As the 2025 NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers are on the lookout for players who can rebound from disappointing 2024 campaigns. Injuries, inconsistent performances, or team struggles may have derailed their previous seasons, but a fresh start brings renewed optimism. Here are five skill-position players primed for a bounce-back season in 2025, based on their talent, situation, and potential for redemption.
Christian McCaffrey (RB) San Francisco 49ers
2024: RB69
Christian McCaffrey, the fantasy football juggernaut of recent years, had a 2024 season to forget. An Achilles injury limited him to just four games, resulting in a dismal RB69 finish. However, when healthy, McCaffrey has proven he’s capable of being the RB1 and even the overall top fantasy player. The San Francisco 49ers’ offense, despite a disappointing 2024, returns key pieces like quarterback Brock Purdy and tight end George Kittle. With Deebo Samuel no longer in the mix, McCaffrey remains the focal point of the offense. Fully healthy (as we hope), he’s poised to dominate once again. His current ADP in the early second round feels like a steal for a player with his upside. If McCaffrey stays on the field, he’s a lock for top-tier production week in and week out.
Kenneth Walker (RB) Seattle Seahawks
2024: RB27
Kenneth Walker’s 2024 season was marred by injuries, as he played only 11 games and finished as the RB27. Despite the limited action, he averaged an impressive 16.5 fantasy points per game, showcasing his explosive potential when healthy. The Seattle Seahawks’ offense is trending upward for 2025, bolstered by the signing of quarterback Sam Darnold and veteran receivers. Walker’s ability to produce big plays makes him a critical asset in the backfield. Injuries are unpredictable in the NFL, but Walker’s talent and role as the catalyst of Seattle’s rushing attack make him a prime bounce-back candidate. Don’t shy away from drafting him, as his production could vault him into the upper echelons of fantasy running backs.
Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR) Arizona Cardinals
2024: WR30
Marvin Harrison Jr. entered the 2024 season with sky-high expectations but struggled to find consistency with quarterback Kyler Murray, finishing as a mid-tier wide receiver despite flashes of brilliance. He posted one or two WR1 performances but couldn’t sustain that level of production. Overshadowed by rookies like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., Harrison’s hype cooled, with his current ADP sitting at 44. However, his elite skill set and second-place ranking in air yards per catch signal his big-play potential. Now in his second year with Murray, Harrison is primed to develop better chemistry and capitalize on the Cardinals’ high-octane offense. Don’t sleep on him—he’s still the team’s WR1 and could deliver consistent fantasy points in 2025.
Nico Collins (WR) Houston Texans
2024: WR23
Nico Collins might seem like an odd choice for a bounce-back candidate given his first-round ADP, but his 2024 season was hindered by injuries, leading to a WR23 finish. Despite missing a chunk of the year, he averaged an impressive 17.6 fantasy points per game in PPR formats, a mark few others in his range could match. Paired with quarterback C.J. Stroud and supported by a revamped offensive line, Collins is the centerpiece of Houston’s explosive passing attack. His talent and situation suggest he’ll never again finish as low as WR23. Expect Collins to return to top-tier status, delivering the consistent, high-end production fantasy managers covet from a first-round pick.
Evan Engram (TE) Denver Broncos
2024: TE33
Evan Engram’s move to the Denver Broncos sets the stage for a fantasy resurgence in 2025. After posting TE5 and TE2 finishes in 2022 and 2023 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Engram’s 2024 season was cut short by injuries, limiting him to nine games and a TE33 finish. Now in Denver, he joins an offense led by head coach Sean Payton and rookie sensation quarterback Bo Nix. Engram’s versatility as a pass-catching tight end makes him a perfect fit for Payton’s scheme. His current ADP as the seventh tight end off the board feels too low for a player with his track record. Target Engram in the later rounds, as he’s poised to reclaim a top-five spot among fantasy tight ends.
Final Thoughts
These five players, Christian McCaffrey, Kenneth Walker, Marvin Harrison Jr., Nico Collins, and Evan Engram, offer tremendous upside for fantasy managers willing to bet on their redemption. Whether it’s overcoming injuries or finding consistency in new or evolving roles, each has the talent and opportunity to exceed expectations in 2025. Keep an eye on their ADPs as the season nears, and don’t hesitate to snag them for your fantasy roster. Who are your bounce-back candidates for the upcoming season? Share your thoughts, and let’s get ready for a thrilling fantasy football year!
