As August begins, fantasy football enthusiasts ramp up their preparations for the 2025 drafts. The preseason presents vital opportunities to observe key NFL players and situations that could influence draft strategies. One of the spotlight figures this year is Caleb Williams, whose performance and role during the NFL preseason could significantly impact fantasy evaluations.
Identifying Key Players and Competition During the NFL Preseason
Each NFL preseason raises challenges in distinguishing meaningful performance from mere noise. Fantasy managers must avoid overreacting to routine training camp struggles like interceptions or dropped passes, as these often occur within controlled drills rather than game-like scenarios. Coaches tend to emphasize positives publicly, making negative comments more noteworthy in evaluating true concerns. Consequently, rankings should remain consistent rather than changing daily based on practice reports.
Despite these cautions, the preseason holds real significance due to numerous positional battles that will shape team depth charts with clear implications for fantasy value. Playing time for starters is variable: some teams abide by the principle of resting starters entirely, while others offer limited snaps. This means fantasy managers will need to focus on the situational players receiving substantial opportunities, as these glimpses often reveal who could emerge as sleepers or breakout candidates heading into the regular season.
Quarterbacks Poised to Shape Fantasy Outlooks in the Preseason
Caleb Williams’ Preseason Prospects with the Chicago Bears
In his rookie preseason, Caleb Williams completed 10 of 20 throws for 170 yards and added a rushing touchdown, stirring optimism among fantasy owners about his future potential. However, last season’s promising preseason flashes did not translate seamlessly into regular-season success. This year, under new head coach Ben Johnson, Williams’ preseason presence remains uncertain. Johnson, influenced by Dan Campbell’s philosophy of resting starters in preseason, may limit Williams’ game reps.
If Williams takes the field, the preseason will be less about flashy stats and more about assessing his grasp of Johnson’s system and decision-making under game conditions. Any evidence of growth will be valuable in projecting whether Williams can elevate his performance this upcoming season.
J.J. McCarthy and Minnesota Vikings’ Quarterback Situation
J.J. McCarthy, after missing his rookie year with a torn meniscus, could see more extended preseason action as Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell evaluates his new franchise quarterback. McCarthy is a mid-range QB2 fantasy pick with a high ceiling but also considerable uncertainty, having never attempted a regular-season NFL pass.
The Vikings’ passing game’s dynamism, anchored by Justin Jefferson, depends heavily on how McCarthy performs during camp and preseason action. Positive reports could cement Jefferson’s status as a top overall pick, while struggles might push him down draft boards. Therefore, McCarthy’s preseason performance will be closely monitored for its ripple effect on fantasy stock.
Indianapolis Colts’ Quarterback Battle: Anthony Richardson vs. Daniel Jones
The Colts’ quarterback contest features contrasting prospects with Anthony Richardson’s exceptional rushing upside and Daniel Jones’ more reliable passing ability. Richardson’s fantasy draft value will rise sharply if he wins the starter role but is likely capped due to injury risk and passing limitations. His inconsistency could lead to a volatile fantasy presence, reminiscent of Justin Fields’ roller-coaster season.
Jones, while less dynamic, could substantially boost the performances of Colts receivers like Josh Downs, Michael Pittman Jr., and Tyler Warren, all of whom have seen improved fantasy returns with him under center. Given these stakes, tracking how each quarterback fares in preseason reps is essential for draft decisions.
Jaxson Dart’s Role with the New York Giants
Although Russell Wilson is expected to start Week 1 for the Giants, his durability raises doubts about his availability throughout the season. Rookie Jaxson Dart, likely to see limited preseason action mostly against second-string defenses, represents a potential late-season alternative whose performance could influence Malik Nabers’ fantasy outlook.
Competence displayed by Dart in these appearances would reduce concerns about Nabers losing quarterback support, while poor outings might suggest caution in drafting Nabers ahead of other top receivers.
Running Backs to Watch as the NFL Preseason Unfolds
Isiah Pacheco and the Chief’s Backfield Dynamics
Andy Reid’s approach to preseason starter usage means core players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce will see limited snaps, but running back Isiah Pacheco’s situation is distinct. Last year, Pacheco’s broken leg sidelined him early, and his diminished form upon return led Reid to favor Kareem Hunt late in the season and playoffs.
The Chiefs have since re-signed Hunt, added Elijah Mitchell, and drafted Brashard Smith, creating an unsettled backfield where Pacheco must prove his pre-injury explosiveness to maintain a lead role. Given his RB25 average draft position (ADP), a return to form would offer tremendous value, whereas failure to stand out could signify a committee approach detrimental to fantasy managers.
Houston Texans’ Running Back Competition: Nick Chubb and Woody Marks
Joe Mixon’s injury concerns and potential decline cast doubt on his fantasy viability. Nick Chubb, newly with the Texans, struggled last season with a knee injury and reduced explosiveness, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry before a season-ending foot fracture. While Chubb traditionally avoids preseason action, his status as a new team member might afford him snaps worth monitoring.
Rookie Woody Marks, a seasoned pass-catcher from USC with 261 receptions over 57 college games, joins the Texans with an opportunity to claim the primary passing-down back role. His preseason usage, especially on passing downs and in hurry-up situations, will shed light on his future role and impact if Mixon’s status limits his availability.
