The 2025 NFL rookie class is loaded with talent, and fantasy football managers are already looking for the next breakout stars. To help you get a head start on draft season, we asked our collection of Featured Pros experts to share their early rookie predictions. From first-round favorites to late-round sleepers, these analysts highlight the rookies most likely to make an impact in fantasy football this year. Whether you’re preparing for redraft, dynasty, or best ball leagues, this early look at top rookie performers can give you the edge you need to dominate your draft.
Fantasy Football Rookie Predictions
Which rookie are you most interested in drafting for redraft leagues and what are your expectations?
Quinshon Judkins (RB – CLE)
“Quinshon Judkins, a mid-first-round RB for the Browns, is my top rookie target for 2025 redraft leagues, as his landing spot offers a clear path to lead-back duties. With Nick Chubb a free agent and his return from injury uncertain, even if he returns, there is room to produce for Judkins. In Cleveland’s run-heavy scheme under Kevin Stefanski, Judkins could see 180-220 carries and 30-40 targets. Expect 1,000-1,200 total yards and 8-10 touchdowns in PPR formats, making him a solid RB2 with upside. His 6th-10th overall dynasty ranking translates to a 4th or 5th-round redraft value, offering great return for the cost.”
– Aaron St Denis (Fantasy Sports Advice Network)
Travis Hunter (WR – JAC)
“The two rookies that I really like this year are RB Ashton Jeanty and WR Travis Hunter, but to get Jeanty, you’re going to have to pay the full retail price (current redraft consensus ranking at RB 4), so I’ll talk about Hunter. I don’t think some of the fantasy football analysts realize just how talented Travis Hunter is, because if they did, they’d rank him a hell of a lot higher. In my opinion, the most talented WR on Jacksonville isn’t Brian Thomas Jr., it’s Travis Hunter. Hunter is tougher with contested catches and is a better route runner. The only concern I have is how many snaps he’ll play, but with a current consensus ranking of only WR 31, I’ll roll the dice based on his talent. That’s in Ringo’s draft neighborhood- very talented players who don’t cost a lot. Ringo’s comp- a lighter version of Ja’Marr Chase.”
– Mark Ringo (Sleepers and Busts)
Ashton Jeanty (RB – LV)
“Ashton Jeanty will be a popular pick in redraft leagues, likely coming off the board in the first round. Last year, the Raiders had one of the worst rushing offenses in the NFL, ranking in the bottom five in rushing attempts, yards, touchdowns, and yards per attempt. However, that won’t be the case with Pete Carroll taking over on the sidelines and Jeanty in the backfield. The rookie will be the focal point of the offense as Carroll’s new Marshawn Lynch. The former Boise State star is the RB4 in my early redraft rankings behind Bijan Robinson, Saquon Barkley, and Jahmyr Gibbs. Jeanty is one of four running backs who could average over 20 PPR fantasy points per game in 2025.”
– Mike Fanelli (FantasyPros)
“Ashton Jeanty and Cam Ward are the only clear day 1 workhorses out of this Rookie class. (Yes, Travis Hunter will be involved, especially sans Gabe Davis, but he’s not walking into the WR1 role without an injury to Brian Thomas Jr. Tet is entering a somewhat muddy WR room (though likely the WR1)) and when it comes to redraft leagues, guaranteed weekly production is something I target.) It’s unlikely Cam Ward is this year’s Jayden Daniels, so Ashton Jeanty has to be the rookie to target. He immediately steps into an RB room with almost no competition for touches and is arguably the top offensive weapon on the entire team. If the Raiders can stay in competitive games, I expect a 1,000+ yard and 8+ TD season out of Jeanty. He won’t stay on draft boards long, so if you want him, he’s likely your RB1.”
– Avery Thrasher (The Branded Sports)
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