high thanks to his rushing contributions.
– Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals: Burrow’s efficiency and increased familiarity in his system keep him among the top fantasy quarterbacks.
What the model says about 2025 RB rankings
– Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions: Gibbs is ranked No. 1 at running back thanks to his dynamic playmaking in both the running and passing games, despite the presence of David Montgomery in Detroit.
– Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons: Robinson’s continued progression from year two and his strong volume profile keep him near the top of the list.
– Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles: Barkley is viewed as a high-floor, high-ceiling option given his workload and the strength of the Eagles’ offense.
What the model says about 2025 WR rankings
– Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals: Chase is coming off a record-breaking 2024 campaign and remains the premier target with a deep connection to Burrow.
– Malik Nabers, New York Giants: Nabers lands second on the WR list after a rookie season in which he piled up targets and productive receiving numbers, even with inconsistent quarterback play.
– Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings: Jefferson, healthy and trending forward, remains one of the league’s elite pass-catching talents.
What the model says about 2025 TE rankings
– Brock Bowers, Las Vegas Raiders: Bowers is the top tight end due to heavy target volume and a central role in the Raiders’ passing attack.
– George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers: Kittle’s consistent production and big-play ability keep him among the top TEs.
– Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals: McBride sits just behind the premier options, offering reliable weekly floor as a focal point in Arizona’s aerial plan.
Context to keep in mind
– The model’s projections are grounded in a history of forecasting real outcomes, including notable calls on players such as A.J. Brown, C.J. Stroud, and others in recent seasons. It also emphasizes the potential roles rookies will play, balancing preseason hype against on-field development.
– A year ago, Marvin Harrison Jr. was seen as a top rookie option in many fantasy leagues, while Bo Nix was undervalued in drafts. For 2025, the model’s numbers suggest a shift in perception: Nabers is highlighted as a prominent rookie contributor, but Tetairoa McMillan isn’t ranked as highly as Harrison was in his rookie year.
Draft strategy takeaways for 2025
– Prioritize high-floor, dual-threat quarterbacks: The top QB trio combines passing efficiency with substantial rushing upside, offering stability across a season.
– Target Gibbs early in the backfield tier, but monitor the backfield committee: His breakout ability is a major factor, yet it’s wise to be mindful of competition in Detroit.
– Treat Nabers as a legitimate fantasy WR1-in-waiting: His rookie volume hints at stable production, though confirm his surrounding cast and QB situation as the season approaches.
– Don’t sleep on Chase and Jefferson: They are proven, high-ceiling receivers who can anchor a fantasy lineup, especially in robust passing offenses.
– Consider Bowers and Kittle as week-to-week difference-makers at tight end: Top-tier tight ends with target volume can provide a reliable edge in many weeks.
– Use the full ranking set to guide sleepers and busts: The model’s complete 2025 positional rankings include sleepers, breakouts and potential busts beyond the top three at each position.
What to look for next
– Check full 2025 rankings and all sleepers and busts to refine targets for late rounds and auction values.
– Monitor offseason moves and quarterback stability for Nabers, McMillan and other receivers projected to take on larger roles.
– Stay alert for any injury news or depth-chart shifts that could alter the projected value of running backs and pass catchers.
Overall, the 2025 projections align with a landscape of elite quarterbacks who can rush the ball, a top-tier RB landscape led by Gibbs and Robinson, and a core of trusted WRs led by Chase and Jefferson, with Nabers poised to rise. This gives fantasy managers a clear framework for building balanced, high-upside rosters while watching the rookie class closely for fast-moving value. If you’re structuring a draft plan, prioritizing these highlighted players and balancing risk with the depth of the supporting cast could yield strong return in your league formats.