Category: NFL

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

The first round of the 2025 NFL Draft brought a ripple of surprise — and excitement — when the Green Bay Packers finally broke their age-old first-round WR drought by selecting Matthew Golden. But among fantasy football obsessives, the buzz didn’t stop with the pick. In the latest crossover episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast and Football 301, Matt Harmon, Nate Tice and Charles McDonald broke down exactly why Golden could be the game-changer both the Packers and your fantasy roster need.

Green Bay finally breaks out of character — for good reason

For two decades, the Packers have famously resisted taking receivers in Round 1, and they tend to prioritize big-bodied, outside targets. Golden bucks both trends: he’s a bit lighter than their historic athletic thresholds, and he brings a different flavor to the table than their current WR corps. As Nate Tice put it, this was surprising given Green Bay’s “usual weight thresholds,” but the move immediately made sense once you examined the room around Golden: “The positive is, the rest of the room is so big and can handle all these things. You can drop in a quote-unquote, maybe slightly undersized guy in there.”

The Packers have their big, physical outside presences — think Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson (when healthy) — and Jaden Reed thriving in the slot. This means Golden can be used as a chess piece, opening up combinations Green Bay hasn’t had in years.

Matt Harmon is as bullish as anyone on Golden’s outlook, and he zeroed in on two critical factors for fantasy success:

1) Role and Routes: Golden’s two best routes by frequency and success rate, per Harmon’s Reception Perception, are posts and digs — in other words, big in-breakers. This fits Green Bay’s offense (especially with Jordan Love) to a tee. Harmon stated: “This offense, especially with Jordan Love under center, they want to … drop, use play action or drop back and rip big in-breakers ... Matthew Golden, his route running and separation is best expressed at the breakpoint of those routes in particular.”

2) Defense Dictation: One myth Harmon wanted to bust: the Packers don’t “need a No. 1” so much as they need someone who forces defenses to pay attention and stretch the field. Golden’s speed and route nuance do that — whether he’s flying by safeties or opening the middle for Reed and Doubs. Harmon stated: “Without Christian Watson … you don't have anybody that really stretches out the defense … Golden's going to allow you to do that.”

The Packers are a run-heavy team, yes, but that’s not the whole story. With their spread of talent, defenses can’t double everyone. Harmon notes that Golden can thrive even if he’s not the “WR1” by label. Golden’s skills translate into open targets, and Harmon believes his “toughness at the catch point” has been underrated. With Reed (in the slot), Doubs (as the physical X) and a healthy tight end group, Golden’s Z-receiver skill set will put him in single coverage — a formula for rookie WR breakouts.

Going back to Christian Watson, his constant injuries mean Golden could immediately inherit deep and intermediate work — something previous Packer receivers have turned into fantasy gold. “You're basically replacing Watson. It just comes in a different package," Harmon said.

Every draft class brings “surprise” first-round receivers. But when you zoom in on Matthew Golden’s landing spot, you see the pieces falling into place for a fantasy-relevant rookie campaign:

• Perfect scheme fit for his strengths (big posts and digs).

• Opportunity for targets in a well-constructed, but not top-heavy, WR corps.

• Ability to stretch the field and command defensive attention in ways that unlock the whole Packers offense.

If you’re chasing rookie WR upside in fantasy — and want a player whose skills align perfectly with what his team needs — Matthew Golden is the name to circle. The Packers and your fantasy lineup could both be long overdue for a breakout.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Here’s a recap of the favorite and least favorite Round 1 picks of the 2025 NFL Draft from the latest "Yahoo Fantasy Forecast / Football 301" podcast, based on what Charles McDonald, Nate Tice and Matt Harmon discussed:

Favorite picks of Round 1

McDonald:Mason Graham, DT, Cleveland Browns  

Loved how the Browns traded down, acquired extra draft capital from Jacksonville, and addressed a genuine roster need. There's a lot to like about the fit alongside Myles Garrett and Graham could bring significant pass rush ability.

Harmon:Armand Membou, OT, New York Jets

There's reason to be high on Membou’s aggressive play and tone-setting style. He can be a finishing piece for a Jets offensive line that’s been in rebuilding mode. There's potential for Membou and Olu Fashanu to be dynamic, young bookends and keys to a run-first Jets identity.

Tice:Mykel Williams, EDGE, San Francisco 49ers 

The pairing of Williams with Nick Bosa was perfect — Bosa as the finesse rusher, Williams bringing power and run defense. It's an ideal selection for the Niners’ defensive needs and style.

James Gilbert via Getty Images

Least favorite picks of Round 1

Tice: Jaxson Dart, QB, New York Giants

None of the QBs in this draft class other than Cam Ward were first-round material. The Giants are in “win now or develop” limbo — stuck with veterans and now asking Dart to step into a questionable situation behind a shaky line.

