2025 NFL Preseason: Fantasy Football Draft Insights
The NFL preseason for 2025 is winding down, and that means it’s time to gear up for fantasy football drafts. Finally, we’re diving into the thick of things.
Picking the right sleeper is crucial for building a championship-worthy roster; it can really make a difference. This is especially true when it comes to running backs. Depth at this position can really set your team apart.
In a typical fantasy league with about 10-12 teams, it’s possible to find a promising starting or flex RB option among the top 35 players. After that, you start encountering backups or handcuffs, and one of these later selections could surprise you and turn out to be a more valuable pick than expected, perhaps due to an injury or a change in the depth chart.
Here are four deep sleeper running backs to think about before your draft. We’re defining a deep sleeper as one currently ranked below 39 in average draft position (ADP). Let’s get into it.
Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots
Much attention is on rookie Trevion Henderson, but don’t overlook veteran Stevenson, now in his fifth season with the Patriots. He had a significant role last year with 801 yards and seven touchdowns, despite an underwhelming average of 3.9 yards per carry. This isn’t all on him, though; the offensive line struggled, ranking among the bottom 10.
This season, things look relatively stable for the Patriots with new head coach Mike Vrabel and returning offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Stevenson experienced considerable action in McDaniels’ offense back in 2021, and there’s a reasonable chance we’ll see a similar reliance this season.
If you opt for a veteran later in the draft, Stevenson could be an excellent choice, especially if one of your starters happens to be sidelined that week.
Isaac Guerendo, San Francisco 49ers
When Mason faced injuries last season, third stringer Guerendo stepped up nicely. The Louisville rookie wrapped up the year with 420 rushing yards, averaging five yards per carry, along with four touchdowns. He also contributed 152 receiving yards. In four games, he logged over 55% of the offensive snaps, suggesting the staff may lean heavily on him again if injuries hit the top two running backs.
With Mason out, Guerendo looks to fill the RB2 role in San Francisco, especially given his preseason shoulder injury. Some believe he could turn out to be one of the more valuable backups this season, particularly since Christian McCaffrey is nearing 30 and has a history of injuries. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Guerendo getting more opportunities as the season unfolds.
Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons
Allgeier has been a name to watch. He’s in a position that may be somewhat precarious, entering what could be his last season with the Falcons. After a standout rookie year with over 1,000 yards, he found himself lower on the depth chart when Bijan Robinson joined the team. Yet, Allgeier still offers solid production as a backup, consistently racking up over 600 rushing yards.
Drafting Allgeier in the later rounds could be worthwhile, especially since this is the final year of his contract. He’ll be looking to demonstrate his value as a potential RB1 for free agency next year. Notably, the Dallas Cowboys have already shown interest, and if Allgeier performs well, other teams might come knocking too.
Shipley, Philadelphia Eagles
Shipley is making waves in training camp and could very well secure the RB2 spot come week one. He hasn’t had much playing time, tallying only 30 carries for 82 yards as a rookie. This wasn’t unexpected, given the presence of Saquon Barkley and others dominating carries last season. Yet, he had a few flashes of potential during crucial moments.
With his low ADP, drafting Shipley later might just be a steal for future fantasy managers. He has potential as Barkley’s handcuff and could surprise many if given the opportunity.
