With training camp buzz heating up and preseason performances under scrutiny, fantasy football managers everywhere are asking one thing: Who’s going to break out this year?

As millions of players gear up for their fantasy drafts, the competition to uncover sleeper picks, breakout stars, and avoidable busts has never been fiercer. Whether you’re entering a casual league with friends or a high-stakes dynasty, your success could hinge on just one bold call—one perfectly timed “Choose,” “Drop,” or “Hold.”

Below, we dive deep into this season’s potential difference-makers across running backs (RBs) and wide receivers (WRs), two of the most volatile yet impactful positions in fantasy. We’ve broken it down into a simple and addictive format: Choose – Drop – Hold. Let’s jump in.

CHOOSE: The Breakouts Who Could Win You Your League

RB: Tyjae Spears (Tennessee Titans)

How many positions will rookie Tyjae Spears play for the Tennessee Titans

With Derrick Henry gone and a new-look Titans offense under Brian Callahan, Tyjae Spears is primed for a major leap in 2025. His dual-threat ability as both a rusher and receiver makes him a perfect mid-round steal. Reports from camp say he’s receiving “workhorse-level reps,” and his pass-catching upside makes him especially valuable in PPR formats.

Why Choose:

Clear path to touches
Explosive speed and vision
Ideal for RB2/FLEX with RB1 upside

WR: Rome Odunze (Chicago Bears)

Chicago Is Just Like Home To New Bears WR Rome Odunze

Yes, Odunze is technically a rookie, but don’t let that fool you. With Caleb Williams slinging it and defenses focusing on DJ Moore and Keenan Allen, Odunze could see soft coverage and deep targets early and often. He’s been described by scouts as “NFL-ready,” and his contested catch ability could make him this year’s Nico Collins.

Why Choose:

Dynamic vertical threat
Chemistry already building with Caleb Williams
Strong red-zone potential

DROP: The Overhyped Names You Should Let Someone Else Take

RB: Austin Ekeler (Washington Commanders)

New team, new system, and declining efficiency—Ekeler may no longer be the PPR cheat code he once was. Washington’s offense is young and volatile, and the presence of Brian Robinson Jr. complicates Ekeler’s touch count. Age and injuries are catching up fast.

Why Drop:

Diminished explosiveness in 2024
Risk of touchdown vulturing
ADP still inflated from past reputation

WR: Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos)

Receiver Courtland Sutton agrees to 4-year, $92 million extension with Broncos, AP source says

Despite occasional flashes, Sutton remains one of the most inconsistent fantasy WRs. With Bo Nix under center and an emerging rookie corps, Sutton’s ceiling is lower than ever. He’s had just one 1,000-yard season (2019), and his red-zone value has plummeted.

Why Drop:

QB uncertainty
Younger options may leapfrog him
Zero WR1 upside

HOLD: The Reliable Stars You Shouldn’t Overthink

RB: James Cook (Buffalo Bills)

There’s been offseason chatter about the Bills diversifying their run game, but James Cook remains the centerpiece. He finished 2024 with over 1,500 scrimmage yards and continues to be a consistent source of PPR points. With Damien Harris gone, expect even more red-zone opportunities.

Why Hold:

High floor, strong passing game role
Improved offensive line
Low injury history, durable build

WR: Chris Olave (New Orleans Saints)

The Saints Desperately Need Chris Olave to Break Out – The Lead

Despite a rocky year with inconsistent QB play, Olave still managed over 1,000 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2024. With Derek Carr looking more comfortable and rookie WRs drawing attention, Olave could feast on WR2 corners all season long. He’s a strong WR1 candidate available in the third round of most drafts.

Why Hold:

Elite route-runner
Chemistry with Carr improving
Strong end-of-season schedule

BONUS SLEEPERS TO STASH LATE

RB: Kendre Miller (New Orleans Saints) – If Kamara slows down or gets injured, Miller could take over as a 3-down back. Explosive in open space.
WR: Jalin Hyatt (New York Giants) – His second-year leap could be real, especially with improved QB play and expanded route tree.
TE: Luke Musgrave (Green Bay Packers) – Jordan Love loves throwing to TEs in the red zone. Musgrave’s role is growing rapidly.

Join the Conversation: Who Are YOUR “Choose – Drop – Hold” Picks This Year?

Fantasy football isn’t just about points—it’s about pride, bragging rights, and proving you know more than your friends. So here’s the challenge:

Comment your picks:

1 Player You’re Choosing
1 You’re Dropping
1 You’re Holding
Tag your league and spark the debate. You might just win your league before the season even starts.

Final Draft Tips for 2025

Don’t overvalue rookies in redraft leagues—except the ones in prime opportunities (see: Odunze, Nabers).
PPR is king. Prioritize pass-catching RBs and WRs with high target share.
Wait on QBs unless you’re grabbing a top-3 elite (Hurts, Allen, Mahomes).
Depth wins leagues. Always draft for value, not hype.

Monitor training camp injuries and late-breaking depth chart shifts.

This year’s draft is full of landmines and league-winners. The smart players won’t just follow consensus—they’ll challenge it. So take a deep breath, trust your gut, and make your picks count.

Let the 2025 fantasy football season begin.