McDonald:Omarion Hampton, RB, Los Angeles Chargers  

Hampton is a fine player, but there's reason to question the value here for the Chargers, who still have glaring needs, especially on the interior offensive line. The Chargers aren’t good enough to justify using a premium pick on a running back and the move doesn’t make their offense materially better.

Harmon: Tyler Warren, TE, Indianapolis Colts 

A first-round TE is a luxury pick for a team that has needs elsewhere and a questionable QB situation. Warren isn’t an urgent upgrade given the Colts’ receivers weren’t being maximized anyway, and his skills overlap with what the Colts already have on the roster.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

The NFL Draft is always full of twists, debates, and speculation — especially when it comes to backfields that seem crowded on paper. The Los Angeles Chargers, after snagging Omarion Hampton in the first round, now sport an intriguing running back combo with free-agent signing, Najee Harris. Still, after listening to the latest Yahoo Fantasy Forecast/Football 301 with Nate Tice, Matt Harmon and Charles McDonald, it’s clear: Hampton should seize the lead-back role sooner rather than later.

Let's dive into why.

Hampton fits what Chargers want to do while providing an upgrade in all facets of run game

Charles McDonald put it plainly: “I love the player and in theory, I love the fit with that style of offense, you know, power run game. We're not trying to hide who we are. We're going to give our running back a million carries.” Hampton’s bruising, no-nonsense running style is the exact profile Greg Roman’s run-first offense needs. Where Harris has carved out a niche as a volume plodder, Hampton’s explosiveness and finishing ability add much-needed spark.

The consensus among the crew was that the Chargers’ offensive line — especially the interior — remains questionable. This means they’ll need a back who can create on his own, break tackles and not just rely on perfectly-blocked runs. Hampton’s college tape is full of examples where he churns out yards after contact, something this offense desperately needs: “Even in the Super Bowl ... consistency down and down is not there,” McDonald noted about offensive-line play. “But you know, when you got Saquon Barkley, all you need is to move someone just a little bit. If you have a big block on a Saquon Barkley touchdown run, everyone goes, 'Mekhi Becton great game, great game, great game.'”

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With average run blocking, Hampton’s burst and tackle-breaking make him the better fit to squeeze out value from those tough runs.

Harmon offered a realistic take: “[Najee] Harris is going to get the veteran deference probably in September and, like, he's going to lead the team in carries. But by December, like, Hampton is going to be the guy you want.”  

That progression is familiar: veterans get chances early, but talent usually rises to the top. Harris may hold off Hampton for a bit, but when you look at the combination of vision, burst and power that Hampton brings, you can see a backfield takeover coming. He’s simply too dynamic to sit.

Harmon further noted that the bones of Roman’s running scheme were visible last year despite the talent gap at running back: “I actually just think the backs were a bigger issue than people wanted to make.”  

The implication is clear — swap in a true difference-maker like Hampton, and suddenly, the entire offense could look more cohesive and threatening. Explosive runs, broken tackles and home-run plays become part of the weekly script.

Despite Harris’ pedigree and steadiness, the overwhelming sentiment is that the lead-back torch should (and will) pass to Hampton. It’s not just about who you draft in the first round or who stands atop the depth chart in August, but who gives your team game-changing value, especially behind a shaky o-line in a run-first system.

“By December, Hampton is going to be the guy you want,” Harmon doubled down. And if the Chargers want to maximize their offense — and fantasy managers want a late-season league winner — they’d be wise to get ahead of the curve and ride Omarion Hampton.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Every NFL Draft season, fantasy managers hope to spot the perfect rookie/team matchup — the landing spot that unlocks not only a prospect’s talent but also explosive fantasy potential. On the latest Yahoo Fantasy Forecast's special wishcasting episode, Matt Harmon and Andy Behrens brought up one match that should make the fantasy world perk up: Miami's Damien Martinez to the Dallas Cowboys.

Let’s break down why this partnership is such a compelling fit, drawing directly from the sharp analysis of their conversation.

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Harmon was the first to call it, sending Martinez to the Cowboys and emphasizing that he’s exactly the type of back Dallas needs: “He is a really interesting running back prospect … big dude, can bang it between the tackles, but also I think has some big-play ability.” 

Now more than ever, Dallas is desperate for competence — if not excellence — at running back. Their current depth chart, as Matt remarked, is clouded with uncertainty and uninspiring committee bets. Martinez’s ability to step in as a bell-cow right away could fill a void left since Tony Pollard’s departure.

Behrens echoed the sentiment, lauding Martinez’s profile: “He has been successful and efficient in multiple systems in college. He can just detonate tacklers at the end of a run … has so many plays on tape where he just disappears from view for a little while … because he’s dragging a cloud of defenders for the final like seven or eight yards of a play.”

