The 2025 NFL preseason is winding down, which means fantasy football draft season is here. It’s about time, right?
The 2024 NFL Draft brought in a host of offensive talents, many of whom made quite an impact right from the start. Players like Jaden Daniels, Bucky Irving, Malik Nabers, and Brock Bowers stood out as rookies with their impressive performances.
However, let’s shift gears. We’re focusing on those in the tier just below the stars. Whether they climb the depth chart or simply build on last season’s experiences, there are second-year players poised to break out and become valuable assets on fantasy rosters. We’ll highlight some of these players and incorporate PPR rankings for clarity.
Drake May, New England Patriots
2024 Fantasy Finish: QB23 (14.4 FPPG)
Current ADP: QB16, 123 overall
May had a decent rookie season, being one of the few highlights for the 4-13 Patriots. Drafted third overall last year, he threw for 12 touchdowns and 10 interceptions, completing 66.6% of his passes for 2,276 yards, along with 421 rushing yards at a solid 7.8 yards per carry. Sure, part of his running was due to the team’s struggles in pass protection, but his mobility certainly caught the eye of many.
With a supportive environment headed by coach Mike Vrabel and veteran offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, along with key targets like Stephon Diggs and newly acquired left tackle Will Campbell, May looks primed for a strong sophomore campaign. If everything falls into place this offseason, he could easily find himself among the top 10 fantasy quarterbacks by season’s end.
Blairon Allen, New York Jets
2024 Fantasy Finish: RB51 (5.0 FPPG)
Current ADP: RB50, 147 overall
Allen, standing at 6’1″ and weighing 235 pounds, was drafted in the fourth round last year. He was mainly a backup to Breece Hall, finishing the season with 334 rushing yards and 148 receiving yards, scoring three touchdowns along the way. Entering his second year, he benefits from a new coaching staff that hopes to replicate the success of the Lions’ explosive offense.
Even though trade rumors have circulated regarding Hall, the coaching team plans to utilize all their running backs this season, and one wouldn’t be surprised to see a second-year breakout from Allen.
Blake Corum, Los Angeles Rams
2024 Fantasy Finish: WR80 (2.2 FPPG)
Current ADP: RB65, 242 overall
Corum also spent his rookie season mostly as a backup, accumulating modest numbers with 207 rushing yards on 58 carries. He had the chance to start in the final game against the Seahawks but unfortunately suffered a broken forearm that kept him out of the postseason.
This year, with starter Kyren Williams dominating touches in last season, Corum may see more opportunities as McVay’s running back committee approach is employed. If he shows well in training camp, Corum could definitely be an interesting fantasy pickup.
Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers
2024 Fantasy Finish: WR82 (8.5 FPPG)
Current ADP: WR41, 92 overall
Pearsall has been generating buzz as a breakout candidate this season. The former Arizona
and Florida receiver faced a setback last year when he was shot just before the season opener but managed to debut in Week 7. Throughout the season, he earned 31 targets, resulting in 400 yards and three touchdowns, and really showcased his potential in the final weeks, particularly with a touchdown against the Lions.
Now, the 49ers’ receiving corps looks quite different. With Deebo Samuel traded to Washington and Brandon Aiyuk dealing with injuries, Pearsall might find himself in a prime position to shine alongside George Kittle. The circumstances are favorable for him to step up.
Xavier Worthy, Kansas City Chiefs
2024 Fantasy Finish: WR33 (11.0 FPPG)
Current ADP: WR23, 53 overall
Chosen in the first round of 2024, Worthy quickly became a favored target for Patrick Mahomes after Travis Kelce. He ended up with 59 targets, 638 yards, and six touchdowns, making a memorable mark even in the Super Bowl where he recorded a rookie record of 159 yards.
As Kansas City looks for a breakout wide receiver this season, Worthy could rise to the occasion, especially considering the lack of a 1,000-yard receiver since Tyreek Hill’s departure. If he continues to develop, Worthy may just become Mahomes’ top option by the end of the year.
Ja’tavion Sanders, Carolina Panthers
2024 Fantasy Finish: TE36 (4.6 FPPG)
Current ADP: TE29, 239 overall
Sanders is someone to keep an eye on as he could become a key piece of the Carolina offense this season. As a rookie, he stepped up when Tommy Tremble was injured, putting together 33 receptions for 342 yards and a touchdown. His potential may have been greater if not for a neck injury he suffered last November.
Moving forward, it’s worth noting that he led the team in yards after catch last season. His ability to make plays after receiving the ball could be crucial, especially as Tremble recovers from surgery. Sanders may present a huge opportunity for fantasy managers looking for a rising tight end.
