Fantasy football drafts are crucial for assembling a competitive roster, particularly in a 12-team league. With the 2025 season approaching, players and analysts are identifying key targets to enhance their chances of success. This guide provides a round-by-round overview of optimal picks and strategies to help fantasy managers navigate the draft effectively.
Round One: Prioritize Top Talent
In the first round, the goal is to secure the best available player, often a top-tier wide receiver or running back. If you have a top-two pick, consider selecting Bijan Robinson, who stands out as a premier choice. His ability to outperform other running backs, such as Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey, is notable given their respective concerns around workload and health. For those drafting mid-round, elite wide receivers like Justin Jefferson or CeeDee Lamb should be the focus to establish a strong foundation.
Round Two: Solidify the Backfield
In the second round, the emphasis shifts to acquiring a reliable running back. Depending on draft position, options include Jonathan Taylor, Josh Jacobs, and Kyren Williams. Taylor has shown consistent performance despite not reaching the heights of his breakout season in 2021. Last season, he ranked seventh among running backs in points per game, highlighting his capability as a cornerstone player.
As the draft progresses, it’s essential to remain adaptable. For instance, if a top-tier receiver was picked in the first round, targeting a strong back in the second can create a balanced roster.
Round Three: Target a Top Tight End
By the third round, the landscape changes as managers start to eye tight ends. Trey McBride, who excelled as the Cardinals’ starting tight end, is a strong candidate. He averaged 15.4 fantasy points per game last season, indicating his potential for a significant role in the coming year. With tight ends often being a scarce resource, securing McBride or other top options like Brock Bowers can provide a competitive advantage.
If opting for a receiver or running back instead, consider James Cook or Tyreek Hill as viable alternatives, ensuring depth across positions.
Round Four: Elite Quarterback Options
This year’s draft presents a unique opportunity to select an elite quarterback in the fourth round. Players such as Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Jayden Daniels stand out as top picks. Each offers significant rushing contributions, enhancing their fantasy point potential. Among these, Hurts is likely to be available and serves as an excellent choice if you haven’t selected a quarterback yet.
In this round, if a quarterback is not chosen, consider running back Kenneth Walker III or tight end George Kittle, who consistently ranks among the top scorers in his position.
Rounds Five to Eight: Build Depth Wisely
As the draft enters the middle rounds, it becomes crucial to fill out your roster with dependable players. In round five, James Conner emerges as a solid option despite concerns about his age. His consistent performance over the past few seasons, including at least 1,080 yards and eight touchdowns each year, makes him a reliable pick.
In rounds six to eight, begin targeting younger players with upside. TreVeyon Henderson stands out as a rookie who could seize a significant role in the Patriots’ offense. Similarly, established veterans like Jakobi Meyers and emerging talents such as Jaylen Waddle remain valuable assets.
The depth of talent at wide receiver in these rounds allows for flexibility, as options like Chris Olave may still be available, providing further opportunities to bolster your lineup.
Rounds Nine to Twelve: Seek High-Upside Players
By the time the draft reaches the later rounds, it’s time to take calculated risks on players with breakout potential. In round nine, Michael Pittman Jr. could be an intriguing pick, especially if the quarterback situation improves in Indianapolis. Despite a challenging previous season, he has demonstrated the ability to be a top-20 fantasy receiver in the past.
In round ten, rookies like Colston Loveland present high-upside options. As a recent first-round pick, Loveland offers statistical promise that could pay dividends.
Finally, in rounds 11 and 12, consider targeting rookie wide receivers such as Jayden Higgins or Keon Coleman, both of whom have shown potential for breakout performances in their sophomore seasons.
In summary, the pathway to a successful 2025 fantasy football season lies in strategic drafting, focusing on players with proven performance and potential upside. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive approach to navigating a 12-team league draft. The key is to remain adaptable while keeping an eye on value throughout the selection process, ensuring a competitive roster is assembled for the upcoming season.
