Breakout RBs Set for 2025 Fantasy Season

A panel of experts highlights RBs outside the top-24 ADP who could deliver big fantasy gains in 2025.

Breakout Running Backs Set for 2025 Fantasy Season

A group of fantasy pros identified several running backs outside the top-24 ADP who could make a real leap in 2025. The picks include Tony Pollard benefiting from early starter reps if Tyjae Spears is sidelined, Cam Skattebo arriving in New York with momentum, and Tank Bigsby seen as a potential late-round breakout in Jacksonville. Others mentioned include true breakouts in diverse backfields, with names like Jordan Mason moving into a larger role in Minnesota and Kaleb Johnson gaining attention in Pittsburgh. The guidance centers on targeting players with current cost but clear paths to more carries and targets, especially in offenses that have shown reliance on the run when healthy.

The exercise reflects a broader draft strategy: look for high upside and affordable cost outside the top tiers, while weighing risk from injuries, competition, and changing coaching staffs. Managers are urged to balance upside with feasibility, and to monitor training camp news for shifts in roles and workload that could unlock value during the season.

The trend this year is clear. Teams are leaning on multiple-back systems and versatile backs who can contribute as pass catchers. That creates room for sleepers who can produce weekly value even if they never assume a full-time workload. At the same time, the backfield landscape remains fragile. A hamstring pull, a late signing, or a revamped offense can instantly reshape a sleeper’s ceiling. The message for drafters is simple: chase opportunity, but diversify your bets across several teams and rookies to hedge risk.

This is not a promise of instant fame. It’s a plan to exploit cheap targets who could become weekly starters if given a look in the right system. The most successful picks usually come from players with a clear path to a bigger role, not just talent. Managers should stay flexible, cut losses early if an opportunity stalls, and keep a few late-round darts aimed at the best possible outcomes.

Highlights

The RB landscape remains crowded with upside plays that can define a season when the chips fall correctly.