The 2025 NFL Draft is finally here. Over three days, future fantasy football stars will be selected, and depth charts will be rapidly reshaped. Which team needs could alter draft plans? Let’s get the pesky defensive positions and offensive line talk out of the way — this article is all about the positions that matter most for fantasy football: the skill positions.
Which direction will AFC teams lean, and what are their most significant needs? I also identify realistic players and picks that match up just right for team needs and potential fantasy football success.
AFC EAST
Buffalo Bills
Picks: 30, 56, 62, 109, 132, 169, 170, 173, 177, 206
Buffalo has used an early pick on a skill-position player in three consecutive drafts: James Cook in the second round in 2022, Dalton Kincaid in the first round in 2023, and Keon Coleman early in the second round in 2024. They signed Josh Palmer this offseason and extended Khalil Shakir, but Buffalo could still add another wide receiver. Running back seems settled for now, but keep an eye on the Cook contract situation — both sides appear far apart. The Bills have Ray Davis and pass-catching specialist Ty Johnson rostered, but with the depth and quality of the RB class, they could make a surprise pick for James Cook’s potential long-term replacement.
Projected Pick: Devin Neal RB, Kansas with the 132nd Pick
The James Cook murky contract situation and the Bills' sheer number of draft picks indicate that they could be drafting a running back. Neal ran a somewhat disappointing 4.58 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, and that should push him to Day Three. But few players in this class have as large a sample size of production (53 career rushing touchdowns, three straight seasons with 1000+ rushing yards). If there was a Cook holdout — or shock trade — Neal could combine with Davis and Johnson to form a capable committee.
Miami Dolphins
Picks: 13, 48, 98, 116, 135, 150, 155, 224, 231, 253
Miami is a wildcard. Running back seems set with De’Von Achane emerging as a star and 2024 fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright expected to take on a more significant role as his backup. The Dolphins could target a power back, but that selection would likely occur on Day 3.
Tyreek Hill will turn 31 this season, and his play regressed significantly last year. Add in offseason issues, and Miami moving on from Hill is a distinct possibility — one the team is most likely considering, whether through a trade or an outright release. If Miami were to cut Hill, it would most likely take place after June 1, when the cap hit would be reduced. Adding Hill’s potential replacement as early as the 13th overall pick is not out of the question.
Opposite Hill, Jaylen Waddle signed a new contract last offseason. Miami also has Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Malik Washington. Tight end is also a settled position, with Jonnu Smith entrenching himself as the most productive player the team has had at the position by a wide margin during the Mike McDaniel era.
The Dolphins have 10 picks to work with.
Projected Pick: Jaylin Noel WR, Iowa State with the 48th Pick
Noel has speed and the ability to play the slot with the flexibility to play outside. He is versatile and has the potential to not only be a significant part of the passing game, but also to help Miami’s return game.
Hey, it could happen: Matthew Golden WR, Texas with the 13th Pick
Miami can draft its Hill successor with its first-round pick. Golden ran a blazing 4.29 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and has the speed McDaniel covets. This would be a great stylistic fit for Miami and a dream landing spot for Golden.
New England Patriots
Picks: 4, 38, 69, 77, 106, 144, 171, 220, 238
New England secured its long-term answer at quarterback with the selection of Drake Maye in last year’s NFL Draft. They also hired Mike Vrabel as head coach and brought back longtime Patriots assistant Josh McDaniels as their offensive coordinator. The 2025 NFL Draft will likely focus heavily on the offensive line, but there is still a pressing need for skill-position talent to build around Maye.
Stefon Diggs was signed in free agency, but it would be surprising if New England didn’t draft at least one wide receiver. The Patriots have multiple wide receivers under contract, including Demario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, as well as 2024 picks Javon Baker and Ja'Lynn Polk, but none of these players look like potential high-target players. Hunter Henry does just enough at tight end to be on the fantasy radar.
Rhamondre Stevenson received a contract extension last year but remains a replacement-level talent, having finished as the RB27 in fantasy points per game in back-to-back seasons.
This offense will look very different after the draft.
