Year 2 Players to Watch: Maye, Harrison, Odunze as Breakout Stars

As fantasy football enthusiasts gear up for the 2025 draft season, attention is turning to the second-year players poised for significant growth. Following a remarkable rookie year for many, analysts are evaluating which sophomores will make a substantial impact this coming season. Notable names like Drake Maye, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Rome Odunze are among those highlighted as potential breakout stars.

Key Second-Year Breakout Candidates

In the realm of undervalued players, Trey Benson, running back for the Arizona Cardinals, stands out. Last season, veteran James Conner managed to play 16 games, a feat he had not achieved in his prior seven seasons. Despite a right knee injury late in the season, Conner’s performance was commendable. However, Benson, who was the second back selected in the last NFL draft, is expected to have a larger role in 2025. With a power-running style and impressive speed, Benson is currently being drafted at an average of 158th overall, presenting a high-upside option for fantasy managers, particularly with the Cardinals facing the fourth-easiest schedule for running backs, according to analyst Mike Clay.

Moving to the quarterback position, Drake Maye of the New England Patriots enters his second year with a mixed bag of rookie statistics. Despite finishing with 16 turnovers against 17 touchdowns, Maye showed promise by recording six games with at least 17 fantasy points. His rushing ability placed him sixth among quarterbacks in rushing yards per game. The addition of veteran Stefon Diggs to the receiving corps, along with rookie Kyle Williams, could enhance his performance in the upcoming season.

Another receiver drawing attention is Ricky Pearsall of the San Francisco 49ers. As he enters the 2025 draft season ranked as WR46, Pearsall had notable performances in his rookie season, scoring over 17 points in three of his seven games. With Deebo Samuel Sr. now with Washington and Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a knee injury, Pearsall may become a primary target in coach Kyle Shanahan’s innovative offense.

Potential Breakout Stars and New Challenges

Focusing on potential breakout candidates, Marvin Harrison Jr. of the Arizona Cardinals is set for a pivotal year after being selected fourth overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Although he ranked 30th among wide receivers last season, his metrics are impressive, including third in end zone targets and ninth in air yards. With improved quarterback play anticipated from Kyler Murray, Harrison has the potential to elevate his status significantly in the fantasy rankings.

Meanwhile, Rome Odunze of the Chicago Bears averaged only 8.5 points per game last season but demonstrated growth in his route-running skills. With the Bears’ offense undergoing changes under new playcaller Ben Johnson and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams at the helm, Odunze may see increased opportunities for production.

On the tight end front, Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders faces the challenge of replicating an impressive rookie season where he recorded over 112 catches. While he remains the top tight end heading into 2025, the addition of rookie running back Ashton Jeanty and a new offensive scheme could impact his target share.

Lastly, Caleb Williams, drafted first overall last year, is under pressure to perform as he enters his second NFL season with the Bears. Despite flashes of brilliance, Williams struggled with consistency. However, with a revamped offensive line and the addition of talented rookie pass catchers such as Colston Loveland and Luther Burden III, his prospects for a successful campaign appear promising.

As the 2025 fantasy football season approaches, these second-year players represent a mix of opportunity and risk, making them critical considerations for fantasy managers looking to optimize their rosters. Each player’s unique circumstances will play a significant role in their potential to breakout and deliver value in upcoming drafts.