The beauty of the fit, both Andy and Matt argue, goes beyond just landing on a team with running back touches available. Dallas is built to pound the rock: its offensive line remains one of the NFL’s better units, especially if young pieces like Tyler Guyton and Cooper Beebe develop, and Tyler Smith is already a force inside.

Martinez offers the ability to not only run effectively behind this line but also flex between power and splash plays. Put simply: Martinez wouldn’t just be a Band-Aid. He could emerge as the engine for Dallas’ ground game — an immediate volume play with double-digit touchdown upside.

Harmon and Behrens both agreed Martinez would be a hot commodity in fantasy football drafts if this pairing comes true. And for three good reasons:

• Volume: Dallas loves a true lead running back. With limited backfield competition and a good O-line, Martinez could easily see 15-20 touches a week.

• Goal-line upside: His finishing ability at the end of runs and Dallas’ willingness to feed one back at the stripe means TDs are on the table.

• Role security: Neither expert is impressed with the current Cowboys RBs — Martinez could take the ball and run from Week 1.

If Jerry Jones and co. decide Martinez is “their guy,” he’d fly up rookie fantasy draft boards. The Cowboys have a national spotlight, a history of feeding their RB1 and an offense that reliably produces RB1 finishes for fantasy.

Martinez in Big D would be an immediate **RB2 with RB1 upside** in redraft, and a top 5-7 rookie in dynasty formats.

Andy and Matt see Martinez as the hammer Dallas needs to keep its offense moving. It's a high-floor, high-ceiling union. If the Cowboys call his name, get ready to bump him way up your fantasy football cheat sheets — he’d be poised to deliver from Day 1.

Dallas fans, fantasy managers, be on the lookout during the draft. This is the sleeper landing spot that could change your championship plans.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

With the NFL Draft looming, fantasy football managers are scouring for the next rookie running back who could become a fantasy league winner. If you caught the recent episode of Yahoo Fantasy Forecast featuring Matt Harmon and Andy Behrens, you know this year’s class doesn’t offer the depth of past seasons, but it does have a clear-cut RB1 prospect: Boise State's Ashton Jeanty.

The show’s fantasy experts explored why, should Jeanty land with Sean Payton’s Denver Broncos, he’d immediately warrant consideration as a first-round selection in 2025 fantasy drafts. Here’s why their reasoning makes so much sense.

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In the conversation, both Matt and Andy agree Jeanty is the “prize of this year's running back class,” using phrases like “he just checks every box” and “one of the blue chips in this class.” Unlike previous years when fantasy managers could find value in the second or third tier of rookie backs, 2025’s class lacks that depth: “There’s not that many blue chips.” This scarcity means wherever Jeanty goes, he’ll be carrying massive fantasy expectations — especially if he joins a team that already looks like a great landing spot.

Denver’s running game is a sleeping giant. As Matt points out, “Their running backs were god-awful in terms of creating yards for themselves. Ashton Jeanty is a tackle-breaker. He would be the central figure of this offense. I mean, it's just a beautiful fit.” Last year, the Broncos scheme was generating open lanes, but no one in the backfield could capitalize.

Both analysts salivate at the thought of Jeanty joining Sean Payton, a coach historically unafraid to leverage a feature back, especially one with Jeanty’s tackle-breaking ability and three-down skill set. Matt says, “Ashton Jeanty, the Denver Broncos. Sean Payton, that man hates extra picks even more than Ryan Poles does. Get up the draft board ... it would have a high approval rating. Let's get Ashton Jeanty to this Denver Broncos offense.”

Andy doesn’t hide his enthusiasm for Jeanty in Denver either: “It’s a great fit. Denver is surely going to come away from this draft with one of the, one of its more exciting running backs. We just don't know exactly who it's going to be.” But, as both agree, if it’s Jeanty, fantasy managers may finally get what they’ve been hoping for: a Denver backfield centerpiece worthy of a first-round fantasy pick.

Nervous about other backs eating into his workload? Andy notes, “You could do that with Ashton Jeanty, and I think we're going to talk ourselves into it. And I think if he lands here, if he lands Chicago, there's a handful of places where he can go where I think Ashton Jeanty is going to be like, seriously in the conversation as like a, I don't know, ninth overall pick, 10th overall pick in fantasy.”

The top of the fantasy running back board is crowded with established stars (Saquon Barkley, Bijan Robinson, Jameer Gibbs, Derrick Henry, etc.), but neither Matt nor Andy hesitated to put Jeanty into the mix: “Like, yeah, that's, that's the conversation we're having with Ashton Jeanty if he's a, if he's a Bear or a Bronco. Bronco. I'm ready to have that conversation.”

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Translation: if Jeanty lands in Denver, you’re looking at a three-down rookie with a clear run to 250+ touches and goal-line work in a system proven to generate productive backs out of far lesser talents.