Projected Pick: Luther Burden WR, Missouri with the 38th Pick
If Burden starts to slide, he will be a serious consideration for New England in the second round. He could become Maye’s “easy button” target early on in his career, and step right into the slot. Burden could become the Patriots' WR1. Athletically, Burden stood out at the NFL Combine. While second-round draft capital would be a slight disappointment for Burden backers, this landing spot would quickly prop it up.
Hey, it could happen: Ashton Jeanty RB, Boise State with the 4th Pick
If New England is looking for a quick offensive turnaround, could it eschew needs like offensive line and simply select the draft’s best offensive player in the first round? It seems unlikely, but with a talent like Jeanty there could be “Jeanty — No Matter What!” vibes in some war rooms.
New York Jets
PICKS: 7, 42, 73, 110, 145, 162, 186, 207
New York should be one of the busiest teams in the NFL Draft in terms of filling positional needs for fantasy football. Garrett Wilson is a locked-in WR1 and should maintain an outside target share, but there is a severe lack of pass-catching weapons around him. Malachi Corley is more of a gadget player than the team’s probable WR2. Look for the Jets to address that need early in the Draft.
They are also in the market for a long-term answer at tight end. Tyler Conklin signed with the LA Chargers, and the Jets could find his replacement with Tyler Warren in Round 1 or a player like Elijah Arroyo in Round 2.
Justin Fields was signed as the starting quarterback, but that may not preclude New York from drafting a player like Jaxson Dart or Shedeur Sanders if either falls to them at pick No. 7, but that is looking less and less likely.
The running back position seems set with Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, and Isaiah Davis all being highlighted by new head coach Aaron Glenn — but never say never with this group of running backs. Hall has also not received a contract extension, and there are no indications New York is going in that direction.
Projected Pick: Elijah Arroyo TE, Miami with the 42nd Pick
Arroyo is a plus athlete and a downfield threat at the tight end position. He would be an exciting pick fantasy-wise, but New York may have their sights set on another tight end….
Hey, It could happen: Tyler Warren TE, Iowa State with the 7th Pick
While Armand Membou and Will Campbell will have a lot of fans in the building, Warren is one of the most intriguing additions that New York could make. He would fill two massive needs: starting TE and a #2 target in the passing game. There are also some “do-over” vibes with this selection. While Olu Fashanu was a solid pick, passing on Brock Bowers in 2024 will haunt many Jets fans for years to come. Warren is Bowers-Lite in terms of fantasy football potential.
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens
Picks: 27, 59, 91, 129, 136, 176, 183, 203, 210, 212, 243
Baltimore has one of the most talented rosters in the NFL and holds 11 picks in this draft, tied for the most in the league. Derrick Henry was everything for them last year, but he turns 31 this season. Justice Hill is a team and John Harbaugh favorite, but is a certain kind of back. Adding Henry’s potential long-term replacement or a like-for-like backup could be a priority.
Baltimore also signed DeAndre Hopkins to complement Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman at wide receiver this offseason, but adding additional quality and depth at the position would make sense for a team with championship aspirations. Tight end is locked and loaded with Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. Baltimore could potentially add a Day 3 tight end to back up Likely down the road if they foresee — or accelerate through trade — an end for Andrews.
Projected Pick: RJ Harvey RB, Central Florida with the 91st Pick
Harvey has been a Fantasy Points favorite for months, and his stock continues to rise in NFL circles. He is an older prospect (24 years old), a trait that shouldn’t bother an all-in, “Super Bowl or Bust” team like Baltimore. The Ravens also had Harvey in for a top-30 visit. He would be a terrific stylistic fit as Henry’s backup, who could also step into the Hill receiving role if needed.
Cincinnati Bengals
Picks: 17, 49, 81, 119, 153, 193
Cincinnati kept its core intact this offseason with massive deals for Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase. Joe Burrow will have his top two — now very highly paid — weapons. Expect a lot more production from the passing game this season. WR3 could be a consideration, but is hardly a priority, with Andrei Iosivas set to return in a similar role. Mike Gesicki was also re-signed, but the Bengals could look to add a long-term answer at tight end.
