Fantasy Football Breakouts
This post is courtesy of Shawn Childs and Fantasy Sports on SI.
- QB1: ~375 points
- RB1: ~270 points
- RB2: ~210 points
- RB3: ~160 points
- RB4: ~110 points
- WR1: ~290 points
- WR2: ~225 points
- WR3: ~190 points
- WR4: ~160 points
- TE1: ~190 points
- TE2: ~120 points
Top-tier players significantly outscore the average at their position.
For example, over the past two seasons, CeeDee Lamb (405.2 points) and Ja’Marr Chase (403.0 points) averaged over 400 points in PPR, creating a 120-point edge over the median WR1. This demonstrates the massive impact elite performers can have compared to their draft peers.
Top Breakout Candidates for 2025
RB TreVeyon Henderson, New England Patriots
Henderson has surged up draft boards after a strong preseason with the Patriots. Initially a sixth-round pick (RB20) in early July high-stakes drafts, his ADP has climbed to the third round (pick 25–47, ADP 35) over the last three days, ranking him as RB14. His rising cost demands a 2024 Bucky Irving-like breakout (Irving was a 10th-round steal last year). Henderson’s value lies in home leagues where he may still be undervalued, but his ceiling depends on New England significantly increasing his touches.
WR Emeka Egbuka, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Drafted 19th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Egbuka joined a potent Tampa Bay offense but faced a crowded depth chart with Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Jalen McMillan. In early July, he was the WR45 with an eighth-round ADP, offering excellent value. Recent injuries—Godwin’s delayed ankle recovery and McMillan’s four-game absence due to a neck injury—have elevated Egbuka to WR33 (ADP 60, minimum pick 50). With WR2-level snaps and targets, he has room to outperform his draft position significantly.
WR Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers
The trade of Deebo Samuel, coupled with Jauan Jennings’ calf issue and Brandon Aiyuk’s knee surgery recovery, has opened the door for Pearsall. As San Francisco’s top-drafted receiver, he carries a mid-tier WR3 price tag. Over the past six weeks, his ADP has risen five spots, just ahead of Egbuka. Despite injury risks and inconsistent 2024 performances (e.g., 8/141/1, 6/69/1), Pearsall’s opportunity makes him a breakout candidate.
WR Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears
Odunze, a sixth-round pick in July (ADP 50–69), has slipped behind Pearsall, Egbuka, and Hunter in recent drafts (ADP 66, range 59–76). His 2024 stats (54/734/3) and continuity with QB Caleb Williams give him a solid foundation. Chicago’s new offensive scheme showed promise in the preseason, but multiple receiving options (e.g., DJ Moore, Keenan Allen) could cap his ceiling.
Still, Odunze’s potential suggests a future 100/1,500/10 season.
WR Travis Hunter, Jacksonville Jaguars
Hunter, a Heisman Trophy winner (96/1,258/15 in 2024), brings unmatched talent and versatility, playing both receiver and cornerback. His ADP (WR33–34) has remained steady, reflecting cautious optimism. Despite a quiet preseason (2/9/0 in one game, sidelined by a minor injury in another), Hunter is Jacksonville’s clear No. 2 option. The new coaching staff, led by Tampa Bay’s former offensive coordinator, sets him up for success. His elite route-running, vision, and playmaking ability point to a high-volume NFL career akin to Antonio Brown.
Breakout Tote Board
- TreVeyon Henderson: Talented but no longer a value due to his rising ADP. Consider Omarion Henderson as a cheaper alternative.
- Emeka Egbuka: Rising ADP reflects growing target share, but Godwin’s return could limit his ceiling.
- Ricky Pearsall: Prime opportunity, but injury concerns and consistency are risks.
- Rome Odunze: Strong candidate for WR2 production, but Chicago’s crowded receiving corps may cap his output.
Check out FullTime Fantasy’s choice for Breakout Player of the Year. Hint: he’s mentioned in this piece.
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