Both Matt Harmon and Andy Behrens left no doubt — if Ashton Jeanty becomes a Denver Bronco on draft night, he’s a lock for Round 1 fantasy football value. The combo of talent, vacant depth chart, coaching philosophy and opportunity is too strong to pass up. As Matt summarized, “He would be the central figure of this offense ... we should all want it to happen.”

If you’re holding a late first in your 2025 fantasy draft, and Jeanty’s wearing orange and blue (again), press the button. You might just secure the next great fantasy running back star.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

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As we inch closer to the NFL Draft, the discussion around the top wide receiver prospects is more intense than ever. One name that's generated plenty of conversation is Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan (or "T-Mac" as he's often called). In the latest episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, host Matt Harmon and The Athletic’s Dane Brugler dove deep into McMillan’s draft stock, bringing much-needed clarity to where he stands among the 2025 WR class.

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Brugler, renowned for his exhaustive draft guide "The Beast," isn’t shy about his admiration for McMillan’s game. He describes T-Mac as "a borderline top 10 pick in this draft," emphasizing McMillan’s rare combination of size, catch radius and hands: "I love the catch radius, love how he attacks the football. You rarely — show me the film where the ball is getting into his body. He doesn’t let that happen."

Brugler’s praise isn’t hollow — he ranks McMillan as a first-round talent, albeit not quite in the elite Marvin Harrison Jr./Brian Thomas Jr. tier from last year. McMillan’s ability to play true X receiver, a premium position in most NFL offenses, cements his value.

Harmon points out just how well McMillan would fit a team like the Saints, who are desperate for an outside receiver with size to complement Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Harmon’s experience charting receivers for Reception Perception also lines up favorably, comparing McMillan’s style and impact to NFL players like Courtland Sutton: "I think he kind of belongs to the same family of receivers that Drake London does, but he’s not quite Drake London. ... These big guys that separate better than you think and they can do a lot of damage on these in-breaking routes."

When a receiver has versatility, hands, size and can unlock different looks for an offense, it's hard to keep him out of the top-10 conversation.

Why is there suddenly doubt about McMillan's top-10 status?

Despite the consensus love, McMillan isn’t without detractors or question marks. Both Brugler and Harmon touch on why some evaluators — and potentially some NFL teams — see McMillan sliding a bit from the “lock top-10” label he wore early in the process.

McMillan’s 4.53 forty at his pro day surprised nobody who watched him in college, but it did accentuate that he wins with nuance, not raw speed. Brugler notes, "He’s not a burner. We know that. ... He is a little bit raw as a route runner ... he’s probably more finesse than truly aggressive. ... There’s just a big jump between the Big 12 and what he’ll face in the NFL."

Both analysts agree McMillan might be best as an elite No. 2, which (somewhat unfairly) suppresses his top-10 ceiling. Harmon said: "He’s probably best if he’s your really, really good number two ... those guys can kind of share that "Who’s the 1A and who’s the 1B title" and provide a really dynamic duo."

It’s also worth mentioning the 2025 class doesn’t have the same top-heavy WR talent as last year’s legendary group. Brugler specifically says if McMillan were in last year’s class, he’d be ranked behind Brian Thomas Jr., but in this year’s group, that’s a borderline top-10, top-12 valuation.

Verdict: Yes, T-Mac is still top-10 — with a realistic ceiling

After digesting Harmon and Brugler’s in-depth conversation, here’s where things stand:

• McMillan is still in that top-10 wide receiver prospect conversation in this class — not as a no-doubt blue-chipper, but as a highly valuable, NFL-ready talent with clear “starter-plus” potential.

• His best fit likely comes as a team’s X receiver — or a high-volume 1B — on a squad that can maximize his catch radius, physicality and polish versus focusing on deep speed.

• The split in the scouting community is less about a lack of talent and more about expectations: McMillan isn’t Marvin Harrison Jr., but he’s rock solid and projects as a possible instant starter.

• Don’t be surprised if teams like the Saints or Cowboys fall in love with his fit and take him in the 9-12 range comfortably. Either way, he’ll be among the first handful of receivers off the board, and rightfully so.

Tetairoa McMillan absolutely remains a top-10 prospect in the 2025 class, with the only major knock being whether he’s a true WR1 or a perfect 1B for a creative NFL offense.

Check out the full Yahoo Fantasy Forecast episode with Matt Harmon and Dane Brugler for all the nuanced breakdowns — it’s a must-listen for draft fans and fantasy managers alike.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Aaron Rodgers’ comments on the Pat McAfee Show sparked a lot of discussion between Charles Robinson, Frank Schwab and Jason Fitz on the latest episode of the Inside Coverage podcast. Here’s what their conversation reveals about Rodgers’ future:

1. Rodgers is in no rush and puts personal matters first

According to Charles Robinson, Rodgers was very clear that he’s dealing with personal issues, particularly within his close circle, and that’s a significant reason for his delay in making a decision about playing football next season. Robinson emphasized Rodgers doesn’t owe anyone a set timeline or rushed decision, especially since he’s not currently under contract with any NFL team.  

