From adding second-year players to taking a look at rookies expecting a breakout, there are sleepers all over draft boards in 2025. Let’s dive into six sleepers from our staff that you need to know this year!
Luther Burden III, WR, Chicago Bears
Current Ranking: WR 53 – 134 overall according to Blitz Rankings
Luther Burden III, a second-round NFL Draft pick by the Chicago Bears, possesses first-round talent and is poised to shine in 2025. Under new head coach Ben Johnson, whose Detroit offense maximized slot receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Burden’s skill set is explosive in the slot yet versatile enough for outside duties, which fits perfectly. Despite competing with DJ Moore and Rome Odunze, Burden’s elite route-running and playmaking ability could see him ascend to WR2 or even WR1 by season’s end. With Caleb Williams entering Year 2, the Bears’ passing game should take a leap, amplifying Burden’s opportunities. At his late-round ADP, he’s a low-risk, high-reward pick with star potential, while also allowing his rookie campaign to be eased into rather than putting the weight directly on his shoulders.
Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers
Current Ranking: QB22 – 146 overall according to Blitz Rankings
Bryce Young, the Panthers’ quarterback, is a prime sleeper after showing flashes of brilliance in 2024. From Week 8 onward, he averaged 18.6 fantasy points per game, including a 27.36-point outburst, driven by his dual-threat ability (220+ rushing yards in his last 10 games). The addition of rookie Tetairoa McMillan bolsters Carolina’s passing attack, giving Young a legitimate weapon. With a late-round ADP or even waiver wire availability, Young offers significant upside in a make-or-break Year 3. His mobility provides a safe floor, making him an ideal late-round QB stash for managers punting the position. Bryce has a ceiling that of a top-10 talent, and this year should be his coming-out party behind the newly reformed Canales offense.
Mason Taylor, TE, New York Jets
Current Ranking: WR26 – 210 overall according to Blitz Rankings
Rookie tight end Mason Taylor is a deep sleeper with breakout potential in the Jets’ offense. Operating under a new offensive coordinator from the Ben Johnson coaching tree, Taylor benefits from a scheme that produced Sam LaPorta’s stellar rookie season, while also becoming a crucial blocker in the run game, allowing his snap count to increase exponentially. At 21 years old, Taylor’s athleticism, blocking prowess, and NFL pedigree (related to Jason Taylor) make him a long-term asset. With a thin receiving corps beyond Garrett Wilson, Taylor could command a high target share, especially in a pass-heavy system. His late-round ADP makes him a low-cost flier at a position where rookie tight ends are increasingly impactful.
Travis Kelce, TE, Kansas City Chiefs
Current Ranking: TE6 – 72 overall according to Blitz Rankings
Travis Kelce, potentially in his final NFL season, is a steal at his 2025 ADP. Despite a “down” 2024, Kelce still delivered solid tight end production, and his current draft cost reflects his floor rather than his ceiling. Paired with Patrick Mahomes in Andy Reid’s high-octane offense, Kelce remains a red-zone magnet with unmatched chemistry. The return of Rashee Rice, a healthy Hollywood Brown, and rookie Xavier Worthy should stretch defenses, creating more space for Kelce. At the end of the sixth or early seventh round, Kelce offers elite upside with a proven track record, making him a home-run pick – even if you’re not pairing him with now “falling” QB Patrick Mahomes.
Alvin Kamara, RB, New Orleans Saints
Current Ranking: RB 17 – 46 overall according to Blitz Rankings
Alvin Kamara remains a PPR powerhouse, making him a sleeper with RB1 potential in 2025. In 2024, he notched 68 receptions in 14 games despite inconsistent quarterback play. New offensive coordinator Kellen Moore has emphasized Kamara’s role as a receiving back, providing a safety valve for young QBs like Jake Haener or Spencer Rattler. Kamara’s 70 %+ snap share, combined with his touchdown upside (highlighted by his six-TD game in 2020), ensures a high floor and ceiling. Even with limited rushing production, his 5–6 weekly receptions salvage any game, making him a safe yet explosive mid-round pick, even with the young depth at RB in New Orleans.
Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers
Current Ranking: WR48 – 111 overall according to Blitz Rankings
Ricky Pearsall, a first-round pick by the 49ers, is a high-upside sleeper for 2025. Despite a gunshot wound in 2024, he still managed 400 yards, including an 8-for-10, 141-yard, one-TD performance. With Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings potentially missing time due to injuries, Pearsall has a clear path to a significant role in Kyle Shanahan’s potent offense. Brock Purdy’s pinpoint accuracy ensures Pearsall gets catchable targets, and his size and leaping ability make him a red-zone threat. At a late-round ADP, Pearsall offers WR1 upside in a crowded but injury-prone receiving corps, with long-term dynasty appeal. Pearsall can quickly become WR1, or flourish as a WR2, either way he’s a massive opportunity early in the season for rebuilding teams.
