As NFL training camps kick off, fantasy football enthusiasts must start strategizing for the 2025 season, with Jayden Daniels emerging as an unmissable quarterback option. Daniels’ impressive rookie campaign with the Washington Commanders, combined with key offseason additions, position him as a top-tier fantasy pick this year.
Jayden Daniels Set for a Breakout Second Season
Jayden Daniels made a significant impact during his first NFL season, guiding the Washington Commanders to the NFC Championship Game before their defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. At just 24 years old, Daniels showed remarkable composure and leadership, traits that fantasy owners should take note of heading into 2025. If Terry McLaurin returns to camp and secures a new deal, the Commanders’ passing attack will only become stronger.
This offseason, Daniels gained a potent weapon in Deebo Samuel, who joins Washington from the San Francisco 49ers. Samuel’s dynamic playmaking and gadget-style usage add a versatile threat that complicates defensive game plans. The Commanders also bolstered their receiver group with Michael Gallup, providing Daniels with additional targets to distribute the ball effectively.
During games where Daniels played more than half the snaps last season, he ranked second among quarterbacks by averaging 23.7 fantasy points per game. The addition of Samuel could enhance Daniels’ fantasy value even further, especially through creative plays like reverses. This makes Daniels not only a consistent performer but also a rising star in fantasy football.
Christian McCaffrey’s Opportunity to Shine Again
Following injuries that hampered his 2024 season, star running back Christian McCaffrey is entering 2025 with much to prove. With Deebo Samuel and Jordan Mason no longer part of the Commanders’ offense, McCaffrey is expected to take on a more significant role in both rushing and receiving.
McCaffrey’s dual-threat ability as a rusher and receiver makes him especially valuable in PPR (points per reception) leagues. His potential workload may increase sharply this season, placing him in a position to produce big fantasy numbers. Owners are advised to weigh McCaffrey as a high-upside pick despite his injury history, as he remains a game-changing offensive force.
Drake London Emerging as Atlanta’s Primary Receiving Threat
The Atlanta Falcons turned to Michael Penix Jr. as their full-time starting quarterback heading into Week 1, a development that favors wide receiver Drake London. When Penix Jr. started the final three games last season, London was targeted 39 times and managed 22 receptions for 352 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating strong chemistry between the pair.
With 12 of Atlanta’s games scheduled indoors, weather disruptions will be minimal, enabling the Falcons’ passing game to operate smoothly. This environment, combined with the Penix-London connection, makes London a highly desirable pick in the second round of fantasy drafts.
George Kittle as the Cornerstone of the 49ers’ Passing Attack
Following Deebo Samuel’s departure, the San Francisco 49ers will lean heavily on tight end George Kittle to maintain their offensive potency. Kittle concluded last year as the number one tight end in fantasy points per game, and with uncertainty surrounding the rest of San Francisco’s receiving corps, he could receive a league-leading number of targets among tight ends.
Provided he remains healthy, Kittle is a reliable pick expected to rank among the top three fantasy tight ends for the 2025 season, making him an attractive asset for teams seeking consistency at a volatile position.
Pittsburgh Steelers’ Defense Poised for a Strong Fantasy Season
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense hopes to build on a successful 2024, when they ranked fourth in fantasy scoring for defensive teams and tied for the league lead in turnovers. Key to their success will be quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ ability to minimize turnovers and maintain ball control.
Strengthening their secondary with additions like Darius Slay and Jalen Ramsey alongside rising star Joey Porter Jr. gives the Steelers a lockdown defense capable of creating costly turnovers. This bolstered unit is a promising choice for fantasy owners looking to bolster their defense with a team capable of game-changing plays.
Fantasy Football Outlook: What to Expect Next
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, selecting the right fantasy players is more crucial than ever. Jayden Daniels’ proven performance under pressure and the improved weapons at his disposal mark him as a top quarterback option. Meanwhile, Christian McCaffrey’s opportunity for a rebound raises his ceiling considerably, while emerging talents like Drake London and dependable veterans such as George Kittle offer additional reliable scoring opportunities.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defensive enhancements make them a strong candidate for fantasy owners looking to capitalize on turnovers and defensive scoring. Overall, the landscape of the upcoming season promises intense competition and exciting draft decisions.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How bad is Jayden Daniels rib injury?
A. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, referencing sources, reported that Daniels’ injury isn’t serious but needs treatment and will be observed this week.
Q. Are Jayden Daniels parents?
A. Everything About Jayden Daniels’ Parents, Javon Daniels and Regina Jackson. Quarterback Jayden Daniels, who plays in the NFL, always has strong support from his parents, Javon Daniels and Regina Jackson. They have been his biggest fans, cheering him on during important moments both in and out of his football career.
Q. Who is Jayden Daniels dad?
A. Daniels’ parents are Javon “Jay” Daniels, a former college football player for the Washington Huskies and Iowa State Cyclones in the late 1990s, and Regina Jackson, who is his business manager and became an NFLPA-certified agent in 2024. He has one older sister, Bianca.
Q. How did Jayden Daniels get cut?
A. As Daniels tried to turn the corner on Kliff Kingsbury’s read option play, he was hit hard by cornerback Zyon McCollum. The collision dropped Daniels to the ground with force. A short time later, he walked to the sidelines, taking off his helmet to show a cut beneath his right eye.