The 2025 fantasy football season is quickly approaching, and many managers have already begun preparing their draft strategies. The running back position has always been among the most important in fantasy leagues, and this year will be no different. Finding hidden gems in the later rounds can be extremely valuable, including these three deep sleepers with plenty of upside.
Deep sleeper RBs for 2025 fantasy football


#1 - Jaylen Warren, Pittsburgh Steelers
Jaylen Warren took a step backward last year with the Pittsburgh Steelers, but this is partially due to his injuries. He suffered ailments to his hamstring and knee early on in the season, which may explain why he was more effective in the later weeks.
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Warren finished as the RB30 or better seven times in his final nine games after failing to do so in any of the first nine weeks of the season. The Steelers also moved on from Najee Harris during the offseason, so this could increase his fantasy football value, despite them also drafting Kaleb Johnson this year.
#2 - Javonte Williams, Dallas Cowboys
Javonte Williams struggled with the Denver Broncos last year after making his return from a brutal ACL injury in the season prior. This type of injury is extremely challenging to return from, especially for running backs who rely heavily on their explosiveness.
Williams will get a change of scenery for the 2025 fantasy football season after joining the Dallas Cowboys. He is currently projected to be their starter, with Rico Dowdle departing for the Carolina Panthers this year. Dowdle excelled in this role last season, making Williams a sleeper after his disappointing 2024 campaign.
#3 - JK Dobbins, Denver Broncos
JK Dobbins has been plagued by injuries during his NFL career, but he has also been a solid fantasy football running back when healthy. In his only two seasons where he has appeared in more than 10 games, he has finished as the overall RB21 and RB23, including last year with the LA Chargers.
Dobbins also finished as the weekly RB15 or better seven times in 13 games, demonstrating his strong upside. He enters a relatively favorable situation this year for his potential usage as well after joining the Denver Broncos during the offseason. Rookie RJ Harvey currently tops their depth chart, but Dobbins' experience and proven results could earn him a significant role in their offense.
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