With the NFL offseason wrapped and training camps on the horizon, bettors are already eyeing which players could surge in production this fall. These breakout candidates aren’t just popular picks; they have realistic chances to smash betting markets.
Whether it’s explosive yardage, touchdowns, or defensive stats, the following names stand out as the most bettable breakout players for 2025, based on performance trends, usage projections, and evolving team dynamics.
Caleb Williams: Chicago’s Offensive Engine
Caleb Williams enters his sophomore season primed for a leap. He’s fresh off a rookie campaign with inconsistent results but undeniable flashes, three games above an 83.0 PFF grade and a 3.9% big-time throw rate – tops among rookies.
Key additions such as Joe Thuney and Colston Loveland, combined with Ben Johnson’s arrival as play-caller, reshape the offense around him. Williams’ skill set fits perfectly with Johnson’s scheme, which thrives on quick reads and explosive plays.
With a dramatically improved supporting cast, his passing yards and touchdown totals make for enticing over bets at FanDuel Sportsbook. His dual-threat ability also positions him as a longshot MVP candidate in some markets.
Rome Odunze: The Bears’ Target Magnet
Rome Odunze is in line for a significant uptick in production. Despite a quiet rookie year, his 72.2% contested catch rate and 4.8 yards after catch per reception are highly promising indicators.
Keenan Allen’s departure leaves Odunze as the clear WR1 in Chicago. He’s projected to dominate targets in an offense expected to be much more aggressive under Ben Johnson.
Odunze’s receiving yards, receptions, and touchdown props should draw serious betting attention. His chemistry with Williams during offseason workouts further raises his ceiling.
Keon Coleman: Buffalo’s Big Play Machine
Buffalo’s offense may look different, but Keon Coleman’s role is clear. Despite a rocky rookie season, he finished second on the team in targets and should now emerge as a top option.
Coleman’s combination of size and contested-catch prowess makes him a deep threat with significant touchdown upside. His high drop rate and poor separation metrics remain concerns, but the Bills are betting on his development.
With Amari Cooper aging and defenses focused on other options, Coleman’s yardage and scoring props offer great value, especially on long receptions and anytime touchdowns. His performance makes watching for mentions at NFL top props and predictions on FanDuel essential.
Braelon Allen: The Jets’ Secret Weapon
Braelon Allen could become one of the biggest surprises in 2025. The bruising back posted an impressive 82.0 rushing grade as a rookie, despite playing behind Breece Hall.
Hall’s inconsistency and new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand’s history with dual-back systems opens the door for Allen to claim a larger share of touches.
Allen’s rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and combo yard props offer high upside, especially in matchups against weaker run defenses. His potential as a goal-line option also boosts his scoring appeal.
Laiatu Latu: A Defensive Wrecking Ball in Indianapolis
Laiatu Latu delivered a strong rookie season, leading the Colts in pass-rush win rate. His 14% rate ranked among the top rookies, and he recorded 38 pressures.
Now under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Latu should thrive in a more aggressive, disguise-heavy scheme. The Colts’ defensive upgrades in the secondary could force quarterbacks to hold the ball longer, boosting sack chances.
Latu’s sack and defensive player prop markets are very appealing. He’s the type of high-upside rusher who can beat his projections if the scheme clicks as expected.
Jaden Hicks: Kansas City’s Defensive Star in the Making
Jaden Hicks didn’t see as much play time as he’s have liked as a rookie but left a mark. His 75.7 coverage grade and excellent tackling efficiency hint at a big second season.
With Justin Reid gone, Hicks is expected to become Kansas City’s starting safety. His ability to generate turnovers makes him especially interesting for interception props.
In a defense known for producing impact plays under Steve Spagnuolo, Hicks could surpass expectations and emerge as a premier defensive prop bet, particularly for turnovers and tackles.
Michael Mayer: Vegas’ Red Zone Sleeper
While Brock Bowers commands the spotlight, Michael Mayer quietly holds breakout potential. He’s an exceptional run blocker and boasts a 77th-percentile separation rate.
With Geno Smith under center and limited depth at receiver, Mayer could see plenty of short-yardage and red-zone opportunities.
His touchdown props offer solid value, especially considering Smith’s tendency to target tight ends. Mayer’s yardage markets also deserve a look, as he could become the Raiders’ second option behind Bowers.
Byron Murphy II: Seattle’s Disruptive Interior Force
Byron Murphy’s rookie season flew under the radar, but the numbers suggest a breakout ahead. He posted a 70.0 pass-rushing grade on true pass sets and a 76th-percentile run-stop rate.
Seattle’s defensive line is loaded with talent, meaning Murphy should benefit from favorable matchups. Mike Macdonald’s scheme, known for maximizing interior rushers, suits him perfectly.
Sack and tackle-for-loss props for Murphy could be sneaky good bets. His role in high-leverage defensive situations makes him particularly intriguing for defensive player markets.
Christian Mahogany: Detroit’s Offensive Line X-Factor
Christian Mahogany might not be flashy, but he’s a pivotal piece for Detroit’s offense. In limited rookie snaps, he delivered a dominant 91.5 overall grade.
Now expected to start at guard, Mahogany could play a massive role in keeping Detroit’s offensive machine humming. His ability to open running lanes and anchor pass protection boosts the overall offense.
Though offensive linemen aren’t directly involved in betting markets, Mahogany’s presence indirectly supports overs on Detroit’s rushing totals and total points, especially in games against tough fronts.
Tuli Tuipulotu: The Chargers’ Defensive Breakout Bet
Tuli Tuipulotu was productive in a rotational role last season, logging 43 pressures and a 13.4% pass-rush win rate.
With Joey Bosa’s injury history and a thin edge group, Tuipulotu enters 2025 as a full-time starter. His ability to rush the passer and play the run offers all-around value.
Sack markets for Tuipulotu are worth exploring. He’s also a candidate for defensive player bets tied to pressures, especially given his increased snap share.
Where to Find the Edge
These players all offer more than just breakout potential—they’re tied to specific roles and situations that make them particularly appealing in betting markets. Whether it’s touchdown scorers, yardage leaders, or sack artists, these names are positioned for strong returns. Savvy bettors should keep a close watch on their lines this summer as the season approaches.
*Content reflects information available as of 07/07/2025; subject to change.
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