As the 2025 fantasy football season draws near during the ongoing NFL offseason, team managers are gearing up to finalize their draft boards. Identifying top-tier players early is crucial, and several standout talents present compelling options for those with top draft picks this year. Among these, the increasing value of CeeDee Lamb makes him a notable target for fantasy enthusiasts.

Top fantasy football picks to consider for 2025 drafts

Jahmyr Gibbs has established himself as a reliable performer, ranking as the RB2 and RB10 in fantasy football over his first two seasons with the Detroit Lions. He has achieved this despite sharing snaps with David Montgomery, highlighting his significant potential. The main uncertainty surrounding Gibbs this upcoming season involves the Lions’ new offensive coordinator, whose system may influence how heavily Gibbs is utilized.

CeeDee Lamb rose to WR8 last season, even while Dak Prescott spent much of the year sidelined with injury. With Prescott expected to return fully by Week 1 for the Dallas Cowboys, Lamb’s fantasy value is poised to climb again. When Prescott was previously healthy, Lamb led the NFL’s wide receivers with 135 catches and claimed the WR1 spot overall, underscoring his high ceiling for 2025.

Bijan Robinson has been a powerhouse with the Atlanta Falcons, finishing ranked as RB9 and RB4 in his first two seasons. His exceptional talent as one of the premier receiving backs in the NFL enhances his fantasy stock considerably. Robinson’s versatility and upside make him a prime candidate to finish as the top overall player in fantasy leagues this year.

Ja’Marr Chase led the NFL last season by securing the rare receiving triple crown—leading in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Despite sharing target volume with Tee Higgins and other teammates, Chase remains a dominant offensive weapon for the Cincinnati Bengals. His continued strong connection with quarterback Joe Burrow bodes well for maintaining elite production in 2025.

Saquon Barkley had a breakout season in his first year with the Philadelphia Eagles after leaving the New York Giants. Benefiting from playing behind one of the league’s best offensive lines, Barkley amassed over 2,000 rushing yards. Given the stability of his environment and overall performance, he stands as one of the most reliable and valuable selections in early 2025 fantasy football drafts.

Why these players are crucial picks for your fantasy strategy

These five players combine consistency, high ceilings, and situational advantages making them standout choices for early-draft targets. Their performances last season and their expected roles in 2025 suggest they will heavily influence fantasy outcomes, rewarding managers who secure them. Particularly, CeeDee Lamb’s potential resurgence alongside a healthy Dak Prescott highlights the dynamic interplay of player health and team context in fantasy valuations.

As managers prepare for their drafts, monitoring factors like coaching changes, quarterback health, and team offensive lines will be key to capitalizing on these players‘ talents. Targeting these core athletes could provide a solid foundation for a championship-contending fantasy roster.