“He’s not beholden any team right now," Robinson said. "He’s not under contract. So I think we owe him the grace."

2. No promises to any team, and the Steelers shouldn’t wait

All three hosts agree that, while Rodgers is entitled to handle his personal life however he sees fit, this leaves teams like the Steelers in a precarious position. Charles and Frank both stress that the Steelers “can’t count on this situation anymore.” Frank says, “For the first time yesterday, I said, they can’t. They got to move on.” Charles adds that, even if Rodgers eventually signs, Pittsburgh still needs to draft a young quarterback for the future, because relying on Rodgers is too uncertain.

3. Rodgers himself told the Steelers to ‘do what you gotta do'

Both Charles and Frank highlight that Rodgers said he’s been upfront with the Steelers, telling them that if they need to move on without him, they should. This signals to the hosts that Rodgers isn’t making any commitments or setting deadlines for a decision about joining a team. Charles sums it up: “He did open up that avenue to them ... if somebody wants to move on, that's just how it's going to go and you're okay with it.”

4. There’s a sense Rodgers may not actually play 

The group expresses that Rodgers, despite leaving the door open, sounded more like a person who might elect not to play, at least for now.

5. Teams can’t build around his indecision

The broader takeaway for the hosts is that any team entertaining the idea of signing Rodgers needs to continue with their offseason plans as if he won’t be there. Fitz and Schwab both note that there’s real fatigue and “exhaustion” around the ongoing Rodgers saga, both for teams and fans.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into Inside Coverage on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

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As tight end prospects get ready to hear their names called in the 2025 NFL Draft, the big debate in draft circles — and on this week’s Yahoo Fantasy Forecast — is whether Michigan’s Colston Loveland or Penn State’s Tyler Warren is the best tight end in this year’s class.

Hosts Matt Harmon and Charles McDonald dove deeply into both prospects, and if you’re wading through pre-draft rankings, their conversation makes one thing clear: this debate is anything but settled.

Tyler Warren: Athletic marvel, mismatch nightmare

McDonald kicked things off by praising Warren’s athleticism, movement skills, and size. At 6-foot-6, 256 pounds, Warren is a “mismatch nightmare” for NFL linebackers and safeties. He broke out with a massive production year, not just catching passes but showing up as a runner — 26 carries, 218 yards and four TDs on the ground. Penn State clearly saw him as their top playmaker and schemed up plenty of touches.

Yet, Harmon noted, Warren isn’t the classic in-line tight end. Most of his production came on designed touches, rather than overpowering defenders in traditional fashion. Still, as McDonald made clear, that’s not a knock, it’s a creative use of a unique skill set. Teams that put Warren in the “Sam LaPorta role” (think: creative schemes, space-creation, YAC opportunities) could really unlock something special.

Colston Loveland: The pure receiver with pro upside

Loveland, meanwhile, has quickly become a favorite among some draft analysts who see his “dynamite” receiver skills and imagine a player who could survive — and even thrive — as a big slot or genuine mismatch. McDonald raved about his hands, fluid route running and ability to hang with actual NFL corners and safeties. While he needs to develop as a blocker (and could stand to add bulk), you can’t coach the kind of movement Loveland flashes at 6-6, 248 lbs.

Loveland’s best football is almost certainly ahead of him. His college production is a bit harder to parse, partly due to Michigan’s offense and a nagging shoulder injury, but the film suggests a player ready to make an immediate impact as a receiving threat — if his new team is willing to scheme him open and let him develop as a blocker.

So, who's the better tight end prospect?

Both Harmon and McDonald agreed the gap between Warren and Loveland is close — and depends heavily on what a team wants out of the position. Warren is an out-of-the-box “finishing piece” for an offense seeking YAC and creative deployment (the Jets or Bears were floated as ideal landing spots). Loveland, on the other hand, might rate higher as a traditional route-running, hands-first mismatch and carries a “high ceiling/high floor” projection if he can round out his blocking.

In McDonald’s words, “If you’re just painting a broad picture of both ... you come away with some similar takeaways,” but Loveland might be “a little bit stronger at the catch point ... some more real-deal receiver skills,” while Warren is an “explosive receiving option” with upside and rare versatility.

For fantasy and NFL fans, the key might be fit. As Harmon put it, most NFL offenses aren’t built to flow through the tight end — even the best ones get upstaged by true perimeter WRs in high-powered offenses. That actually makes landing spot even more crucial for these prospects. A team willing to scheme up touches, commit to a versatile game plan, and be patient with development will benefit the most, whichever way they go.

