Fantasy Football Today – Episode: Unveiling 14 Breakouts for 2025, Plus Big NFL News (04/02 Fantasy Football Podcast)

Release Date: April 2, 2025

Hosted by Adam Aizer alongside analysts Dave Richard, Jamey Eisenberg, Heath Cummings, and the CBS Sports Fantasy Football team, this episode of Fantasy Football Today offers an in-depth exploration of potential breakout players for the 2025 season and covers significant NFL news that could impact fantasy league strategies.

1. Quarterback Showdown: Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, and Drake May

The episode kicks off with a lively discussion about the latest Twitter poll surveying listeners on which quarterback they plan to draft in a 6-point-per-passing-touchdown league: Caleb Williams, Bo Nix, or Drake May. The poll results reveal Caleb Williams leading with 40%, Bo Nix closely following at 37%, and Drake May trailing at 23%.

Dave Richard ([03:52]) provides a statistical breakdown:

"Caleb Williams was the number 22 quarterback per game last season, while Bo Nix was the number 9. Even excluding Bo's standout Week 18 performance, he'd remain a top 10 QB per game."

Heath Cummings ([04:26]) weighs in on their potential:

"Caleb Williams could improve 15 in his fantasy production this coming season and still not be as good as Bo Nix was. Bo Nix can certainly improve as well."

Jamey Eisenberg ([06:30]) adds insights on drafting strategies:

"All three quarterbacks have received upgrades. Bo Nix may offer more consistency, but Caleb Williams' upside is substantial with the improved offensive line in Chicago."

Notable Quote:

Dave Richard ([05:06]): "Caleb Williams could improve 15 in his fantasy production this coming season and still not be as good as Bo Nix was."

2. Evaluating Sack and Interception Rates

The discussion shifts to the quarterbacks' performance metrics, focusing on sack rates and interception percentages. Caleb Williams' sack rate stands at 28.2% per pressure, second only to rookie Kyler Murray at 26.1%. Drake May's interception rate is 3%, making him the seventh worst in the NFL last season.

Jamey Eisenberg ([10:41]) emphasizes the challenges:

"Caleb Williams' high sack and interception rates are concerning, but rookies can adjust and improve over time."

Dave Richard ([06:30]) remains cautiously optimistic:

"Caleb has proven he can be productive despite these setbacks, especially with coaching improvements."

Notable Quote:

Heath Cummings ([12:45]): "Caleb Williams' high sack and interception rates need to improve, but there's room for growth based on rookie precedents."

3. NFL News and Owner's Meetings Recap

The hosts recap key takeaways from recent NFL owner meetings and other significant news:

• Devonte Smith's Performance: Despite the absence of Dallas Goddard, Devonte Smith has been a standout performer with 94 catches, 1,353 yards, and 12 touchdowns over 16 games, positioning him as a top 10 wide receiver in fantasy rankings.

• Aaron Rodgers Signing: Art Rooney, owner of the Steelers, expressed optimism about signing Aaron Rodgers, which could have far-reaching implications for both teams involved.

• Player Updates:

  • Rasheed Rice: On track to be healthy for training camp after tearing his LCL in Week 4.
  • Mark Andrews: Expected to remain with the Baltimore Ravens, maintaining his status as a reliable tight end option.

Adam Aizer ([20:00]) summarizes Devonte Smith's impact:

"Over the last three seasons, Devonte Smith has maintained a top 10 wide receiver status even without Dallas Goddard, making him a reliable fantasy asset."

4. Breakout Candidates for 2025 Fantasy Season

A significant portion of the episode focuses on identifying breakout candidates expected to excel in the upcoming season. The mutual favorites between Jamie Eisenberg and Heath Cummings include:

• Caleb Williams
• Ken Walker
• Bucky Irving

Heath Cummings ([35:46]) discusses their draft potential:

"Ken Walker and Bucky Irving could be second or third-round picks. While there are concerns about consistency and offensive line performance, their upside makes them valuable late-round options."

Jamey Eisenberg ([45:29]) highlights Roma Dunze:

"Roma Dunze has immense upside with his role in the slot. If the offensive system improves, he could become a top 20 fantasy receiver."

Notable Quote:

Dave Richard ([36:20]): "The Seahawks haven't bolstered their offensive line, making me skittish about Ken Walker's reliability, but his involvement in the passing game is promising."

5. Additional Player Spotlights

Beyond the mutual favorites, the hosts shed light on other potential breakout players:

• Jalen Warren: As a lead running back for the Steelers, his opportunity hinges on the consistency of the Seahawks' offensive line.
• Jordan Addison: A high-potential third receiver who could climb the fantasy ranks with increased targets.
• Ricky Piersol and Tucker Kraft: Both present upside based on their roles and previous performances, with potential for significant fantasy impact.

Heath Cummings ([50:05]) elaborates on Roma Dunze's potential:

"With appropriate offensive support, Roma Dunze could secure a top 10 spot among wide receivers, especially if he capitalizes on increased target opportunities."

6. Fantasy Strategies and Draft Considerations

The discussion emphasizes the importance of versatility and adaptability in draft strategies:

Jamey Eisenberg ([57:21]) advises:

"In today's NFL, 300 total touches for a running back is impressive and should be a key consideration during drafts. Balancing between rushing and receiving capabilities can maximize fantasy points."

Heath Cummings ([56:35]) discusses Chase Brown:

"Chase Brown could replicate his late-season performance, especially with an improved offensive line. His role as a pass-catcher adds valuable PPR points."

7. Rapid Fire Breakouts

In a rapid-fire segment, Jamie Eisenberg and Heath Cummings quickly outline additional breakout candidates, providing concise evaluations and potential fantasy impacts. Players highlighted include:

• Jalen Warren
• Jordan Addison
• Roma Dunze
• Ricky Piersol
• Tucker Kraft

Heath Cummings ([50:05]) summarizes:

"These players aren't being drafted close to their ceiling, making them appealing late-round picks with substantial upside."

8. Listener Engagement and Community Interaction

The episode wraps up with a playful bet between the hosts regarding draft strategies, fostering a sense of community and engagement among listeners.

Adam Aizer ([66:15]) concludes:

"The winner will give the loser a list of players to draft, keeping the competition spirited among the hosts."

Conclusion

This episode of Fantasy Football Today effectively combines statistical analysis, player performance reviews, and strategic insights to equip fantasy managers with the knowledge needed to excel in their leagues. By highlighting potential breakout stars and discussing the latest NFL developments, the hosts provide a comprehensive guide for drafting and managing fantasy teams for the 2025 season.

For more detailed analyses and continuous updates, listeners are encouraged to visit CBSSports.com and follow related podcasts within the CBS Sports network.

Note: Advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections have been excluded to maintain focus on the key discussions and insights pertinent to fantasy football enthusiasts.