By Myles Vazquez
With the 2025 fantasy football season starting soon, some managers are focusing on undervalued players, so-called ‘sleepers’ who are capable of substantial rewards on draft day. Finding the hidden gems can be a game-changer, making a difference with becoming a championship team. With finding ways to target these players who could have potential breakouts, managers can build a roster with enough depth to possibly have a successful season.
J.J. McCarthy, who is currently playing for the Minnesota Vikings, is an excellent example of a sleeper quarterback. Following his impressive collegiate career, McCarthy’s move to the NFL has attracted significant attention, and the Vikings’ offensive system might be adjusted to suit his abilities. With the possibilities for more passing chances and a strengthening connection with his teammates, McCarthy may exceed expectations, positioning him as a valuable late-round selection. (ESPN, 2025a)
At the running back position, athletes like Rashaad Penny and Michael Carter, are creating some buzz around the NFL. Penny, who is known for great speed in running the ball, has the ability to lead the backfield, whereas Carter’s adaptability as both a rusher and receiver positions him as a PPR (points per reception) standout. Managers who select these players in the later rounds can have high-potential players while being able to save their early-round picks. (ESPN, 2025b)
Some ‘sleeper’ wide receivers consist of Emeka Egbuka and Michael Wilson. Egbuka has a great average draft position (ADP) of 116. He has impressed a lot of faces in training camps and might become a primary target in his team’s offense. Wilson gained a lot from the number of chances in the passing game and turned into a trustworthy PPR choice for fantasy managers who are looking for late-round worth. (ESPN, 2025c)
At the position tight end, managers should keep an eye on Trey McBride and Luke Musgrave. McBride has a strong connection with his quarterback, which can lead to more scoring attempts and targets in the red zone. Musgrave’s ability to make big plays and read the field, makes both players interesting options in the later rounds of the draft. Fantasy managers can use these high potential choices without hurting their early-round pick, enabling them to strengthen other areas of their lineup. (ESPN, 2025d)
Selecting sleepers can help fantasy managers to create a flexible team to mix their lineups while reducing risk. By taking on players who are ready for breakout performances, managers can collect valuable players without spending a significant amount of money. This strategy specifically works well in bigger leagues or when the aim is to build a strong well-rounded roster that can handle multiple injuries or poor performance from other starters. Overall, having a deeper insight, gives managers many opportunities to take advantage of players who are overlooked, but can potentially have a breakout season. Concentrating on breakout prospects in different roles starting from quarterback, to running back, to wide receiver can enhance managers’ chances of a successful season. Staying updated, tracking injuries, tracking training camp news and focusing under the radar of players will be important for managing the season successfully and aiming for a title.
