Kevin’s 2025 NFL sleeper list centers on four late-round bets with clear paths to upside in best-ball formats. Marvin Mims Jr. lands as Denver’s outside option if he earns more routes and targeted volume, turning efficiency into spike-week potential. Isaac Guerendo sits behind Christian McCaffrey in San Francisco and thrives as the prime contingency if McCaffrey misses time, offering strong late-round value. Brenton Strange in Jacksonville profiles as a slot/inline mismatch with room to command targets as Engram’s role remains uncertain. Matthew Stafford proves a steady floor play in Los Angeles, where the supporting cast and McVay’s scheme could push him toward a multi- TD, 4,000-yard season if he remains efficient. The piece stresses that true late-round gold comes from players with traits plus favorable situations, not just pedigree.

San Francisco’s preseason backfield was thin from the start, with Christian McCaffrey, Isaac Guerendo and Jordan James sidelined. Ameer Abdullah shouldered the early load, but a third‑quarter rib hit forced him out and left the 49ers with Ke'Shawn Vaughn stepping in after being signed just days earlier. The immediate shift underscored how quickly depth can get taxed in the warmups.

Abdullah’s rugged veteran presence was complemented briefly by Patrick Taylor Jr., Corey Kiner, and Abdullah before the injury, with Vaughn poised to absorb extra snaps the rest of the night. Abdullah’s background—All‑Big Ten standout at Nebraska, then a career across several NFL stops—highlights the volatility and value of veteran depth in SF’s backfield. Vaughn’s arrival could illuminate a path to a broader role if Abdullah misses time.

Fantasy angles center on Abdullah’s health and Vaughn’s integration. If Abdullah is sidelined, Vaughn could become the immediate lead for early downs and short-yardage, while Kiner may compete for change‑of‑pace touches. The Broncos game amplified SF’s need for flexibility behind a top option, making Abdullah’s status a key monitor as Week 1 approaches.

Bottom line: this game illustrated SF’s willingness to test options behind McCaffrey, with a veteran’s injury opening the door for Vaughn and potentially elevating Kiner and the rest of the depth chart in fantasy projections to start the season.

As fantasy football enthusiasts gear up for the 2025 season, identifying undervalued players can be pivotal for success. Key sleepers include J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings, poised for a breakout with a talented supporting cast including Justin Jefferson and T.J. Hockenson. Trevor Lawrence is also a notable pick; last season’s struggles could deter many, but with improved weapons and coaching, he stands to reclaim his former glory. J.K. Dobbins, now with the Denver Broncos, shows promise as a potential RB2 if he stays healthy, while Isaac Guerendo is likely to benefit from the 49ers' RB injuries to shine in his second season.

For receivers, Rome Odunze’s situation with the Chicago Bears could lead to significant production. With Caleb Williams improving the offensive line and target share, he might finally unlock his potential. Keon Coleman of the Buffalo Bills could also emerge as a top option, especially following the departure of Stefon Diggs. Lastly, Brenton Strange of the Jaguars is set to capitalize on increased targets, making him a solid TE2 option. Each of these players represents an opportunity for savvy managers to bolster their rosters at a fraction of the cost.