RB Chase Brown was one of fantasy football’s best value picks, exploding in production during his second year. Brown dominated backfield touches, especially in the second half of the season. Cincinnati will need to add depth at running back in this draft and could even draft Brown’s future replacement. While Brown was pure fantasy gold last season, he was also a day three selection and not necessarily the Bengals' long-term choice at the position. They signed Samaje Perine this offseason, but he will turn 30 this fall and is not exactly in high-end handcuff territory. Cincinnati could also value a running back who is an elite pass blocker — not a Brown strong suit.
The Bengals have met with players like TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins, and Kaleb Johnson. When you add it all up, Brown managers could be in store for more than a few uneasy moments over the course of the NFL Draft.
Projected Pick: Colston Loveland TE, Michigan with the 17th Pick
Loveland would be a “push the chips in” bet on the offense and would put an exclamation point on the Bengals' big bet on the passing game this offseason. Adding Loveland to the Burrow-Chase-Higgins trio would be almost unfair to opposing defenses.
Drafting a defender here makes total sense and is the practical thing to do, but wouldn’t it be more fun to just lean into the team’s strength?
Hey, It could happen: TreVeyon Henderson RB, Ohio State with the 17th Pick
This would essentially be the end of days for Chase Brown dynasty managers — or at least a severe haircut to production and touches. Henderson has the highest upside as a receiver of any back in this class and is a home-run hitter. He is also a top-notch blocker — one area that Brown lacks. Never say never…..
Cleveland Browns
Picks: 2, 33, 67, 94, 104, 179, 192, 200, 216, 255
Cleveland has a massive hole at quarterback and the option to use the second overall pick to select their long-term answer at the position. The Browns also need a running back. The Nick Chubb era has officially ended, and it seems more than likely that the team’s next starter will come from this draft. They hold the first pick in the second round and could select one of the draft’s top backs or wait until Rounds 3 or 4. They could even double-dip at the position.
Jerry Jeudy enjoyed a career renaissance in his first season as a Brown, and Cedric Tillman flashed talent, but the team could use more pass catchers. Travis Hunter is very much in play with the second overall pick and, given GM Andrew Berry’s comments, would most likely play a more significant role as a receiver with the Browns than on several other teams. This is an extremely important draft for Cleveland to get their offense back on track.
Projected Pick: Travis Hunter WR/CB, Colorado with the 2nd Pick
Travis Hunter is electric. If the Browns select him, they won’t just be adding the most talented player in this draft class — they’ll be injecting explosive playmaking into an emerging group of pass catchers. With four-time Pro Bowler Denzel Ward already in place at cornerback, Hunter wouldn’t face the pressure of stepping in as a full-time defender. Instead, he could contribute on key passing downs defensively while focusing the bulk of his snaps on offense, where his dynamic skill set would make an immediate impact.
Pittsburgh Steelers
PICKS: 21, 83, 156, 185, 229
Pittsburgh sent a second-round pick to Seattle for DK Metcalf, giving it clarity at wide receiver with DK Metcalf and George Pickens forming a capable outside duo. Tight end is settled, with Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington holding their places on the depth chart. Running back and quarterback will be priorities. The Aaron Rodgers saga continues and could extend well past the Draft, which might force the Steelers’ hand. The Steelers could be aggressive and look to move up if Jaxson Dart falls outside the top 10.
With scatbacks Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield and Najee Harris in LA, Pittsburgh needs a back who can handle volume. The Steelers could address this need in the third or fourth round.
Projected Pick: Bhayshul Tuten RB, Virginia Tech with the 83rd Pick
Tuten completely tore up the NFL Combine and has been on the rise ever since. Pittsburgh met with him on a top-30 visit. He is exactly the sort of home run hitter that NFL teams value these days and would have a chance to usurp incumbent Jaylen Warren for the team's top RB spot, or team up with him as an exciting committee.
