Looking to target rookies in your 2025 fantasy football draft? We’ve ranked the top 10 first-year players from the NFL Draft by fantasy potential in redraft and dynasty leagues. Get breakdowns on talent, opportunity, and upside for each pick.
While drafted as a two-way player, Hunter is expected to focus on offense in Jacksonville. His elite athleticism and target share upside make him a high-upside WR3 with breakout WR2 potential.
Ward is likely to start Week 1, and his dual-threat ability makes him a strong fantasy QB2 with weekly streaming appeal--especially in 2QB and Superflex leagues.
Henderson has day-one starter potential and could inherit the early-down work. His pass-catching upside gives him strong RB2/flex value in PPR formats.
With limited competition for targets in Carolina, McMillan’s size and red-zone prowess could make him a sneaky fantasy sleeper and waiver-wire gem.
A tough, versatile runner, Jeanty could take over the Raiders’ backfield by midseason. In dynasty, he's already a top-5 rookie pick.
Not fantasy relevant in traditional leagues, but a foundational piece for Henderson and the Patriots’ offense as a whole. Boosts confidence in their run game.
If Dart starts early, his mobility and deep-ball accuracy give him upside as a bye-week filler and DFS dart throw in soft matchups.
Rookie tight ends are risky, but Loveland’s athleticism and opportunity in Chicago make him one of the few with streamer appeal.
For IDP leagues, Watts is a do-it-all defensive back who could rack up tackles and splash plays in an aggressive Falcons defense.
A seventh-rounder with speed and special teams value, Smith is a deep stash who could pop if injuries strike Kansas City’s backfield.
Honorable Mentions: Phil Mafah (Cowboys), Jimmy Horn Jr. (Panthers), Jared Wilson (Patriots)
Published: May 3, 2025 by Split Kingdom