Fantasy football thrives on identifying players who outperform expectations. A breakout candidate is not simply a rookie with promise, but any athlete poised to exceed their draft position and become a lineup staple.
For managers preparing their rosters, separating hype from genuine value is critical. Each season delivers new opportunities for hidden gems to rise while established names fade. This year, several quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers stand out as potential difference-makers.
Their performance trends, team situations, and opportunity share suggest they could deliver far more than their current average draft position implies.
By tracking these names early, savvy managers position themselves ahead of the competition and strengthen their chances of weekly dominance.
Justin Fields Could Redefine His Ceiling
The Jets’ addition of Justin Fields presents one of the most intriguing fantasy situations this season. Currently being drafted outside the top 10 quarterbacks, Fields carries the upside of a dual-threat star. In 2022 with Chicago, he rushed for 1,143 yards, the second-highest single-season total ever for a quarterback.
More recently, he closed last season with Pittsburgh averaging 24.5 points per game across his final four starts.
His present average draft position is QB13, creating real value for those willing to take the risk. Fields’ connection with Garrett Wilson could elevate his passing game while his rushing production remains unmatched.
For managers browsing updated projections, early-season FanDuel Picks highlight Fields as one of the best mid-round steals.
Drake Maye Offers Surprising Sophomore Upside
New England’s Drake Maye enters 2025 with a stronger supporting cast and a coordinator known for developing quarterbacks. Josh McDaniels has tailored an offense featuring Stefon Diggs and rookie back TreVeyon Henderson, giving Maye reliable targets across the field.
As a rookie, Maye scored at least 21 fantasy points in half of his 10 healthy starts. On pace for 632 rushing yards, he demonstrated exceptional mobility.
Despite these flashes, his current draft slot remains in the later rounds at QB18. For fantasy managers seeking depth or upside beyond established names, Maye provides an affordable lottery ticket. With improved playmakers and an aggressive system, he could become one of the season’s most surprising fantasy risers.
Omarion Hampton Headlines Rookie Running Backs
Among first-year players, Los Angeles Chargers rookie Omarion Hampton may step into the largest workload. With Najee Harris expected to miss time, Hampton’s opportunity expands immediately.
In his past two seasons at North Carolina, combined for 534 carries for 3,164 yards and 30 touchdowns for 595 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing durability and consistency. His ability as a receiver (67 catches during college) adds another dimension for point-per-reception leagues.
Currently drafted in the third round, his average draft position could rise further before the season begins. The Chargers intend to feature him as a lead back, and if he approaches 40 receptions, top-10 running back status becomes attainable. Fantasy managers targeting stable early-season production should monitor Hampton closely, as his situation combines talent, volume, and an offense eager to establish its ground game.
RJ Harvey Brings Speed and Versatility to Denver
Denver’s rookie running back RJ Harvey has emerged as one of training camp’s most promising breakout candidates. Drafted in the early-middle rounds, Harvey has already earned first-team snaps and impressed with his explosiveness. At the NFL Combine, he posted a 4.40-second 40-yard dash, validating his big-play potential.
In his past two seasons at UCF, Harvey combined for 458 carries for 2,993 yards and 38 touchdowns, and 39 catches for 505 yards and four touchdowns.
With J.K. Dobbins on the roster but struggling with durability, Harvey may seize the starting role quickly. Head coach Sean Payton has a track record of maximizing versatile backs, and Harvey fits that mold perfectly. Currently undervalued in drafts, he carries legitimate potential to finish as Denver’s primary offensive weapon and a fantasy starter across formats.
Tetairoa McMillan Could Transform Carolina’s Passing Game
The Carolina Panthers invested in rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, and early signs point to him becoming Bryce Young’s favorite target. Standing 6-foot-5, McMillan offers size and red-zone presence that the Panthers’ receiving corps has lacked.
During his time at Arizona, he recorded 26 touchdowns across three seasons, displaying consistent scoring ability.
Carolina’s wide receivers combined for just 38 touchdowns over the past three years, leaving plenty of opportunity for McMillan to make an immediate impact. His current draft range positions him as a mid-round option, but his upside suggests WR2 production.
Early preseason action showed him commanding targets, reinforcing his projected role. For fantasy managers, McMillan represents a rare combination of size, volume, and opportunity that could reshape Carolina’s offensive outlook.
Ashton Jeanty Joins the Raiders as a Featured Back
Perhaps the most compelling rookie story is Ashton Jeanty, drafted sixth overall by the Raiders. Jeanty excelled at Boise State, finishing with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 rushing touchdowns in his final season.
His all-around skill set, power, balance, and receiving ability make him an immediate three-down option. Under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, known for his innovative use of running backs, Jeanty should be featured early and often.
Head coach Pete Carroll also favors a run-heavy philosophy, reinforcing Jeanty’s path to volume. The SportsLine projection model, which accurately called past breakouts such as Rachaad White in 2023, identifies Jeanty as a top breakout candidate for 2025.
Fantasy managers searching for a rookie who combines draft pedigree with a clear role should consider him a high-upside pick.
Preparing for Breakouts Beyond the Draft
Fantasy football success often comes from anticipating changes before they appear on the stat sheet. Players like Fields, Maye, Hampton, Harvey, McMillan, and Jeanty each combine talent with favorable situations, but managers must remain agile throughout the season.
Injuries, coaching adjustments, and evolving depth charts can shift opportunities overnight. The most successful fantasy players monitor waiver wires, analyze usage trends, and adapt quickly when breakout candidates emerge.
Drafting potential stars early is one advantage, but sustained engagement across the season is what separates contenders from the rest. This year’s crop of breakout candidates highlights the dynamic nature of fantasy football.
Managers willing to act decisively when an opportunity arises will maximize value and increase their odds of a championship run.
*Content reflects information available as of 2025/08/18; subject to change.
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