A Quiet Offseason Shuffle
The 2025 fantasy football landscape was marked by disappointment for several high‑profile players, but the offseason has brought a series of moves that could rewrite their narratives.
Running back David Montgomery finished the previous season with a modest 9.1 points per game in half‑PPR formats, a figure that left him outside the top‑20 at his position. After being dealt to the Houston Texans, he joins a squad that has invested heavily in its offensive line and boasts one of the league’s most promising defenses.
The Texans’ defensive upgrades are expected to increase turnover opportunities, a factor that historically lifts running backs who can capitalize on short fields and favorable game scripts. Early draft reports suggest that Montgomery’s average draft position has begun to creep upward as analysts weigh the benefits of a more balanced attack.
A New Chapter for a Veteran Receiver
Wideout Terry McLaurin, now 31, posted 9.5 points per game last year but saw his production dip after a injury‑marred campaign. The Washington Commanders have installed a fresh offensive scheme under coordinator David Blough, who promises a more modern passing attack that could restore McLaurin’s 2024 touchdown tempo of 13 scores.
Blough’s system emphasizes quick releases and route diversity, elements that align with McLaurin’s skill set. If the quarterback‑receiver chemistry clicks early, the veteran could see a resurgence that makes him a mid‑round steal in drafts.
Metcalf’s Reunion and a Fresh Play‑Caller
DK Metcalf’s 2025 output slipped to 10.5 points per game, his lowest since his rookie season, as the Seattle offense struggled for consistency. He now finds himself in Pittsburgh, where the Steelers have replaced Arthur Smith with veteran Mike McCarthy, a coach known for revitalizing passing attacks in his final NFL season.
The addition of Aaron Rodgers, who is preparing for what may be his final campaign, adds another layer of intrigue. Rodgers’ preference for deep‑ball concepts could unlock Metcalf’s elite speed, while the Steelers’ upgraded line aims to give the duo the protection needed to exploit downfield opportunities.
Across the three storylines, the common thread is a shift toward environments that promise more balanced usage and clearer roles. For fantasy owners, the potential upside is significant, but the downside remains tied to injury risk and the unpredictable nature of team dynamics.
Draft Strategy Outlook
Early projections place Montgomery, McLaurin and Metcalf in the mid‑to‑late rounds of most drafts, reflecting both their past volatility and the optimism surrounding their new situations. Owners who target players with clear pathways to higher volume may find value in each, especially if their respective teams exceed expectations in the upcoming season.