Jaylen Warren is the focal point as 2025 fantasy prep centers on the Steelers after Najee Harris departs. Kaleb Johnson lands as an early-down answer, but Arthur Smith-era ambiguity and Rodgers’ measured pace could limit overall volume. Cordarrelle Patterson and Jonnu Smith join a pass game that aims to diversify targets, while Rodgers’ slower tempo keeps play totals in check. Warren’s health is restored, but his weekly upside remains capped with Johnson absorbing more work.

Draft strategy centerpoints Warren’s floor and the Johnson split, with Patterson and Smith offering veteran, high-floor upside in the passing game. Rodgers’ pace reduces big-volume weeks, making red-zone chances and breakouts more stochastic. In shallow leagues Warren may still offer FLEX value, while Johnson is a late-round dart with upside if he seizes early-down work.

Travis Kelce’s rise from a 63rd‑overall pick in 2013 to one of the era’s most reliable pass targets reshaped how fantasy managers view late‑round gems. Kelce led the class in receptions (1,004) and sits near the top in yards (12,151) and TDs (77), underscoring why he remains a cornerstone KC’s offense. DeAndre Hopkins joined the Chiefs in 2024 via a Titans trade, creating a high‑end duo that keeps KC’s passing game diverse and dangerous. Kelce’s four All‑Pros tie Cordarrelle Patterson for most among the 2013 draftees, a reminder that stars can emerge far from the first round.

The piece also revisits the top 2013 pick, Eric Fisher, KC’s longtime left tackle who helped pave Mahomes’ path to glory and a Super Bowl win. Kelce and Fisher shared eight seasons together, with Kelce entering his 13th KC season in 2025. The draft class itself is characterized as light on blue‑chip QBs and stars, but Kelce’s ascent stands out as a blueprint for how late picks can anchor an all‑time great fantasy career. Hopkins’ KC reunion adds a wrinkle for Week‑to‑Week planning, hinting at more balanced defenses facing KC’s weapons and potential tweaks in target distribution for fantasy rosters.

Cordarrelle Patterson, a versatile player known for his kick return prowess, has been released by the Pittsburgh Steelers after a season with the team. At 34, Patterson, who holds the NFL record for most kick return touchdowns, is now looking for his seventh NFL team. Originally drafted by the Minnesota Vikings, Patterson's career has seen him excel in various roles, including his recent transition to running back, which peaked during a successful season with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021.

The announcement of his release came via a post on X, where Patterson humorously referred to himself as "old washed up Cordarrelle Patterson." This marks a significant juncture in his career, prompting questions about where he might land next and how his unique skill set can contribute to a new team.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have decided to part ways with Cordarrelle Patterson, a move he announced himself via Twitter. This release comes after Patterson signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the team in 2024, which included a $3.2 million payout for the first year and a planned $2.8 million for 2025. The decision allows the Steelers to create approximately $1.85 million in salary cap space. This marks a notable moment in Patterson's career, which has spanned over a decade in the league.