AFC South
Houston Texans
PICKS: 25, 58, 78, 89, 166, 236, 241
Fantasy managers were betting on a massive breakout for the Houston Texans' offense last season, but the result was underwhelming. C.J. Stroud was a disappointment and failed to deliver at his inflated ADP. Joe Mixon, however, was a huge hit and will enter the season as the starting running back and a focal point of the offense. The Texans will most likely draft a strong handcuff — and Mixon’s potential successor.
Nico Collins continues to produce at a high level and is one of the league’s best wide receivers. After Collins, however, there is significant turnover at the position. Stefon Diggs signed with New England, and Tank Dell appears likely to miss the entire season with an injury. Houston traded for Christian Kirk, though they only gave up a seventh-round pick. The Texans are expected to draft additional help at wide receiver — potentially as early as the first round. Other players, such as John Metchie and Xavier Hutchinson, will compete for targets and playing time.
At tight end, veteran Dalton Schultz regressed. Houston could look to add another option to compete with 2024 draft pick Cade Stover. Expect a busy three days for the Texans' offense during the NFL Draft.
Projected Pick: Emeka Egbuka WR, Ohio State with the 25th Pick
An Ohio State reunion. The locker room narrative would be strong here, with Stroud being reunited with one of his former pass catchers. Stylistically, Egbuka would be a strong fit. He would thrive as Houston’s secondary pass catcher to Collins, and become an “easy button” target for Stroud underneath. Egbuka has the potential to make Houston much stronger in the red zone as well.
Hey, It could happen: Omarion Hampton, UNC with the 25th Pick
Houston has been connected to Hampton throughout the pre-Draft process. While running back is not an immediate priority, Mixon is 28 years old. If the Texans view Hampton as an elite talent, the price may be right if he falls a little more than expected.
Indianapolis Colts
PICKS: 14, 45, 80, 117, 151, 189, 232
The Anthony Richardson roller coaster continues. Indianapolis brought in free agent Daniel Jones to compete with Richardson for the starting quarterback job—a battle that could last well into training camp.
At running back, Jonathan Taylor was fantastic toward the end of last season and carries strong momentum into 2025. If he stays healthy, Taylor should deliver RB1 production. The Colts also signed Khalil Herbert in free agency and have Trey Sermon and Tyler Goodson rostered. If Indianapolis adds another back, expect it to be a pass-catching specialist.
Wide receiver is a position with notable continuity. Longtime standout Michael Pittman Jr. struggled at times last season but should bounce back if the quarterback play improves. Josh Downs took a significant step forward in Year 2 and aims to improve even further in Year 3. Adonai Mitchell — last year’s second-round pick — and Alec Pierce bring size and athleticism to the outside.
Tight end looks like the Colts’ biggest need among the skill positions. There have been persistent rumors linking them to Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland — widely considered the top two prospects at the position. Indianapolis would likely need to use its first-round pick to land either one.
Projected Pick: Colston Loveland TE, Michigan with the 14th Pick
Loveland makes total sense for the Colts and fills a massive need. He can become a dominant force in the middle of the field. There would be a pathway for Loveland to become the team’s number one target at some point early in his career.
Hey, It could happen: Damien Martinez, Miami with the 117th Pick
Taylor is one of the highest volume backs in the league. He had at least 21 carries in nine of his 14 games played. The Colts upgrading their handcuff running back position with a physical back like Martinez could take some pressure off of Taylor, and give the team peace of mind behind him.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Picks: 5, 36, 70, 88, 107, 126, 142, 182, 194, 221
Jacksonville struck gold in the 2024 first round with wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. He is a foundational piece for their offense and will likely remain so for years to come. The offseason hire of new head coach Liam Coen has generated buzz and renewed hope for a bounce-back season from quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Coen was excellent in his lone season as Tampa Bay’s offensive coordinator, and there are hopes that his offensive fireworks will translate to Duval.
But outside of BTJ and Lawrence, there’s a complete lack of clarity surrounding the Jacksonville offense.
Travis Etienne and Tank Bigsby are the current running backs, and if they survive the draft, they'll compete for touches in what could become a committee. However, there's also a strong possibility that Coen and the new regime will target their own guy in the draft — someone who could mix in with the current backs or overtake them entirely.
