At Interesting Football, we've brought you the top 10 breakout candidates for fantasy football in 2025/2026 with expert analysis, positional insights, and strategic angles that will help you decide your team.
If you want to be successful with your NFL Fantasy Football, then you must identify the breakout players before your league mates do.
1. Caleb Williams (QB, Chicago Bears)
Why we picked him: Williams heads into the second year with a revamped offence under head coach Ben Johnson, who has been applauded for creative play design.
Fantasy Football Angle: He comes with dual-threat upside and an improved offensive line that puts him on the map of the best QBs in the league.
Draft Strategy: To ensure a higher success rate, you should target in mid-rounds as a high-upside QB2 with QB1 potential.
2. Jaxson Dart (QB, New York Giants)
Why we picked him: Dart was the No. 25 overall pick in 2025 and has continued to impress in camp. He is one of the key players and an important fantasy football pick for you.
Fantasy Football Angle: Dart could be compared to the likes of C.J. Stroud this season amid the competition he faces from the young talents around him.
Draft Strategy: Do a late-round flyer in superflex and dynasty formats.
3. Trey Benson (RB, Arizona Cardinals)
Why we picked him: He takes on a lead role in a run-first offence amid minimal competition.
Fantasy Football Angle: Benson is an impressive runner known for his pass-catching chops, which could reach as high as 250+ touches.
Draft Strategy: RB2 with RB1 upside in PPR formats.
4. Tyjae Spears (RB, Tennessee Titans)
Why we picked him: The next player we think will break out this season is Tyjae Spears, who is set to lead the backfield.
Fantasy Football Angle: His ability to burst and receive makes him a genius PPR player.
Draft Strategy: Do a pick in the mid-round.
5. Quentin Johnston (WR, Los Angeles Chargers)
Why we picked him: Johnston was outstanding during late 2024 and now steps into a WR1 role.
Fantasy Football Angle: He offers a big-play threat along with a red-zone upside in a pass-heavy offence.
Draft Strategy: WR3 with weekly WR2 ceiling.
6. Marvin Mims Jr. (WR, Denver Broncos)
Why we picked him: He is known for his impressive speed and snaps.
Fantasy Football Angle: Mins also offers a deep threat.
Draft Strategy: Best-ball gem and late-round sleeper.
7. Luke Musgrave (TE, Green Bay Packers)
Why we picked him: He is known for his versatility and athleticism as well as route-running, which makes him stand out and suitable in his position.
Fantasy Football Angle: Musgrave could be making the list of the top-rated TEs.
Draft Strategy: Go for zero-TE builds and late-round value.
8. Rashee Rice (WR, Kansas City Chiefs)
Why we picked him: He was brilliant in late 2024 and now leads KC’s WR room.
Fantasy Football Angle:
Draft Strategy: WR2 upside in full-PPR formats.
9. Tank Dell (WR, Houston Texans)
Why we picked him: He was selected due to his chemistry with C.J. Stroud.
Fantasy Football Angle: He is known for his high catch rate as well as YAC ability.
Draft Strategy: WR3 with WR1 weeks.
10. Jayden Reed (WR, Green Bay Packers)
Why we picked him: He is an emerging talent.
Fantasy Football Angle: Reed is a versatile player with a rushing upside.
Draft Strategy: Flex starter.
How to be successful and areas to exploit
Positional Value
- Ensure to target breakout QBs later on in order to avoid early-round busts.
- Running backs with receiving upside are valuable in PPR formats.
- WRs in ascending offences are a great choice for you, as they offer weekly consistency.
Dynasty & Keeper Leagues
- Ensure you focus on rookies plus experienced or second-year players who have been known for their volume.
- Also, know that breakout stars could become a long-term asset for your team.
Best Ball Formats
- Ensure you focus on high-variance WRs.
- Go for late-round TEs.