4 Rookies with High Ceilings You Can Draft Cheap in 2025

These rookies aren’t first or second-round fantasy picks, but they each offer starter-level upside without requiring a premium investment. Whether you’re looking for a sneaky flex, late-round TE with breakout potential, or a stash in keeper leagues, these four names stand out as high-ceiling picks at a discount.

• Elijah Arroyo (Seahawks)
  TE29 | Overall ADP: 15th+ Round | My Rank: TE19

The Seahawks moved on from Noah Fant this offseason, paving the way for Arroyo to step into a starting role. While the offense is being rebuilt around Jaxon Smith-Njigba, there’s a real chance Arroyo becomes the second option in the passing game. At TE29, he’s practically free in fantasy drafts—and with athleticism, opportunity, and minimal competition, he’s a perfect upside stash for late rounds.

• Tetairoa McMillan (Panthers)
  WR34 | Overall ADP: 79 (Round 7.7) | My Rank: WR29

McMillan was selected 8th overall in the NFL Draft—the second wide receiver off the board behind Travis Hunter. That level of draft capital strongly suggests he’ll be the WR1 for Carolina from the jump. His current fantasy ADP is WR34, but recent history says he’s likely to smash that price tag.

Here’s the track record of WRs drafted top-10 since 2021:

2024: Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, Rome Odunze

2022: Drake London, Garrett Wilson

2021: Ja’Marr Chase, Jaylen Waddle, DeVonta Smith

All but Rome Odunze outperformed a WR34 finish in their rookie year. That makes McMillan a great value—not just because of his situation and talent, but because top-10 WRs tend to deliver right away, especially at this kind of draft cost. If you're in a keeper league, this is exactly the type of player you want on your bench early.

•  Tyler Warren (Colts)
  TE13 | Overall ADP: 126 (Round 11.6) | My Rank: TE14

Warren was the 14th overall pick in the NFL Draft and steps into a Colts offense that’s still figuring out its quarterback situation. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing—tight ends often thrive as safety valves in uncertain passing attacks.

Warren is athletic, versatile, and has a clear path to becoming a featured part of the offense. The upside is huge: we've seen cheap rookie TEs with talent like Sam LaPorta (2023) and Brock Bowers (2024) turn into difference-makers. At TE13, Warren is a smart bet with a real chance to finish well above replacement level.

And keep in mind: TE8 in PPR points per game last season (Mark Andrews) would’ve ranked just WR43. You’re better off chasing upside at this position—and Warren gives you that without overpaying.

•  TreVeyon Henderson (Patriots)
  RB29 | Overall ADP: 78 (Round 7.6) | My Rank: RB20

Henderson lands in one of the most promising rookie RB spots in the league. While Rhamondre Stevenson remains involved, last year made it clear the Patriots need help in the backfield. Henderson’s explosiveness and pass-catching ability are a perfect match for what New England needs—especially in a likely pass-heavy offense led by Drake Maye.

He might not lead the backfield right away, but his skill set is built for a committee that leans his way. If the offense finds rhythm under Maye, Henderson could quickly become a valuable flex or RB2. He’s being drafted as RB29, but that number could rise fast once the season kicks off.

-Joaquin Pessoa

ESPN