Top 5 NFL Rookies to Target in Fantasy Football for 2025
These future stars could make an immediate impact on your roster.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers are already digging into draft prep - and one of the biggest cheat-code categories to exploit each year is the rookie class. While veterans provide stability, it's the rookies who often deliver unexpected value and breakout potential.
We've scanned the college ranks and draft boards to highlight five rookies who could step into fantasy relevance right away. Whether you're in a redraft league or building a dynasty squad, these players deserve your attention.
1. Ashton Jeanty – RB, Boise State
2024 Stats: 2,601 rushing yards, 29 rushing TDs; 23 receptions, 138 receiving yards, 1 receiving TD
After leading the FBS in rushing yards and ranking second in touchdowns, Jeanty is the definition of a workhorse. His powerful downhill style combined with solid hands out of the backfield make him an attractive three-down back at the next level.
Fantasy Outlook: If he lands on a team with a need at running back, Jeanty could become a sneaky RB2 right out of the gate - with RB1 upside if he dominates goal-line work.
2. Tetairoa McMillan – WR, Arizona
2024 Stats: 84 receptions, 1,319 receiving yards, 8 TDs
Career Stats: 213 receptions, 3,423 yards, 26 TDs
At 6'5", McMillan was a consistent force for Arizona. He uses his size to win contested catches and has the polish to run a full route tree. He's as NFL-ready as they come and could become a quarterback's best friend in the red zone.
Fantasy Outlook: If he's paired with a team lacking a dominant WR1, McMillan's touchdown upside could make him an early-season waiver wire gem - or even a late-round steal in deeper leagues.
3. Travis Hunter – WR/CB, Colorado
2024 Stats: 92 receptions, 1,152 receiving yards, 14 TDs
Also recorded 4 interceptions as a defensive back
Travis Hunter is one of the most unique prospects in recent memory. A true two-way player at Colorado, Hunter shined on both sides of the ball - but it's his offensive production that will get fantasy managers drooling.
Fantasy Outlook: If he transitions full-time to wide receiver in the NFL, his elite athleticism and playmaking ability could lead to massive boom weeks. He's a high-risk, high-reward fantasy stash worth monitoring closely during the preseason.
4. Omarion Hampton – RB, North Carolina
2024 Stats: 1,660 rushing yards, 15 rushing TDs
Hampton combines power and vision to rack up yards after contact, and he carried the Tar Heels' offense in 2024. He's the kind of runner who can wear down a defense - and pile up fantasy points in the second half of games.
Fantasy Outlook: If drafted into a committee, he may be a wait-and-see stash. But in the right system, he's an early-down bruiser with top-20 RB potential.
5. Nick Nash – WR, San Jose State
2024 Stats: Led FBS in receptions and receiving TDs
A converted quarterback, Nash emerged as the FBS leader in catches and touchdowns in 2024. His understanding of defenses and crisp route-running made him a nightmare for secondaries. Don't let the small-school tag fool you - this guy can play.
Fantasy Outlook: Nash is the perfect sleeper candidate. If he earns a slot or WR2 role in training camp, expect a steady stream of targets and PPR gold, especially in deeper formats.
Final Takeaway
Rookies bring risk, but they also bring the kind of upside that wins championships. Keep these five names on your radar throughout training camp and the preseason. If they get the right opportunities, they could be fantasy football difference-makers in 2025.
Bookmark this list. When your league-mates are scrambling to fill bye-week holes, you'll already have the next breakout star sitting on your bench.
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