5 Must-Draft Fantasy Football Players for 2025 (Including a Deep Sleeper!)
May 19, 2025
5 Must-Draft Fantasy Football Players for 2025 (Including a Deep Sleeper!)
May 19, 2025

Fantasy Football League Winners 2025: 5 Must-Have Players

Must Have League Winners 2025!

Must Have League Winners 2025!

When it comes to winning your fantasy football league, it’s not just about the big names—it’s about value, opportunity, talent, and timing. In this ultimate guide, we break down 5 must-draft fantasy football league winners for 2025. These are the players with the best chance to outperform their ADP and deliver the kind of upside that turns solid rosters into championship contenders.

Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy football veteran or gearing up for your first league, this list is your blueprint to 2025 fantasy football domination.

1. RJ Harvey (RB – Denver Broncos)

Why RJ Harvey is a League Winner:

  • Drafted in the 2nd round by the Broncos
  • 4.4 speed with elite cutting and burst
  • 5’10”, 195 lbs, but plays bigger than his size
  • Compared to Alvin Kamara for play style, but Harvey says, “I want to be better.”

Opportunity: Last season, the Broncos ran the ball over 340 times using six backs. With Javonte Williams underwhelming and Estime only managing 76 carries for 310 yards, Harvey steps in as the clear RB1 candidate.

Fantasy Takeaway: While his ADP is rising, savvy drafters are scooping him in Round 4 of competitive leagues. His upside makes him an RB2 with RB1 potential. Forget Swift, Pacheco, and Warren—Harvey is the real breakout candidate in this backfield.

2. Malik Nabers (WR – New York Giants)

Why Malik Nabers is a League Winner:

  • Finished WR6 in 2024 with 170 targets
  • 109 receptions, 1240 yards, 7 touchdowns
  • New QB situation with Russell Wilson and future prospect Jaxson Dart

What Makes Him Elite: Malik Nabers demands the ball, which is what separates WR1s from the pack. In an offense where he’s clearly the top talent, Nabers could see 180+ targets in 2025.

Fantasy Takeaway: Even with names like Chase and Jefferson on the board, Nabers is trending up. He’s a strong first-round pick for those fading RBs early.

Tons of league winning upside for Malik in 2025! (Photo by Randy Litzinger/Icon Sportswire)

3. Bo Nix (QB – Denver Broncos)

Why Bo Nix is a League Winner:

  • 3,700+ passing yards in 2024
  • 29 TDs, 12 INTs
  • 5th in QB rushing attempts (mobile weapon)

Supporting Cast: The Broncos have surrounded Bo Nix with upside: RJ Harvey at RB, and new wideout Pat Bryant, a third-round pick with Deymarius Thomas vibes.

Fantasy Takeaway: You can land Bo Nix as late as Round 10-11. That’s incredible value for a quarterback with top-10 upside. He makes the perfect QB2 or late-round steal for those waiting on the position.

4. Calvin Ridley (WR – Titans)

Why Calvin Ridley is a League Winner:

  • WR1 talent with 120 targets in 2024
  • Playing on a contract worth ~$27M per year
  • Cam Ward now at QB, bringing fresh energy

Concerns? Washington has added rookie Xavier Worthy, Tyler Lockett, and other weapons, but Ridley remains the most proven and dangerous target.

Fantasy Takeaway: At ADP Round 6-7, Ridley is a WR1 you can get after you’ve built your RB base. He’s a value pick with a high floor and ceiling.

5. Tre Harris (WR – Los Angeles Chargers)

Why Tre Harris is a League Winner:

  • Current ADP: Rounds 12-14
  • Rookie with elite hands and yards after catch skills
  • Drafted to fill the WR1 role vacated by Keenan Allen

Depth Chart: With Ladd McConkey drawing 2nd-round buzz, Harris is the better value. He’s the likely WR1 in an offense that still leans on Herbert’s arm.

Fantasy Takeaway: This is the perfect late-round lottery ticket. Harris could see 100+ targets and produce like a Round 5 pick. Don’t be the donkey who drafts Ladd McConkey in Round 2—grab Harris later and win big.

Final Thoughts: Build Your 2025 Roster With League Winners

Drafting these five players isn’t just about hype. It’s about:

  • Opportunity
  • Talent
  • Volume
  • Proven or projected upside

Lock in the names: RJ Harvey, Malik Nabers, Bo Nix, Calvin Ridley, and Trey Harris. These are your fantasy football league winners for 2025.

Before you draft, make sure to grab the 16-Round Draft Solution for the full blueprint. Use code WIN to save 20%.

Joseph Robert
Joseph Robert
Joseph Robert's outside of the box, LION mentality has created the strongest and most loyal fan base in the fantasy football industry! @fantasyfootballcounselor