Year after year, the fantasy football community watches as apparent WR2s put up WR1 numbers. With the downfall of old faithfuls such as Cooper Kupp and Deebo Samuel Sr., the time has come to discover who’s up next for fantasy stardom. As old names die out, new talents seamlessly emerge. A fresh crop of wide receivers is destined to break out as the NFL landscape evolves in 2025. Here are four WR2s who could finish as WR1s in fantasy football leagues this year.
Odunze’s production fell well short of expectations in his rookie season. After only hauling in three touchdowns on 101 targets, the sophomore will look to bounce back in 2025. The arrival of offensive guru Ben Johnson as head coach has football fans ecstatic in Chicago. Despite having a plethora of talent on the roster last year, the offensive unit remained one of the worst in the league. Bears fans’ hopes are unanimously high, with dreams of the team’s talent finally flourishing into production.
Despite his lackluster rookie season, Odunze remains a blue-chip prospect. With the arrival of a new head coach, the departure of wide receiver Keenan Allen, and the development of the player himself, a breakout could be on the horizon. If the offense finds a way to improve this season, many would expect the receiver to shatter his current ADP as WR37.
For an in-depth breakdown on Odunze, check out the full take here.
The rookie receiver was taken by the Texans in this year’s draft with the 34th overall pick. He brings to the table a unique combination of size, speed, and proven college production. Standing at an exceptional 6’4”, Higgins put a 4.47 40-yard dash on tape. At Iowa State, the receiver tallied 1,183 yards alongside nine touchdowns in 2024 alone.
After losing Tank Dell to a gruesome injury late last season, the team is in desperate need of another receiving option to step up alongside Nico Collins. Higgins could surprise people in week one and serve as an exciting fantasy option all year long.
Even after finishing last season as the WR31, Mooney is currently being drafted as the WR48 in fantasy drafts. Questions surrounding the offense leave many fantasy managers hesitant to select the receiver in 2025. But there is no need to fear, the offense and Mooney only look to build off the success they found last season.
Mooney ranked second in the league for receptions over 20 yards. This stat, coupled with his 106 targets, makes him an asset that is only one play away from winning fantasy managers a week at a moment’s notice. With Michael Penix now serving as the team’s starting quarterback, the collective offense seeks to bring a new spark to the franchise. Returning them to the offensive ease they once knew.
In terms of competition, the Falcons made no substantial moves in the offseason that would indicate them looking to replace the receiver. Mooney is a fairly safe bet to meet his current ADP in 2025.
Coming into last season, many hoped Coleman would serve as the Bills’ WR1. A valuable asset considering it’s one of the best offenses in the NFL. Despite countless red zone trips, rarely did we hear the receiver’s name called through the speakers after a score.
Despite his disappointing rookie season, there is still hope for the receiver to emerge as Josh Allen’s top target. The competition in Buffalo remains light, and as long as Josh Allen is leading the squad, points will be scored.
For an in-depth breakdown on Coleman, you can check out my full take here.
As the 2025 fantasy football season approaches, these WR2s offer tremendous upside to elevate one’s rosters to championship contention. Keep an eye on these emerging talents as they could be the key to securing a fantasy football title this year.
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*The statistics used in this article are based on the half-PPR format provided by fantasypros.
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