Thu Sep 04 23:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Fantasy Football Season Back in Full Swing: Week 1 Sleepers Emerge

**NFL.com -** The fantasy football offseason is officially over, and managers are scrambling to make those crucial Week 1 lineup decisions. NFL.com’s fantasy analyst Marcas Grant is here to help, highlighting several “sleepers” – players who may be undervalued and poised for breakout performances.

Grant emphasizes the inherent uncertainty of Week 1, reminding players that preseason hype doesn’t always translate to regular-season success. This week’s sleepers include:

* **Drake Maye (QB, Patriots):** Grant believes the second-year QB has a great opportunity to start strong against the Raiders’ middling pass defense, especially with newly acquired WR Stefon Diggs.

* **Bryce Young (QB, Panthers):** After showing signs of improvement towards the end of last season, Young gets a chance to shine against the Jaguars’ porous pass defense. Grant considers him a viable starter in deeper leagues.

* **Bigsby (RB, Jaguars):** Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Jaguars’ backfield, Bigsby is expected to receive significant touches, particularly near the goal line, against a struggling Panthers run defense.

* **Mason (RB, Vikings):** While Aaron Jones is the starter, Mason is expected to see consistent usage behind the veteran, especially against the Bears.

* **Tetairoa McMillan (WR, Panthers):** The rookie wideout is expected to quickly become a key target for Bryce Young, offering the big-bodied presence the Panthers’ offense has lacked.

* **Keon Coleman (WR, Bills):** After an underwhelming rookie season, Coleman has reportedly impressed in training camp and could be in line for a significant role in the Bills’ passing game, starting with a matchup against the Ravens.

* **Dalton Schultz (TE, Texans):** Despite the influx of new receiving talent in Houston, Schultz remains a reliable target for C.J. Stroud, especially against the Rams.

* **Tyler Conklin (TE, Jets):** Taylor has the chance to be a first Jets tight end in a long time with fantasy relevance, and a definite stash.

* **Arizona Cardinals D/ST:** The Redbirds could surprise if you are the type to stream defense.

* **New York Jets D/ST:** The D Line is strong and Aaron Glenn and Steve Wilks can make sure they cook.

Grant’s sleepers column aims to provide fantasy managers with an edge, acknowledging the unpredictability of Week 1 while using available information to make informed lineup decisions.

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