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 NFC 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.
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys
Picks: 12, 44, 76, 149, 132, 174, 170, 173, 177, 206
Few teams have as glaring a need — and as much available opportunity — at running back as the Dallas Cowboys. There will be plenty of eyes in fantasy football circles on the Cowboys throughout the NFL Draft.
A franchise that gave us Ezekiel Elliott, Emmitt Smith, Tony Dorsett, and, for a brief time, peak Tony Pollard could soon deliver dynasty managers a “free square” pick if they dive into the 2025 draft class's deep RB pool. Free-agent signings Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders are unlikely to be true obstacles if the right rookie lands in Dallas.
The Cowboys also have a pressing need at wide receiver opposite star pass catcher CeeDee Lamb. Brandin Cooks signed with New Orleans, and Jalen Tolbert is a replacement-level talent. The WR2 spot is very much up in the air, and Dallas is expected to add at least one receiver during the draft—Matthew Golden and Tetairoa McMillan are both in play in Round 1.
Tight end looks relatively stable with Jake Ferguson and Luke Schoonmaker atop the depth chart, but never say never if Dallas sees an upgrade worth pursuing.
Projected Pick: Tetairoa McMillan WR, Arizona with the 12th Pick
Dallas has a desperate need for a secondary pass catcher and fills it in a major way with McMillan. He would provide shades of former Cowboy Amari Cooper and form a dangerous pair with Lamb. Despite not landing as a WR1 option, there is sneaky fantasy upside for Tet in this situation. Lamb and McMillan could combine for a highly consolidated target tree.
New York Giants
Picks: 3, 34, 65, 99, 105, 154, 219, 246
Brian Daboll managed to survive a 3-14 season and will return as the head coach in New York. To survive the upcoming season, he’ll need a massive turnaround — one that starts with an infusion of talent via the NFL Draft. Whether or not New York uses the third overall pick on a quarterback is one of the Draft's biggest question marks. It’s looking more and more likely that the Giants will pass on the position, but could address it with their second-round pick or via a trade into the back end of Round 1. It's hard to imagine them entering the season with only Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston at quarterback.
Running back is another position of intrigue. Tyrone Tracy was impressive as a rookie, but New York has met with some of the draft's top prospects at the position, including TreVeyon Henderson, Quinshon Judkins, Kaleb Johnson, and others.
Malik Nabers is a superstar talent and the team’s offensive focal point. Upgrading the rest of the wide receiver room should be addressed at some point in the draft. For now, Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton are the team’s No. 2 and No. 3 wideouts. Tight end looks fairly set with Theo Johnson. This team needs to add skill-position talent.
Projected Pick: Jalen Milroe QB, Alabama with the 34th Pick
Milroe is not a perfect prospect by any means, but he possesses some exciting traits that could translate very well on an NFL field — and most importantly — in our fantasy lineups. He is electric as a runner and has a big arm. The Giants would attempt to emulate the pathway Philadelphia took with Jalen Hurts, giving Milroe time to develop as a backup until he was ready to take over as starter.
Philadelphia Eagles
Picks: 32, 64, 96, 134, 161, 164, 165, 168
Philadelphia won its second Super Bowl in dominant fashion, cruising past Washington in the NFC Championship and dismantling Kansas City in the big game. As expected, offensive continuity is a theme heading into 2025.
Jalen Hurts will again lead the offense, and the "Tush Push" remains a constant threat — unless it’s banned this summer. A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith form one of the most talented WR duos in the league, though the Eagles could use an upgrade at the WR3 spot.
Tight end may also be a priority, as rumors suggest Dallas Goedert could be traded. If that happens, the team could draft his successor. Grant Calcaterra and free-agent signing Kylen Granson are other depth options.
Saquon Barkley had a legendary season, exceeding even the most bullish expectations with 2,005 total yards and 15 touchdowns. Longtime backup — and Nick Sirianni favorite — Kenneth Gainwell signed with Pittsburgh. Second-year back Will Shipley is in line to become the new RB2, but look for Philadelphia to add more backfield depth during the draft. This team is a juggernaut.
Projected Pick: Mason Taylor TE, LSU with the 32nd Pick
Taylor is an absolute unit — physically built and ready for NFL Sundays. He would step right in and become the Eagles' long-term answer at the position. Blocking-wise, he would hold up well. But there could be an even more exciting option fantasy-wise available one round later….
Hey, it could happen: Harold Fannin Jr. TE, Bowling Green with the 64th Pick
Fannin Jr. would reunite with new Eagles quarterbacks coach Scott Loeffler, his head coach at Bowling Green. This would be the absolute nuts landing spot as Fannin Jr. would have a pathway to become Philadelphia’s move tight end, heavily mixing in the slot.