Dyami Brown signed as a free agent and looks to take on a larger role than he had in Washington, competing with veteran Gabe Davis. Parker Washington is currently slotted as the starting slot receiver, but both Brown and Washington could be quickly passed on the depth chart if the Jaguars address the position in Round 1 or Round 2 of the draft.
Brenton Strange will compete with Johnny Mundt for tight end targets, with Strange holding the edge. Any rookies selected by Jacksonville at the skill positions will have an opportunity to make an immediate impact.
Projected Pick: Jaylin Noel WR, Iowa State with the 36th Pick
Noel would be an ideal fit. He would immediately be a slot upgrade over Washington, and has the versatility to bump outside when BTJ moves around the offense. A 100+ target rookie season could be in store for Noel in a landing spot that would no doubt boost his dynasty rookie draft ADP.
Tennessee Titans
PICKS: 1, 35, 103, 120, 141, 167, 178, 188
Tennessee looks set to select QB Cam Ward with the first pick in the NFL Draft, for good reason — the Titans averaged only 18.4 points per game in Year 1 of the Brian Callahan era. There is plenty of hope that Ward can become the franchise savior, but at this point, Titans fans would probably settle for an above-average quarterback.
At running back, Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears both had their moments last season — Pollard got off to a fast start, while Spears played his best football at the end of the year. They form a capable 1-2 punch, although neither looks like Tennessee’s long-term answer at the position. Running back is not a priority, but Tennessee could take advantage of the depth in this year’s class and select one during the draft.
At wide receiver, Calvin Ridley leads the way, but he is 30 years old. Tennessee desperately needs quality pass-catching weapons, and it would be surprising if they didn’t draft a wide receiver on Day 2 or later in the draft. At tight end, Chigoziem Okonkwo enters his fourth season as a pro. He ended last season on a high note with several strong fantasy performances.
Projected Pick: Jayden Higgins WR, Iowa State with the 33rd Pick
It would be fitting for Tennessee to draft their franchise quarterback, and then follow up with a pick for his new pass catcher. Higgins would settle in at the WR2 opposite Ridley, before taking over as the team’s top option in 2026. This would be a great landing spot for Higgins and one that would fast-track him toward becoming one of the team’s featured weapons.
AFC WEST
Denver Broncos
PICKS: 20, 51, 85, 122, 191, 197, 208
Denver is an offense on the rise and a team that could take a big step forward in this draft. Last season, they hit big with rookie QB Bo Nix, who was terrific, finishing as a fantasy QB1 and leading the Broncos to the AFC playoffs. If not for Jayden Daniels’ sensational rookie season, Nix would have been an even bigger storyline.
Tight end was a significant need, and Denver addressed it by adding Evan Engram, who should step into a major role. Wide receiver is a possibility, but Denver seems content with their current group. Courtland Sutton had a career season, Marvin Mims emerged, and rookies Devaughn Vele and Troy Franklin are entering their second seasons as pros. Denver could add another receiver but won’t force the issue.
The position most likely to be addressed is running back. Denver has been heavily mocked to select a back in Round 1, and if they choose to wait, it will most likely happen on Day 2. The Broncos’ RB pick is one of the most anticipated for fantasy managers.
Projected Pick: Bhayshul Tuten RB, Virginia Tech with the 83rd Pick
Tuten completely tore up the NFL Combine, and his stock has been on the rise ever since. Pittsburgh met with him on a top-30 visit. He is exactly the sort of home run hitter that NFL teams value these days and would have a chance to usurp incumbent Jaylen Warren for the teams top spot, or team up with him as an exciting committee.
Kansas City Chiefs
Picks: 31, 63, 66, 95, 133, 226, 251, 257
Kansas City lost its bid to three-peat as Super Bowl champions in a disappointing blowout loss to Philadelphia. Their offense was completely dominated. But the return of Rashee Rice, plus a full season of Marquise Brown and the emergence of Xavier Worthy in a big-play role, has Kansas City looking stronger at wide receiver than at any point since the Tyreek Hill era — presuming Rice and Worthy avoid suspensions for off-field issues. The Chiefs could still add an outside threat with size. Additionally, future Hall of Famer Travis Kelce returns, with plenty of Noah Gray mixed in at tight end.
