Excitement builds as mandatory minicamps and OTAs set the stage for the 2025 NFL season, signaling it’s time for fantasy football enthusiasts to gear up for drafting. With potential breakout rookies waiting to make their mark, selecting the right players is crucial. Here’s a look at five standout rookie prospects to consider in the final rounds of your drafts.

Tahj Brooks, a RB for the Bengals, stands out for his pass protection skills and consistency as a down-to-down runner, making him a smart bench stash behind the explosive Chase Brown. Jarquez Hunter of the Rams combines power and burst but must improve his creativity to complement Kyren Williams. Bhayshul Tuten of the Jaguars offers game-changing speed, although his rookie production could be volatile. Pat Bryant, a WR for the Broncos, is compared to Mike Thomas and has shown exceptional scoring ability, despite the stiff competition for playing time. Finally, Devin Neal of the Saints presents a low-risk, high-reward option, especially with the potential decline of veteran Alvin Kamara.

As the NFL offseason transitions from free agency and the draft to training camp, fantasy football enthusiasts are gearing up for best ball and dynasty drafts. With a surplus of talented running backs overlooked in this year’s draft, several sleeper candidates have emerged, particularly for dynasty leagues. DJ Giddens of the Indianapolis Colts stands out with impressive stats from his time at Kansas State, showing potential as a significant contributor in the Colts' backfield alongside Jonathan Taylor.

Jacory Croskey-Merritt, despite limited college exposure, has shown promise during the pre-draft process and could carve out a role with the Washington Commanders. Tahj Brooks has also caught attention with a dominant late-college career, finding a place with the Cincinnati Bengals. The New Orleans Saints' Devin Neal and Green Bay Packers' MarShawn Lloyd offer intriguing options worth monitoring as well.

Tahj Brooks, the new running back for the Cincinnati Bengals, presents a compelling option for fantasy football enthusiasts in 2025 rookie drafts. Selected in the sixth round of the NFL Draft, Brooks boasts an impressive college background, where he became Texas Tech's all-time leading rusher, totaling over 1,500 rushing yards in consecutive seasons. His combination of size, speed, and proven production offers a unique value proposition for dynasty league players.

Given the Bengals' offensive scheme, which maximizes the potential of versatile running backs, Brooks could emerge as a key asset in fantasy lineups. The projected opportunity for touches, combined with his ability to contribute in both rushing and receiving roles, positions him as a sleeper to watch in the upcoming season.

With the Bengals preparing for the upcoming NFL season, the competition for the RB2 position is heating up. Tahj Brooks, Samaje Perine, and Zack Moss are all vying for this crucial role behind Joe Mixon. Each brings unique skills to the field, with Brooks showcasing agility and speed, Perine known for his power running, and Moss adding versatility with his ability to catch passes out of the backfield.

The depth chart's dynamics are critical for fantasy football enthusiasts; understanding how these players fit into the Bengals' game plan could influence drafting decisions. As the preseason unfolds, close attention to their performance in scrimmages and games will offer insights into who might emerge as the primary backup, impacting fantasy lineups and potential league outcomes.