Washington Commanders
Picks: 29, 61, 128, 205, 245
Washington struck gold with Jayden Daniels last season. He’s already one of the best quarterbacks in the league—a bona fide winner and fantasy stud. The Commanders’ offseason has focused on building a strong ecosystem around him.
They traded for offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil, and more offensive additions are expected during the NFL Draft. Terry McLaurin had his best season as a pro and returns as the team’s WR1. The WR2 spot was addressed via a trade for Deebo Samuel, and there’s excitement about his potential impact.
There’s also optimism surrounding second-year wideout Luke McCaffrey. While another pass-catcher isn’t a necessity, a player like Matthew Golden or Emeka Egbuka could tempt Washington if available at pick No. 29.
Tight end looks set with veteran Zach Ertz re-signed and second-year player Ben Sinnott in the mix. There have been recent rumors linking Washington to LSU tight end Mason Taylor, reuniting Daniels with his former college tight end. Running back, however, is wide open — and ripe for a bold move as early as Round 1. The team has met with several prospects, and no running backs on the roster are under contract beyond the 2025 season.
Projected Pick: TreVeyon Henderson RB, Ohio State with the 29th Pick
Henderson and Daniels would be an absolute dream backfield fantasy-wise. A home run hitter with big play ability as a runner, Henderson would also provide Daniels with an exciting pass-catching option out of the backfield. There would be a ton of steam with Henderson in ADP in all formats if he were to land here.
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears
Picks: 10, 39, 41, 72, 148, 233, 240
Chicago hired Ben Johnson, one of the most fantasy-friendly offensive coordinators in recent memory, as head coach. The move has energized Caleb Williams dynasty managers and sparked excitement for a breakout year from the Bears' rookie QB.
Williams will be joined by DJ Moore as the team’s top wideout. There’s speculation that Chicago could draft a traditional slot receiver to complement them in Johnson’s offense.
Tight end will be in consideration at pick No. 10 overall. Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland are both potential options. The Bears could also address tight end on Day 2. Incumbent Cole Kmet could quickly find himself demoted.
The biggest domino that could fall? Running back. The Bears are one of the favorites to draft Ashton Jeanty in Round 1. If they miss out, expect them to target the position on Day 2. DeAndre Swift and Roschon Johnson will likely be competing for backup touches in 2025.
Projected Pick: Tyler Warren TE, Penn State with the 10th Pick
If Jeanty is off the board, Warren would be hard to pass up. He is a significant upgrade from Kmet and a player who could help turbocharge Johnson’s new offense. Warren is exactly the type of player who can help Williams take the next step in year two and become one of his most reliable long-term targets.
Hey, it could happen: Kaleb Johnson RB, Iowa with the 39th Pick
Johnson would thrive in the David Montgomery role in this coach’s offense. He could quickly become a 1,000+-yard rusher with double-digit touchdown potential. If Johnson lands here, expect him to move up in dynasty rookie draft ADP.
Detroit Lions
Picks: 28, 60, 102, 130, 196, 228, 244
Detroit lost offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to a division rival in Chicago. They could also be moving on from Jameson Williams, who broke out in 2024 but may be traded during the draft due to contract concerns.
The Lions could draft his replacement as early as Round 1 or Round 2.
Detroit boasts the league’s best 1-2 running back punch with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. They could add a potential Montgomery successor on Day 3.
Tight end is set with star Sam LaPorta. Quarterback is seemingly secure as well — but if chaos unfolds and top QBs (outside of Cam Ward) fall, Detroit could make a surprise move.
Projected Pick: Kyle Williams WR, Washington State with the 60th Pick
Williams is a fast-rising prospect in draft circles and should be selected early on Day 2. He would provide Detroit with coverage as a potential replacement for Williams in 2026. In the short term, he would be a strong WR3 with big-play ability.
Hey, it could happen: Cam Skattebo RB, Arizona State with the 102nd Pick
Detroit recently met with Skattebo on a top-30 visit. He has been compared to Montgomery as a prospect, and could become his eventual replacement. Detroit relies heavily on its run game, and adding Skattebo into the mix would further elevate one of the team’s strengths.
Green Bay Packers
Picks: 23, 54, 87, 124, 159, 198, 237, 250
Few teams in the NFL have a more glaring need for a WR1 than the Green Bay Packers. Since trading away Davante Adams, the team has struggled to find a true lead wideout. Christian Watson and Jayden Reed haven’t developed into that role, and fantasy managers are rooting for the team to use the No. 23 pick on a receiver.