So, who’s the TE1? The Yahoo Fantasy Forecast guys see it as a matter of taste:

— Want explosive, versatile athleticism, and a player ready for heavy manufactured production? Tyler Warren’s your guy.

— Want a pure receiver with starter-level mismatch upside and long-term all-around potential? Colston Loveland is a compelling bet.

Both should hear their names called early in the draft’s second half of the first round — or perhaps even earlier, if one team falls in love.

Who’s your pick to be the best tight end in the 2025 class? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to follow Harmon, McDonald and the entire Yahoo crew for live coverage throughout the NFL Draft!

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

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In a recent episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, Matt Harmon and The Ringers’ Danny Heifetz discussed some potential surprises awaiting all of us during next week's NFL Draft. Amidst an array of bold predictions, here are some of the highlights.

Who will be the most shocking first-round pick?

As they explored possibilities, Heifetz put forward the idea of the New Orleans Saints taking Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart ninth overall pick. Heifetz emphasized how this move would be a shocker, but one that aligns with the Saints' need for a long-term QB solution given Derek Carr's shoulder injury and uncertain standing with the team.

Another weapon for Sean McVay and Co.

Further adding to the surprise element, Harmon entertained the notion of the Los Angeles Rams trading into the top 10 to select Penn State tight end Tyler Warren. The Rams have previously shown an interest in adding offensive weapons, and Warren could fill a critical tight end role, easing the burden off their wide receivers.

Steelers add QB of the future

Heifetz also shed light on the possibility of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe going in the first round, specifically mentioning the Pittsburgh Steelers. If Aaron Rodgers were to retire, the desperate need for a young quarterback could push the Steelers toward the surprise move.

Broncos add another key piece on offense

Lastly, Harmon and Heifetz discussed the Denver Broncos' potential move for Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. Under the helm of head coach Sean Payton, the Broncos might pursue Jeanty aggressively — likely needing to trade up from the 20th overall pick — adding another dimension to their offense. 

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

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In a recent episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, Matt Harmon and ESPN's Jordan Reid discussed the potential of SMU running back Brashard Smith and how he could end being the "ultimate weapon," tossing out a comparison that is sure to have fantasy football players excited.

Is Smith this year's Tyrone Tracy Jr.?

Both Smith and Tracy share a unique journey and skill set. Just like Tracy, Smith made a significant position shift that showcased his versatility. Initially a wide receiver at Miami, Smith transitioned to running back in his first year at SMU. This change was reminiscent of Tracy’s own journey from receiver to running back, a move that paid dividends in their collegiate careers — and for those who rostered Tracy during his rookie NFL season.

What makes Smith stand out is his ability to adapt and excel in his new position. According to Reid, Smith looked "completely natural" as a running back. His proficiency in the backfield was complemented by his experience and skill as a receiver, which allows him to be employed in dynamic offensive schemes. This blend of attributes aligns almost perfectly with the playing style that made Tracy such a compelling prospect. From Week 5 through the end of the season, Tracy had seven double-digit fantasy scoring performances, including a high of 22 points in Week 8.

Smith's athletic prowess was further underscored by his standout performance at the combine, where he clocked in remarkable speed, running the 40 in 4.39 seconds. This elite speed, coupled with his versatility, makes him a potent asset. Just as Tracy was an under-the-radar pick, selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Smith also carries the potential to be a Day 3 steal.

In a draft class noted for its depth at the running back position, Smith might not get the same hype but his dual-threat capability is sure to be attractive to teams looking to add a multifaceted backfield presence. With the right fit, Smith could very well follow in Tracy’s footsteps, proving that late-round prospects can be difference-makers in fantasy and reality.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Here's a summary of the mild, medium and spicy NFL Draft takes from Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice and Matt Harmon on an episode of the "Football 301" podcast. 

Mild takes 🌶️

Expect 3 RBs to go in Round 1:Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton are the likely candidates, and Harmon suggests that TreVeyon Henderson might sneak into the top 32 due to his desirable traits.

Falcons will focus on one side of the ball: Tice said the Falcons might not select an offensive player in the draft at all, focusing entirely on defense. This was based on the fact that the team sent only defensive coaches to the NFL scouting combine and interviewed only defensive players.

No. 1 tight end will be ... : Tice sees Michigan's Colston Loveland as the first tight end drafted, potentially even higher than expected.

Medium takes 🌶️🌶️

Shedeur Sanders won't be QB2 on Draft Night: Tice says that Sanders would not be the second quarterback selected, suggesting that the NFL might be lower on him than previously anticipated.

"I think there's some buzz about other quarterbacks and just smelling the smoke, you know, seeing where the smoke's going," Tice said. "I want to follow that smoke. 

"And also seeing when, you know, Deion Sanders, who was on the show last week with [Yahoo Sports'] Charles [McDonald], had an interview with Charles, also says, you know, we're comfortable with him maybe not going at the top of the draft. Again, just reading in between the lines here that I think maybe there is a drop with Shedeur and that there's another quarterback that goes above him because I just think there's just precedent there." 