“USC’s Woody Marks is probably the best RB in the #NFLDraft2025 class you haven’t seen play. He’s BUILT for today’s dual-backfield NFL game. Explosive rusher with 261 career collegiate receptions. Don’t sleep.” —Ray G
New York Giants’ Backfield Competition: Cam Skattebo vs. Tyrone Tracy Jr.
Brian Daboll’s Giants prefer to rest starters in the preseason, but rookie running back Cam Skattebo is expected to see game action while Tyone Tracy Jr. remains the anticipated lead back. Tracy’s proven receiving ability offers stability, but Skattebo’s superior draft capital and collegiate productivity position him as a high-upside threat in a likely split backfield scenario.
The preseason will not settle the battle entirely but will provide crucial insight into who commands a bigger share of touches, potentially influencing fantasy value given the unclear depth chart.
Jacksonville Jaguars’ Uncertain Running Back Situation
The Jaguars’ backfield includes incumbents Travis Etienne Jr. and Tank Bigsby, plus rookie fourth-round pick Bhayshul Tuten. A new coaching staff under Liam Coen suggests a meritocratic approach that could reshape playing time distribution.
Bigsby’s two-down role limits upside, while Etienne’s struggles last season saw Bigsby overtake him as lead carrier. The potential for a three-back committee or an emerging starter makes preseason usage patterns critical for fantasy forecasts, especially as current ADPs for all three remain suppressed amid uncertainty.
Competitiveness and Depth in the Dallas Cowboys Backfield
The Cowboys maintain one of the most unsettled running back groups, newly stocked with veterans Javonte Williams, Miles Sanders, and rookie Jaydon Blue. Despite their respective NFL experience and potential upside, none is a clear-cut starter, and reports of Blue’s questionable work ethic add intrigue to this crowded backfield.
Preseason play should clarify who earns the majority of touches, as even a marginal lead back could offer RB2 fantasy value if given enough carries in the offense.
Cleveland Browns’ Backfield Uncertainties Impact Rookie Dylan Sampson
The Browns face a difficult situation after early off-field issues with rookie Quinshon Judkins, who now risks missing significant camp time or even team inclusion. This scenario opens a door for fellow fourth-round rookie Dylan Sampson to work prominently with first-team reps, sharing the backfield with <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/tag/jerome-ford/”>Jerome Ford.
The preseason will be an important testing ground for Sampson’s promise and may influence fantasy preferences between him and Ford, the latter having a track record of competent fill-in play for Nick Chubb.
Wide Receivers to Follow in the 2025 Preseason
Rashee Rice’s Recovery and Role with the Kansas City Chiefs
Rashee Rice returns from a torn LCL and an impending suspension, but is expected to participate in limited preseason action. Kansas City’s routine for playing starters involves short bursts early in the preseason, so Rice’s snaps will likely be modest.
Fantasy owners primarily seek confirmation that Rice is fully healthy rather than production metrics, as his physical status will greatly influence his usability once the suspension expires.
Jacksonville’s Travis Hunter and His Two-Way Usage
Travis Hunter presents a unique case as a rookie contributing both offensively and defensively for the Jaguars. His snap distribution in preseason games will fluctuate as coaches seek to assess him across both roles rather than simulate a typical game flow.
Fantasy stakeholders will focus on Hunter’s route running, overall skill display, and how much he participates in offensive snaps, as this impacts his draft positioning and projected season value.
Emerging Targets for the Houston Texans: Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel
The Texans added depth at wide receiver with preseason draftee prospects Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, alongside offseason acquisition Christian Kirk. While Nico Collins remains C.J. Stroud’s primary target, the competition behind him is open.
Higgins’ higher draft selection gives him an edge for early WR3 snaps, and strong preseason showing could shift roles, potentially affecting Kirk’s fantasy relevance and the broader receiver hierarchy.
Los Angeles Chargers Rookie Wideout Tre Harris’ Opportunity
Justin Herbert is unlikely to see preseason action, but rookie wide receiver Tre Harris is expected to play. While Ladd McConkey firmly holds the WR1 role, the WR2 spot remains contested following Quentin Johnston’s underwhelming first two seasons.
Harris’ preseason performance will factor significantly into whether he can supplant Johnston and earn a larger share of targets during the regular season.
Notable Players Likely Absent from NFL Preseason Games
Tyreek Hill’s Absence and Fantasy Implications
Coming off a disappointing season affected by wrist and quarterback injuries, Tyreek Hill’s preseason participation is improbable. Whether his recent struggles are a temporary setback or a sign of decline remains unresolved, and without preseason data, managers must rely on camp updates to gauge his status.
Chris Godwin’s Return Timeline with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Chris Godwin is progressing from multiple ankle surgeries, possibly returning by Week 1, but preseason game participation seems unlikely. His health status will be crucial for shaping not only his fantasy value but also that of emerging teammates like Emeka Egbuka.
Stefon Diggs’ Recovery and Expected Rest in New England
Stefon Diggs has rebounded well from an ACL injury, aiming for a Week 1 return. However, new Patriots coach Mike Vrabel rarely fields veterans in preseason games, making Diggs’ real-game action unlikely before the regular season. Fantasy owners will monitor training camp reports closely for updates.