Jordan Love probably wouldn’t mind a little help either. If Green Bay doesn’t add a pass-catcher in Round 1, expect them to draft one on Day 2 — and possibly double-dip at the position. Reed and Romeo Doubs aren’t likely to cut it, even in a run-heavy offense.
At tight end, Tucker Kraft broke out, while 2023 second-round pick Luke Musgrave has struggled with injuries.
Josh Jacobs had a strong debut season in Green Bay, finishing with 1,331 yards on 301 carries—both top-five single-season marks in team history. MarShawn Lloyd, a 2024 third-rounder, struggled to stay healthy. The Packers could add backfield competition during the draft.
Projected Pick: Jack Bech WR, TCU with the 54th Pick
Bech would be a great addition to the Packers' wide receiver room. He is a great route runner and can line up in multiple spots. The Senior Bowl standout would immediately become one of Love’s most reliable targets.
Hey, it could happen: Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State with the 23rd Pick
Egbuka would be a slam-dunk fit and a significant upgrade for Green Bay. He could be parked inside at the slot, but has the size to play outside at times. Egbuka is also a strong run blocker. The Packers have not drafted a wide receiver in the first round since 2002, a streak that fantasy managers are actively rooting will end.
Minnesota Vikings
Picks: 24, 97, 139, 187
The Minnesota Vikings have only four total draft picks — the fewest of any team in the NFL. The biggest change on offense will be second-year signal caller J.J. McCarthy taking over at quarterback, with Sam Darnold now a Seattle Seahawk. McCarthy’s top three options in the passing game form one of the league’s best wide receiver/tight end trios: Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson.
Minnesota added Rondale Moore this offseason, but could still draft an additional wideout.
Running back is the most significant need from a fantasy perspective, but Minnesota may already be thinking it’s set. They re-signed Aaron Jones and traded for Jordan Mason. A Day 3 back would make sense from a roster-construction standpoint and could be a dark horse dynasty target due to Jones’ age.
Projected Pick: Brashard Smith RB, SMU with the 139th Pick
Smith would add a lot of juice to the Minnesota backfield. He’s on the lighter side at 194 pounds, but was extremely productive in his lone season at SMU. A converted wide receiver, Smith offers big-time potential as a satellite back early in his career. This is exactly the type of pick Minnesota should consider in this range of the draft.
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons
Picks: 15, 46, 118, 218, 242
Could the Atlanta Falcons finally break the streak? They’ve selected a skill-position player in the first round in four straight drafts: Kyle Pitts in 2021, Drake London in 2022, Bijan Robinson in 2023, and Michael Penix Jr. in 2024. Never say never when it comes to Atlanta, but this year it looks more likely they’ll select a defender with the 15th overall pick.
London had a massive breakout and is a dark-horse WR1 overall candidate for 2025. Darnell Mooney and Ray-Ray McCloud also performed well, but the Falcons could prioritize adding another wide receiver as early as Round 2.
Pitts has failed to deliver on lofty expectations since his strong rookie season, and Atlanta could look to draft another tight end. Tyler Allgeier is a solid backup running back, but the team could upgrade its RB3 spot over 2024 selection Jase McClellan, most likely on Day 3.
Atlanta has only five total picks this draft.
Projected Pick: Luther Burden WR, Missouri with the 46th Pick
Burden would be a great fit for Atlanta and an upgrade from McCloud in the slot. He could be used on manufactured touch plays and would add another dynamic element to the Falcons' attack. Burden could also mix in outside. The Falcons want to give Michael Penix every opportunity to thrive in year two. This pick would be a great indication of it.
Hey, it could happen: Matthew Golden WR, Texas with the 15th Pick
Can the Falcons help themselves this year? Golden would keep the skill position streak alive. It seems unlikely, but never say never when Atlanta is on the clock….
Carolina Panthers
Picks: 8, 57, 74, 111, 114, 140, 146, 163, 230
There is plenty of optimism in Carolina that Dave Canales will take the next step in Year 2. Bryce Young had a terrific turnaround, especially over the second half of the season. Instead of competing with a 2025 rookie draft pick, as some speculated early on, he enters the season with momentum as the team’s unquestioned starter.
In order for Young to truly break out, he’ll need more from his skill-position players, especially his pass catchers. Second-year wideouts Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker return, as does veteran Adam Thielen. Look for Carolina to draft a wide receiver on Day 1 or Day 2. While it seems unlikely they’ll use the eighth overall pick on a wideout, a trade back remains a possibility. Their second-round pick isn't until the end of the round, with their original selection now in the hands of the Chicago Bears due to the Young deal.
