NFL insider Mike Clay participated in ESPN’s 10-team mock draft on Wednesday, taking the second overall pick in a snake draft format. This gave him an advantageous position with picks spaced closely between the first and second rounds, allowing him to assemble promising pairings for his fantasy football roster. Clay’s choices highlight key players projected to excel in the Bijan Robinson fantasy football 2025 landscape.
Bijan Robinson Secured as a Top Fantasy Running Back
With the second overall selection, Clay chose Bijan Robinson, widely regarded as the leading running back for the 2025 fantasy season. Robinson’s average draft position (ADP), according to Fantasy Pros, aligns perfectly with Clay’s pick at second overall, just behind Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals. This decision reflects a strong, reliable foundation for any fantasy lineup.
Value Picks Beyond the First Round
In the second round, Clay demonstrated his savvy by selecting wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. late in the round with the 19th overall pick, despite Thomas Jr.’s average ADP being 14. This late second-round choice provided notable value for Clay’s team. Continuing this trend, Clay picked Josh Jacobs, ranked as the tenth-best running back, early in the third round at 22nd overall, which was again below Jacobs’s typical ADP of 18, securing a starting-caliber running back without overspending.
Strengthening the Receiving Corps with Smart Later Picks
Clay further bolstered his team by targeting top receivers available in the mid rounds. Selecting Jaxon Smith-Njigba at 39th overall was a clear win; Smith-Njigba’s ADP was 30, and he ranked as WR13 by Fantasy Pros, though Clay managed to pick him as WR16. Shortly after, at 42nd overall, Clay also added Marvin Harrison Jr., a young receiver poised for a breakout season with the Arizona Cardinals. Harrison Jr.’s ADP of 39 gave Clay yet another value pick, emphasizing his method of securing quality starters beyond their expected draft positions.
Implications and Outlook for Fantasy Teams
Mike Clay’s mock draft selections illustrate how careful targeting and timing in draft rounds can build a balanced and high-upside fantasy team for 2025. Prioritizing Bijan Robinson as a cornerstone while capturing multiple value picks like Brian Thomas Jr., Josh Jacobs, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Marvin Harrison Jr. could give fantasy managers a competitive edge. This approach underscores the importance of identifying players whose potential exceeds their draft cost, making Clay’s strategy a model for fantasy football enthusiasts preparing for the upcoming season.