Andrew Wevers via Getty Images

Who is the No. 1 CB? Harmon predicts that a non-Travis Hunter defensive back will go before Michigan's Will Johnson, suggesting that there might be draft shakeups due to pre-draft evaluations like 40-yard dash times. Teams might hold it against the Michigan star that he didn't run the 40 in workouts.

Browns deal for a QB: Matt speculated that the Browns might trade back into the first round for a quarterback, potentially looking at Shedeur Sanders.

Spicy takes 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🔥

Tyreek Hill trade: Harmon's spicy take is that the Miami Dolphins star wideout might be dealt during the draft. He detailed his reasoning that Miami might need to retool its locker room and develop a counterpunch on offense.

Long wait for QB2: Tice predicted only one QB would be taken in the first round, Cam Ward, and that the QB2 won't be selected until the second round.

Big trade move early in Round 1: Harmon suggested that some team might trade into the top 10 for an offensive playmaker, citing Ashton Jeanty as a potential target for such a bold move.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Warning signs for Cam Ward in Tennessee

Schwab is optimistic about Ward's future, predicting he will be really good, potentially a first-tier quarterback. In contrast, Fitz believes the Titans might ruin Ward due to organizational instability, predicting that he will face a difficult career with the Titans.

Fitz argues that the Titans are a bad fit for Ward because he believes the organization does not provide a stable environment for developing quarterbacks. Fitz shares concerns about the Titans' franchise management, noting that the revolving door of coaches and general managers creates instability. He also points out that head coach Brian Callahan took over a team with low expectations last year and the Titans ended up being the worst team in football, not due to injuries but due to poor talent, coaching and game management.

Fitz is worried that without consistent leadership and a strong supporting cast, Ward will struggle to succeed or develop into his potential. He fears that within a few years, Ward will be stuck dealing with multiple offensive languages and systems, which could hinder his growth as a quarterback. 

Essentially, Fitz foresees that Ward may be set up to fail due to the Titans' organizational issues.

How many QBs will go in Round 1 of NFL Draft? 

Fitz predicts that four quarterbacks will be taken in the first round, including a surprise pick of Jalen Milroe. In contrast, Schwab predicts only two QBs will be drafted in the first round, and that Shedeur Sanders might slip to Round 2.

Who will be first WR after Travis Hunter? 

While Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan is often considered the next receiver off the board, Schwab believes Texas' Matthew Golden will be picked before him due to his speed and game-breaking ability.

Where will RB Ashton Jeanty land? 

Schwab suggests a surprising pick of Jeanty by the Dallas Cowboys, and the excitement it could bring, despite the Raiders and Bears being favorites.

Desperation will force Steelers to reach at QB 

Fitz boldly predicts that the Steelers will find themselves needing to draft a quarterback due to uncertainties with Aaron Rodgers, potentially leading them to reach in the draft.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into Inside Coverage on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

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In the latest episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, Matt Harmon and Charles McDonald took a deep look at the wide receiver class and shared concerns about Travis Hunter's transition to the NFL if he lands with the Browns with the second overall pick in this year's draft. The worries have nothing to with Hunter's ability, he's a once-in-a generation talent, but Cleveland's quarterback issues can't be ignored.

Kenny Pickett and Deshaun Watson are the only two quarterbacks currently on the roster, raising red flags about the environment Hunter would be entering. 

McDonald warned, "What is he (Hunter) changing about this situation that they have going on there?" Later adding, "I hope they pass, just for all of us because like that would suck so much if he ended up in Cleveland."

From a fantasy perspective, Hunter would likely going to the Browns as a receiver first, which means he would be peppered with targets as a rookie. Who would be throwing him the ball is a totally different question. Malik Nabers was able to overcome poor QB play en route to catching 109 balls for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Could Hunter pull off something similar? 

Hunter is one of Harmon's favorite prospects in this year's class, likening him to a prime Odell Beckham, which makes the idea of him being in an unstable situation with the Browns worrying but one where he might be able to succeed despite Cleveland's QB conundrum.

There's a chance the Browns try trading back into the first round to select Shedeur Sanders, reuniting the college teammates and giving Cleveland a quarterback to grow with Hunter. 

Whether it's Sanders or someone else, Hunter's fantasy outlook would significantly improve if the Browns can figure out a reliable solution at quarterback. If the Browns can bring in a capable passer then Hunter has the potential to be a fantasy star. His skill set suggests he could see a high volume of targets, and we know how valuable that kind of workload can be in fantasy football.

However, given the uncertainty, fantasy managers might need to approach Hunter with cautious optimism. There's a potential for high reward, but you'll want to keep an eye on what the Browns do at QB if they do decide to take Hunter second overall before getting too excited about drafting him for your fantasy team.

Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan is projected to be one of the top wide receivers selected in the 2025 NFL Draft later this month.

The 6-foot-4, 219-pound McMillan ran 40-yard dashes at his pro day that hovered around the 4.5s, and there aren't many receivers at that size that can move like that. McMillan is the No. 7 overall pick in Yahoo Sports' latest NFL mock draft by experts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald, and both have him highly ranked on their big boards.

There is one issue, however, with McMillan's game that's seemed to pop up during the evaluation process: his lack of separation.

Tice and Yahoo Sports Fantasy Analyst Matt Harmon weren't buying it, as they discussed on the latest episode of Football 301.

"This guy is not some lack-of-separation, stiff player," Harmon said. "... If a guy can't separate on tape, nobody's talking about him as a Round 1 player, or a top half of Round 1 player."

Tetairoa McMillan compares favorably to last year's monster WR class

Harmon pointed out recent big-bodied receivers who supposedly couldn't separate, including Drake London and Rome Odunze, and it didn't hinder them in their transition to the NFL.

Speaking of Odunze, not only does Tice agree that McMillan's separation is fine, he thinks it's part of a package that has him grade out close to 2024's dominant wide receiver prospect class that included Odunze, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers.

"I consider him closer to those top three guys from last year than maybe what we're talking about this year," Tice said, "because I see him as an X, I see him as a ball winner, but I see him as fluid. And how he gets in and out of routes is really just really cool to watch. And you don't really see that from a guy that's legitimately 6-4."

McMillan's speed is fine, even if it's not built for go routes

Harmon said McMillan's long speed isn't the strength of his game, and it's true he won't threaten separation on go routes straight downfield.

McMillan particularly shines on comeback routes, where Harmon charted him as having an 88.9% success rate in terms of getting open.

"He can and has created chunk plays in the intermediate area, and in deep in-breakers, things like that," Harmon said.

Tice doesn't have concerns over McMillan's speed, either, due to his body control and agility allowing him to get yards after catch. He also thinks McMillan's 40 time isn't a worry, pointing out Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins — who just signed a huge contract extension and ran a 4.59 at his pro day five years ago — has a similar profile.

"So running a middle-ish 40 does not damn you," Tice said.

Where should Tetairoa McMillan go in the NFL Draft?

Tice is bullish on McMillan's potential, and thinks he should be a top-10 pick. Harmon didn't go quite that high, but is still a big fan of McMillan's game and thinks he projects as similar potential-wise to the Broncos' Courtland Sutton and the Colts' Michael Pittman.

"You can get away with having them as your No. 1," Harmon said. "You probably want them as, like, a really, really great No. 2. But to me, I think that's still like a top 20 draft pick."

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

The Yahoo Fantasy Forecast recently delved into some exciting possibilities for the NFL Draft, and one intriguing prospect that caught Matt Harmon's and Frank Schwab's attention was North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton potentially landing with the Los Angeles Chargers. Here's why Hampton to L.A. could be a big-time fantasy football win.

Hampton fits with Chargers' scheme

Schwab noted that Hampton would be a great fit for the Chargers' offensive system. The Chargers employ a power-gap scheme that's tailor-made for a running back like Hampton who can thrive behind defined running lanes. The way the Chargers configure their offense with pulling linemen and gap schemes would give Hampton the perfect setup to explode through holes, making him a tantalizing fantasy option.

Potential for immediate production is there

Harmon and Schwab both highlighted the value Hampton could bring as a rookie starter. Schwab even speculated that, despite the presence of Najee Harris on the team, if the Chargers used their 22nd pick to draft Hampton, he'd quickly become a starter. His ability to elevate the team's inconsistent ground game — they ranked 27th in rushing success rate last year — cannot be understated, and fantasy managers should take note of this potential workload.

“All of us fantasy bros would be geeked out,” Schwab exclaimed at the thought of Hampton joining the Chargers. If the Chargers indeed snagged Hampton, his ADP would shoot up. Schwab anticipated that Hampton, currently considered a fourth-round pick in early best ball drafts, would move to the early third round, reflecting the fantasy community's excitement around his potential in Los Angeles.

Justin Herbert + Hampton = The high-octane offense L.A. has been looking for

Integrating a talent like Hampton into an offense led by Justin Herbert could create a dynamic duo. Defenses already have to account for Herbert's arm and pass-catchers like Ladd McConkey, so adding a dynamic, fresh-legged running back like Hampton into the mix would make the Chargers' offense even more formidable, thus elevating Hampton's potential fantasy production.

The discussion emphasized how the Chargers have been searching for consistency and explosiveness from their backfield to complement their air attack. With Hampton, the Chargers would have a home-run threat on every down, which could translate into significant fantasy points, especially in leagues that reward long runs and touchdowns.