Second-year tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders and Tommy Tremble are the incumbents, but Carolina could add depth — or a potential upgrade — during the NFL Draft.
Running back looks settled. Chuba Hubbard was one of last year’s best ADP values and was rewarded with a lucrative contract extension. He’ll enter the season as the team’s starter. Carolina also signed an intriguing backup in former Dallas Cowboy Rico Dowdle. Jonathon Brooks looks likely to miss the entire season, effectively making this a redshirt year. The team could add another back on Day 3.
Projected Pick: Tetairoa McMillan WR, Arizona with the 8th Pick
The Panthers’ offense is screaming for a high-level target earner like McMillan. He would step into a Drake London–like role and immediately become Carolina’s number one option in the passing game. Young has shown a tendency to hyper-target his top receiver, and McMillan would be a shoo-in for an outsized role as a rookie if this pick were to happen. He would have 130+ target potential.
Hey, it could happen: Tyler Warren TE, Penn State with the 8th Pick
Carolina could add a number one target in the passing game differently with Warren. This pick may come down to whether or not they value him more than any wide receiver in this class. Warren’s Penn State usage was insane, and it would be fun to see how Canales would utilize him.
New Orleans Saints
Picks: 9, 40, 71, 93, 112, 131, 184, 248, 254
Derek Carr’s murky 2025 injury outlook makes New Orleans one of the teams most likely to draft a quarterback. The big question is whether they’ll use their first-rounder or wait until Day 2. With two third-round picks and two fourth-rounders, the Saints also have the flexibility to trade into the back end of Round 1.
Quarterback isn’t New Orleans’ only need. It’s in the mix to select Tyler Warren or Tetairoa McMillan in the first round. Adding pass catchers will be a priority throughout the draft. Alvin Kamara is still playing at a high level, but the Saints could draft a back to compete with Kendre Miller for the RB2 role.
Projected Pick: Jaxson Dart QB, Ole Miss with the 9th Pick
New Orleans finds their new franchise quarterback in the first round with Dart. His underrated mobility and big arm could lead to a Bo Nix-like rookie season.
Hey, it could happen: Savion Williams WR, TCU with the 93rd Pick
Williams is a weapon and a great fit for a creative and aggressive signal caller like Moore. He has the size and elite athleticism to thrive in a big-play downfield role as a wideout, and can be used in the backfield as a running back. If the Saints struggle at quarterback, they can always like Williams up as a wildcat QB.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Picks: 19, 53, 84, 121, 157, 235
Tampa Bay was one of the highest-scoring teams in the NFL last season and returns nearly its entire roster. OC Liam Coen is now in Jacksonville, but the Bucs promoted from within, elevating Josh Grizzard to offensive coordinator.
Don’t expect Tampa Bay to completely sit out the offensive side of the NFL Draft, but it’ll likely prioritize defense in Round 1. With only six total picks, they are also a team that could move down and accumulate extra draft capital.
Running back looks set, with Bucky Irving, Rachaad White, and Sean Tucker returning. Still, the Bucs could take advantage of the depth in the 2025 class and add another back.
Wide receiver is in a similar position. The top three of Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Jalen McMillan is strong, but the Bucs notably hosted Top-30 visits with Jalin Noel and Matthew Golden.
Projected Pick: Elic Ayomanor WR, Stanford with the 53rd Pick
Ayomanor has size, athleticism, and tremendous body control. He could give Tampa Bay a succession plan when they eventually move on from Evans.
Hey, it could happen: Elijah Arroyo TE, Miami with the 53rd Pick
Tampa Bay could add competition behind Cade Otton with the uber-athletic Arroyo. Otton has been successful in this offense, but is due for a contract extension that Tampa Bay may not want to pay. Arroyo is a big play downfield threat and can thrive off of YAC ability. He would add a new dimension and wrinkle to Tampa Bay’s passing game.
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals
Picks: 16, 47, 78, 115, 152, 225
Arizona selected Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Cards could select another wide receiver to pair with him as early as the first round this year, and they’ve been linked to Matthew Golden. Arizona could also wait until Round 2, where players like Luther Burden and Jalin Noel could be in play.
James Conner was re-signed, and Trey Benson enters his second year as a pro after failing to make the impact some expected following his third-round selection last season.
Running back doesn’t appear to be a top priority on paper, but Arizona could still look to add quality depth at the position. There will no doubt be more than a few people in the building who are advocating for local star Cam Skattebo of Arizona State.
Projected Pick: Damien Martinez RB, Miami with the 78th Pick
Martinez is more of a like-for-like replacement for Conner than Benson. He is a powerful back who can get downfield in a hurry. This is a similar range to where Arizona selected Benson last season.
