As of April 2025, running back rankings for best ball drafts highlight the top-tier RBs, with Saquon Barkley leading the pack after a record-breaking season. With 2,005 rushing yards and a two-year extension with the Eagles, he's the first back off the board. Bijan Robinson follows closely, showcasing versatility and finishing strong in 2024. Jahmyr Gibbs, despite being in a rotation, shone brightly, proving he's a top RB option.

The second tier features De'Von Achane, who capitalized on increased snaps and touches, alongside veterans like Christian McCaffrey and Derrick Henry, both still commanding significant fantasy attention. Meanwhile, Bucky Irving's rookie success positions him as a promising draft target.

Josh Jacobs emerges in tier three, rebounding with a solid performance in Green Bay, while Ashton Jeanty and Jonathan Taylor show potential. Keep an eye on these players as the draft approaches.

The Michael Penix Jr. era in Atlanta officially begins as he takes over as the starting quarterback. After being drafted 8th overall last year, Penix was initially a backup to Kirk Cousins, who struggled during the season. With Cousins sidelined, Penix had the opportunity to lead the team in the final three games, showcasing his potential. The Falcons enter the 2025 draft with limited picks, having traded their third-round selection for linebacker Matt Judon and losing a fifth-round pick due to anti-tampering violations. This marks the first time since 2020 that the Falcons lack a top-10 draft pick, shifting their focus to strengthening their roster after four consecutive years of selecting offensive playmakers in the first round.

The Atlanta Falcons are making strategic decisions ahead of the 2025 NFL draft, including the re-signing of nickel CB Dee Alford, who will replace Clark Phillips III. Michael Penix Jr. is projected to be the starting quarterback after a promising rookie season, supported by talented players like Pro Bowler Bijan Robinson, who shined last year with 1,456 rushing yards. Wide receivers Drake London and Darnell Mooney are expected to excel, especially with Penix's aggressive playstyle. On defense, the Falcons are focusing on building depth, with key contributors like Leonard Floyd and impactful rookies potentially stepping up this season. The upcoming draft will be crucial for addressing remaining needs.

The Atlanta Falcons, under General Manager Terry Fontenot, have navigated four drafts with significant success since 2021, highlighted by standout selections like tight end Kyle Pitts and running back Bijan Robinson. While this draft marks the first time the Falcons will not have a top-10 pick, their recent draft history showcases a commitment to securing key players who can contribute immediately.

Pitts, the No. 4 overall pick in 2021, delivered one of the best rookie seasons for a tight end in decades, while Robinson, selected 8th overall in 2023, is poised to make a similar impact. Other notable picks include receiver Drake London and edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie, both of whom have shown promise as foundational players in the franchise.

Looking ahead, the 2024 draft is particularly intriguing with the selection of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., indicating the Falcons' ambition to solidify their future at the most pivotal position in football. As they enter the 2025 draft, the Falcons aim to build on their recent successes and continue enhancing their roster with strategic picks.

In the lead-up to the NFL draft, Mike Clay's 2025 fantasy football rankings highlight the top offensive players without including rookies. Bijan Robinson from the Atlanta Falcons leads the list, showcasing a stellar 2023 season with an average of 23.3 touches and 22.8 fantasy points per game. Following him is Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions, who excelled with 20 touchdowns while maintaining top stats in rushing and receiving. Saquon Barkley and Christian McCaffrey also rank highly, with Barkley achieving an impressive fantasy points average of 22.2 and McCaffrey returning from injuries with expectations of a strong comeback. Other notable mentions include De'Von Achane from the Miami Dolphins, Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts, and Josh Jacobs, who had a standout debut season with the Green Bay Packers. As the rankings unfold, the analysis provides valuable insights for fantasy football enthusiasts preparing for their drafts.