As the 2025 fantasy football season approaches, players are gearing up to identify potential hidden gems that could make a significant impact on their rosters. Success in fantasy leagues often hinges on a deep understanding of not just the top-tier players but also those who may currently fly under the radar. This year, several deep sleepers promise to be valuable assets for fantasy managers willing to explore beyond the usual names.
Identifying the Hidden Gems
The following players are poised to emerge as key contributors, despite their current low visibility in traditional fantasy drafts. They may not be selected in typical 10-team leagues, but their potential makes them worthy of consideration in deeper formats, such as 12- or 14-team leagues, dynasty leagues, or those featuring individual defensive players (IDP).
Tory Horton, a wide receiver with the Seattle Seahawks, stands out as a promising prospect. After a knee injury limited his college performance, Horton was drafted in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. Despite the setback, he showcased his skills at Colorado State, recording 193 catches for 2,620 yards and 17 touchdowns over three seasons. His ability to generate yards after the catch positions him well for a role in Seattle’s offense, especially with starter Cooper Kupp missing time due to injuries.
Another player to keep an eye on is Jaxson Dart, the quarterback for the New York Giants. Dart enters a pivotal year as the Giants look to solidify their future at the quarterback position. He excelled in college, leading qualified quarterbacks with an impressive 10.8 yards per attempt last season. If Dart secures the starting role, he could become a valuable fantasy asset due to his dual-threat capability.
Rookies and Potential Breakouts
The rookie class offers exciting options as well, including Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a running back for the Washington Commanders. Although he was drafted in the seventh round, his impressive performance during rookie camp has generated buzz. Croskey-Merritt’s speed and agility could see him quickly carve out a role in the Commanders’ backfield, particularly as veteran running back Austin Ekeler ages.
Also noteworthy is Adonai Mitchell, a wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts. After a disappointing rookie season characterized by a 42.6% catch rate, Mitchell has shown signs of improvement in training camp. If he can enhance his efficiency, he could challenge Alec Pierce for a starting spot in the Colts’ lineup.
In the running back category, Keaton Mitchell of the Baltimore Ravens remains a name to watch. After recovering from a significant knee injury, he displayed promise during the preseason, rushing for 68 yards and a touchdown. With veteran Derrick Henry’s extensive workload, Mitchell could serve as a crucial backup in deeper leagues.
Adding to the intrigue, Kyle Monangai, a seventh-round pick for the Chicago Bears, is making headlines due to his reliable performance. Known for his exceptional contact balance, Monangai went an FBS-leading 607 rushing attempts without a fumble during his college career. His potential to take on a meaningful role in the Bears’ offense could offer an unexpected boost.
Lastly, Tre Tucker of the Las Vegas Raiders is projected for a breakout year. With a new coaching staff in place, Tucker’s speed and previous flashes of brilliance could see him thrive in a larger role this season. He has already caught the attention of his coaches and teammates, indicating potential for increased target share.
As fantasy football enthusiasts prepare for the upcoming season, identifying these deep sleepers could be the key to gaining an edge in competitive leagues. With thorough research and a willingness to explore beyond the obvious choices, players may find these hidden gems to be invaluable assets in their quest for championship glory.
