Pro Football Focus has projected that 24 players with ties to Utah schools will be among the starters for the 2025 NFL season. This projection highlights the growing influence of Utah athletes in the league, as approximately half of the 51.2 players from Utah schools making initial rosters in recent years are expected to contribute significantly this season.

The University of Utah leads with seven projected starters, closely followed by BYU with six. Notable names include Tyler Allgeier from the Atlanta Falcons and Matt Gay of the Washington Commanders, who is the only kicker on their roster. Players from Utah State, Weber State, Southern Utah, and those who attended high schools in Utah also contribute to this trend.

The Atlanta Falcons are poised to maximize their offensive potential with a deep and versatile running back unit featuring Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, and promising talents like Carlos Washington Jr. and Jase McClellan. Robinson's dual-threat capability as a running back and receiver sets a dynamic tone, while Allgeier's workhorse mentality ensures a strong ground game. The Falcons’ commitment to run-heavy schemes will complement their strategic evaluations of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., enhancing their ability to keep defenses on their toes.

The NFC South is making waves as a potential powerhouse in the running back department for the 2025 season. Maurice Moton from Bleacher Report highlights that three of the top five RB duos in the league are situated within this division, which previously struggled to field a playoff-worthy team last year.

Leading the charge is the Atlanta Falcons with the dynamic duo of Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. Robinson's impressive stats from the previous season, including over 1,400 rushing yards, pair well with Allgeier’s prowess in the red zone. The Carolina Panthers follow closely behind, with Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle showcasing their skills. Meanwhile, Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints is facing challenges as he navigates injuries and age while adapting to a changing offensive scheme.

Tyler Allgeier has risen from a late-round draft pick to become a standout running back, boasting an impressive 91.2 rushing grade over the past three seasons, ranking him seventh among his peers. In the Atlanta Falcons' run-oriented offense, Allgeier holds significant value as the primary backup, particularly if Bijan Robinson faces any absences. The Falcons' reliance on a zone-blocking scheme allows Allgeier to showcase his talent and make an impact in fantasy leagues.

Starting his career as the 151st overall pick in the 2022 draft, Allgeier entered a competitive running back landscape. Despite initial challenges, including the loss of starter Damien Williams to injury, he has proven himself as a reliable option for fantasy managers. With a solid performance in a run-heavy system, Allgeier is positioned to be a fantasy must-start if called upon, offering a promising return on investment for savvy drafters.

Aidan Hutchinson's performance in the 2022 NFL Draft class has set a high bar, boasting a remarkable 92.3 PFF grade, while Kyle Hamilton and Tyler Linderbaum from the Baltimore Ravens also shine with elite grades in their positions. The class's unexpected standout is Brock Purdy from San Francisco, who, drafted last, has emerged as the standout quarterback with a 90.2 PFF grade. Atlanta Falcons' Tyler Allgeier is making waves with the highest running back grade at 92.0 despite being overshadowed by Bijan Robinson. Wide receiver Drake London also excels with a 90.1 PFF grade, establishing strong chemistry with new quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The tight end position sees Trey McBride of the Cardinals making significant strides, earning a Pro Bowl selection with impressive stats. Other notable mentions include Bernhard Raimann of the Colts and Tyler Linderbaum of the Ravens, both of whom are critical to their teams' success, particularly in the offensive line.