Hey, it could happen: Matthew Golden WR, Texas with the 16th Pick
Golden would be an ideal complement to Harrison Jr. and McBride in the passing game. He averaged over 17 yards per reception in the SEC last season. His speed and downfield big-play ability could open up a more nuanced role for Harrison Jr. than what we saw last season.
Los Angeles Rams
Picks: 26, 90, 101, 127, 190, 195, 201, 202
The Rams had a stellar 2024 draft class and added several strong pieces on defense, including budding star Jared Verse. This year, expect them to be more aggressive in adding offensive talent.
They signed Davante Adams, pairing him with star receiver Puka Nacua, but they still need a reliable No. 3 pass catcher — someone with more versatility than their current third option, Tutu Atwell.
Tight end is another position the Rams could prioritize. Last year, they attempted to trade up for Brock Bowers. Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland will likely be off the board by the time they pick in the first round, but a trade-up remains a possibility.
There have also been recent rumors that the Rams could select their Matthew Stafford replacement with the 26th overall pick.
Projected Pick: Jalen Milroe QB, Alabama with the 26th Pick
LA had a top-30 visit with Milroe. They could take a slow approach in his development with Stafford firmly in place and playing at a high level. We have never seen this level of runner at the quarterback position in a McVay offense.
Hey, it could happen: Terrance Ferguson, Oregon with the 90th Pick
Speaking of high-level athletes, Ferguson has the requisite athletic traits to become a high-end fantasy asset at the tight end position. He tore up the combine, posting elite numbers in several testing metrics.
San Francisco 49ers
Picks: 11, 43, 75, 100, 113, 138, 147, 160, 227, 249, 252
The 49ers have 11 total picks and a ton of flexibility to target their guys in this year’s draft. They signed Demarcus Robinson to join Jauan Jennings and Ricky Pearsall at wide receiver, but San Francisco will likely still add another pass catcher. They’ve been linked to Stanford’s Elic Ayomanor, who fits their system well. With Brandon Aiyuk’s uncertain future and injury status, adding a wide receiver will be a priority.
Christian McCaffrey is apparently fully healthy, but he’s coming off an injury-plagued season and turns 29 this summer. The Niners traded Jordan Mason to Minnesota and are expected to replace him with a rookie back.
How highly they select a running back will say a lot about how they view second-year player Isaac Guerendo and CMC’s long-term outlook.
Projected Pick: Bhayshul Tuten RB, Virginia Tech with the 75th Pick
Tuten has elite athleticism and scored 29 touchdowns over the past two seasons at Virginia Tech. He would be an ideal fit in Kyle Shanahan’s zone blocking heavy scheme. Dynasty managers would get very excited about this landing spot.
Seattle Seahawks
Picks: 18, 50, 52, 82, 92, 137, 172, 175, 223, 234
The Seahawks have already undergone a great deal of change on the offensive side of the ball this offseason. They signed Sam Darnold to be their new starting quarterback and traded Geno Smith to Las Vegas. Klint Kubiak will take over as the team’s new offensive coordinator.
Seattle also signed Cooper Kupp in free agency. With four Day 2 picks in addition to the 18th overall selection, expect even more investment on the offensive side of the ball.
Seattle has been linked to multiple wide receivers throughout the draft process, including Tetairoa McMillan and Matthew Golden in the first round. If the Seahawks instead select an offensive lineman or defender at pick 18, expect one of their two second-rounders to be used on a wide receiver.
Tight end could also be in play, as the team may look to add a long-term upgrade at a position currently filled by Noah Fant and A.J. Barner.
Running back seems settled, with Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet entering their fourth and third seasons as pros, respectively. Still, Seattle could add another talented back to stay younger and cheaper at the position.
Projected Pick: Jayden Higgins WR, Iowa State with the 50th Pick
Higgins could be drafted much higher than this, and if he were available here, Seattle would sprint to the podium. He’s a perfect fit alongside JSN and Kupp. While this would all but eliminate the slot usage many Higgins backers are hoping for, he could still rotate inside once Kupp eventually retires. Higgins would give Seattle the big, athletic receiver with downfield ability they’re currently lacking.
Hey, it could happen: Quinshon Judkins RB, Ohio State with the 52nd Pick
Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet dynasty managers, look away. Seattle could add a shocking twist to their run game if Judkins were available. This would give them the flexibility to move on from one of their current backs without extending them and recouping draft capital through a trade. We saw Seattle make a shocking pick for Charbonnet in 2023. Could history repeat itself?
