PlayerProfiler continues to be a leading resource for fantasy football enthusiasts, particularly with its Dynasty Deluxe package, which features comprehensive dynasty rankings, rookie rankings, trade analyzers, draft planners, mock drafts, and more. In light of the upcoming 2025 season, fantasy expert Jeffrey Waalkes has analyzed potential running back sleepers and busts, aiming to guide managers towards making informed draft decisions.
The dynamic nature of fantasy football means that players who exceed expectations—sleepers—can significantly impact season outcomes, while busts can negatively affect teams that invest heavily in them. This knowledge can distinguish a successful draft from a disappointing one as the season progresses.
Among the sleepers, Tyjae Spears of the Tennessee Titans stands out. Despite facing injuries in the previous season, Spears has shown his capability to excel as a feature back, notably demonstrating his skills when given opportunity—especially in Week 17 against a strong defense. With a new coaching emphasis on a balanced workload, Spears, currently ranked around RB40, presents considerable upside and could play a crucial role if the Titans’ backfield landscape changes.
Ray Davis, a rookie with the Buffalo Bills, is another sleeper to watch. While James Cook’s contract situation may overshadow him, Davis has proven his worth in the offense. As a power back who brings both strength and agility, he could carve out a significant role, particularly if Cook faces any setbacks.
Jarquez Hunter of the Los Angeles Rams presents yet another intriguing sleeper option. Despite being behind established runners Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, Hunter’s performance at Auburn showcased his agility and balance. Should the opportunity arise due to injuries in the roster, Hunter could quickly establish himself as a contributing player.
On the flip side, some players present greater risks as potential busts. Jaylen Warren, who seemed poised for an increased role after Najee Harris was released, faces stiff competition from rookie Kaleb Johnson, who has the skill set to claim a significant share of touches.
Joe Mixon of the Houston Texans and James Cook both illustrate the volatility of relying on high draft picks. Mixon, while performing well initially, struggled during critical playoff moments and now faces challenges from both a new addition to the backfield and concerns around his health. Similarly, Cook’s previous impressive performance appears unsustainable, particularly as emerging talents like Davis seek to make an impact.
Fantasy football demands strategic planning, and with the right insights into underappreciated players and looming threats, managers can enhance their chances of success. By targeting players like Spears, Davis, and Hunter, while being cautious of the risks presented by Mixon, Cook, and Warren, fantasy enthusiasts can approach the draft with a clearer vision of the landscape ahead.
Overall, the approach this season should be founded on value—finding under-the-radar players who can deliver when it counts while avoiding those who may hinder your team’s performance. The landscape of fantasy football is ever-changing, and every season brings new opportunities for growth and excitement.