Dynasty Fantasy Football: Key Players Rise and Fall in 2025 Rankings

As the NFL season transitions into the playoffs, dynasty fantasy football managers are already looking ahead to the 2025 season. RotoBaller‘s latest dynasty rankings reveal significant shifts in player values, with some rising stars and others facing declines. Key players like Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Chase Brown, and Bryce Young are making waves, while others, such as Kyle Pitts and Travis Etienne Jr., are seeing their stock drop.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the Seattle Seahawks‘ wide receiver, has emerged as one of the top risers. Between Weeks 13 and 16, Smith-Njigba averaged 18.5 fantasy points per game, placing him among elite receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and CeeDee Lamb. His 100 receptions and 1,130 receiving yards in 2024 marked a significant improvement from his rookie season, solidifying his status as a top-tier dynasty asset.

Chase Brown of the Cincinnati Bengals is another player on the rise. The running back finished the season with 990 rushing yards, just three shy of teammate Joe Mixon, and added 360 receiving yards. Brown’s explosive runs and consistent performance have propelled him to RB7 in dynasty rankings, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers.

Bryce Young, the Carolina Panthers‘ quarterback, is also trending upward. After a rocky start to his career, Young showed promise in the latter half of the season, outperforming C.J. Stroud in several key metrics. With 318 passing attempts, Young edged out Stroud in passing yards, touchdowns, and fantasy points, offering hope for a brighter future.

On the flip side, Kyle Pitts of the Atlanta Falcons continues to disappoint. Despite high expectations, Pitts averaged just 8.0 fantasy points per game in 2024, failing to live up to his “generational talent” label. His 46 receptions and 596 receiving yards pale in comparison to veteran tight end Zach Ertz, who posted 64 receptions and 631 yards. Pitts’ dynasty value has plummeted, leaving managers frustrated.

Travis Etienne Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars is another player facing a decline. Etienne’s 558 rushing yards and 254 receiving yards in 2024 were underwhelming, especially compared to teammate Tank Bigsby, who averaged 4.6 yards per carry. Etienne’s lack of explosive runs and missed tackles have dropped him to RB35 in dynasty rankings, making him a risky hold for fantasy managers.

As the offseason approaches, dynasty managers must stay vigilant, using tools like RotoBaller’s dynasty trade chart to buy low and sell high. With player values constantly shifting, staying ahead of the curve is key to building a championship-caliber roster.