Fantasy Football Today - FFT Express Episode Summary
Episode Title: FFT Express - AFC North Preview: Sleepers, Breakouts & Busts for 2025 Drafts
Release Date: July 11, 2025
Host/Analysts: Adam Azer, Jamey Eisenberg, Dave Richard, Heath Cummings, and Jimmy Azenberg
Introduction
In this episode of FFT Express, hosted by Adam Azer and featuring analyst Jimmy Azenberg, the focus is on providing a comprehensive preview of the AFC North for the 2025 Fantasy Football drafts. The discussion delves into identifying sleepers, breakouts, and busts within the division, offering valuable insights to help fantasy managers dominate their leagues.
Sleepers in the AFC North
Cedric Tillman: A Hidden Gem
Jimmy Azenberg highlights Cedric Tillman as a primary sleeper candidate for the AFC North:
"If Tillman can be guaranteed to be that second receiver, third target in the passing game, there's a lot to love about his value, which is basically free on draft day." ([02:06])
Despite limited playing time in previous games, Tillman's familiarity with quarterback Joe Flacco and his potential to emerge as a consistent target make him an enticing late-round pick.
Other Potential Sleepers:
- Isaiah Likely: Potential Pro Bowler with increased target volume.
- Handcuff Running Backs: Players like Keaton Mitchell for the Ravens and Samaj P Run for the Bengals offer high upside if primary backs face injuries or share carries.
Breakout Candidates in the AFC North
Caleb Johnson: Stepping into a Larger Role
Jimmy identifies Caleb Johnson as a strong breakout candidate:
"Caleb Johnson... averag[ing] just over 11 PPR points per game when he was sharing the ball with Harris. He's going to play on passing downs, so both these guys have an opportunity here." ([04:36])
With the departure of Najee Harris, Johnson is poised to take on a significant role in the Steelers' backfield, potentially becoming a top flex option.
DK Metcalf: Returning to Form
DK Metcalf is another player with breakout potential:
"There’s a chance here for Metcalf to sort of remind you of who he was early in his career when people were talking about him as the best receiver in dynasty." ([05:27])
After a challenging previous season plagued by injuries, Metcalf's health and quarterback play improvements could propel him back to elite status.
Jalen Warren: Consistent Performer
Jalen Warren is also on the radar for a breakout year:
"Jalen Warren can be more of a sleeper; Johnson more of a breakout, but I like to try and get one of these Steelers running backs." ([04:46])
His role in the Steelers' offense, especially in the passing game, positions him well for increased fantasy production.
Potential Busts in the AFC North
Devonte Smith: Overhyped Expectations
Jimmy labels Devonte Smith as a probable bust:
"Devonte Smith where it's just, it's never gonna happen because they don't throw enough." ([10:09])
Smith's talent isn't translating into fantasy points due to limited target volume and stiff competition for touches within the offense.
Zay Flowers: Underperforming Talent
Another player under scrutiny is Zay Flowers:
"He's in the blob. He definitely is in the blob. You know, 20 through 40. He belongs there." ([11:34])
Despite impressive talent and target potential, Flowers hasn't matched his fantasy expectations, leading analysts to caution against overvaluing him in drafts.
Jeremy Judy: Limited Production
Jeremy Judy is also considered a bust candidate due to:
"Jeremy Judy based on what he showed in this, the sample size with Jameis Winston could easily be a breakout candidate if he could do it over 17 games." ([06:35])
However, inconsistency and limited involvement in the passing game under Jameis Winston have hindered his fantasy prospects.
Audience Interaction and Insights
Twitter Poll on Rookie Breakouts
Adam Azer engaged with listeners through a Twitter poll asking, "Can you be a breakout as a rookie?" The results showed a split:
- 62% Yes
- 38% No
Adam expressed skepticism:
"I am firmly in the no camp. You apparently are in the yes camp." ([06:47])
Despite differing opinions, he acknowledged the potential for certain rookies like Zay Flowers to exceed expectations based on their target volume and talent.
Notable Insights:
- Offensive Schemes Matter: Teams with pass-heavy strategies or dynamic quarterbacks can enhance a player’s fantasy value.
- Injury Implications: Backup running backs with high upside become valuable in case of injuries to primary backs.
- Late-Round Value: Targeting low-cost sleepers like Tillman can provide significant returns without heavy investment.
Conclusion
The FFT Express episode provides a nuanced analysis of the AFC North, offering fantasy managers actionable insights into which players to target or avoid in the 2025 drafts. By identifying sleepers like Cedric Tillman, breakout candidates such as Caleb Johnson and DK Metcalf, and potential busts like Devonte Smith and Zay Flowers, Adam Azer and Jimmy Azenberg equip listeners with the knowledge needed to make informed draft decisions and dominate their fantasy leagues.
Stay tuned for future episodes where the team will continue to dissect emerging trends, player performances, and strategic moves to keep you ahead in the fantasy football game.
Notable Quotes:
- "If Tillman can be guaranteed to be that second receiver... he's free on draft day." — Jimmy Azenberg ([02:06])
- "Caleb Johnson... is going to play on passing downs." — Jimmy Azenberg ([04:36])
- "Zay Flowers... belongs in the blob." — Jimmy Azenberg ([11:34])
- "I am firmly in the no camp... of you people?" — Adam Azer ([06:47])
Stay Connected:
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