Running back is a position to watch, and the Chiefs could add a major talent through the draft who could compete for touches right away. Andy Reid selected a running back in the first round recently in Clyde Edwards-Helaire, which clearly didn’t work out. But a player like Omarion Hampton or TreVeyon Henderson could be in consideration at the end of Round 1.
Projected Pick: Cam Skattebo RB, Arizona State with the 66th Pick
This is a dream landing spot for Skattebo, but it also makes a lot of sense for Kansas City. Skattebo would immediately be the most well-rounded back on the Chiefs roster. He would start the year out as part of a committee, but would have a pathway to take on the majority of the usage as the season progressed. Stylistically, he compares to Kareem Hunt — one of the most successful fantasy backs during the Reid era in Kansas City.
Las Vegas Raiders
PICKS: 6, 37, 68, 108, 143, 180, 213, 215, 222
Las Vegas looks poised to take a big step forward. 2024 first-rounder Brock Bowers looks like a superstar at tight end and a foundational building block for the offense. The Raiders also added stability at the quarterback position with the acquisition of Geno Smith.
Las Vegas is the odds-on favorite to select star running back Ashton Jeanty in Round 1. If they choose not to go in that direction, running back will become a priority on Day 2 — the current roster is severely lacking in talent and depth at the position, with 32-year-old Raheem Mostert currently leading the way.
Las Vegas also has a significant need at wide receiver. Jakobi Meyers had one of the best seasons of his career last year, but the Raiders still need to add another starting-caliber receiver. Look for them to target one on Day 2.
Projected Pick: Ashton Jeanty RB, Boise State with the 6th Pick
Jeanty is the chalk pick, and one that makes total sense for the win-now movement in Vegas. He would have a chance at becoming the next great running back in fantasy football. In dynasty, this pick would only add to the overwhelming Jeanty enthusiasm. In redraft and best ball, this landing spot would propel Jeanty inside of the top 10 picks — if not higher.
Hey, It could happen: Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State with the 37th Pick
If Vegas passes on Jeanty, it will not take them too long to address running back. The last time we saw Judkins in a Chip Kelly offense, he had 121 total yards and three touchdowns in the National Championship Game. This would be a nice consolation prize to Jeanty, and one Raiders fans could still be excited about.
Los Angeles Chargers
Picks: 22, 55, 86, 125, 158, 181, 199, 209, 214, 256
Los Angeles landed a gem at wide receiver with Ladd McConkey in last year’s draft. He should be even better in Year 2 and is an emerging star. 2023 first-round pick Quentin Johnston improved after a disastrous rookie season. He’ll be joined by veteran Mike Williams, who returns to LA after stops in New York and Pittsburgh. The Chargers could still use another wide receiver. T
ight end is also a position where they could use a talent upgrade, with Tyler Conklin and Will Dissly currently competing for targets. Najee Harris’ arrival crushed dynasty managers’ hopes of a rookie RB selection for LA in Round 1. Najee Harris is only on a one-year deal, and the Chargers could add another back, most likely on Day 3.
Projected Pick: Mason Taylor TE, LSU with the 55th Pick
The Chargers will most likely miss out on the dream scenario of a Harbaugh-Colston Loveland reunion, but could find their long-term answer in Round Two. Taylor has the size, athleticism, and pedigree (his father is Jason Taylor) to become an absolute weapon. The Greg Roman system has heavily featured the tight end. Taylor would quickly become one of Justin Herbert’s favorite red zone targets.
Hey, It could happen: Emeka Egbuka WR, Ohio State with the 22nd Pick
Justin Herbert dynasty managers would love this pick. Egbuka is a power slot with juice. He would combine with McConkey to give Herbert two players who would constantly be open and put pressure on opposing secondaries. McConkey lived in the slot, but would have to share time there with Egbuka if this pick happened, putting a slight dent in the McConkey “league-winner” narrative for 2025.
