In an unprecedented turn of events in the 2024 NFL season, tight ends defied expectations, with rookies and underperformers rising to the challenge. Brock Bowers, a standout rookie with the Las Vegas Raiders, emerged as the top tight end (TE1), showcasing versatility and reliability. Meanwhile, Jonnu Smith of the Miami Dolphins delivered a career-best season, finishing as TE4. Zach Ertz, now with the Washington Commanders, demonstrated he still has gas left in the tank, bouncing back from injury to post impressive stats. Tucker Kraft of the Green Bay Packers made noise despite fierce competition, while Cade Otton from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers showed flashes of promise. Lastly, Mike Gesicki reinvented himself with the Cincinnati Bengals, proving doubters wrong. This year's tight end landscape was anything but predictable.

Dynasty fantasy football continues to evolve, attracting both hardcore and casual players alike. To dominate your league, it's essential to identify undervalued players rather than just relying on blockbuster trades. Each AFC team boasts potential breakout candidates who are currently flying under the radar.

In the AFC East, players like Ray Davis of the Buffalo Bills and Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins show promise despite recent struggles. The AFC North features Rashod Bateman, who had a productive year, and Andrei Iosivas of the Bengals, who may step up next season. The AFC South’s Jerome Ford and Tyjae Spears offer intriguing upside, while the AFC West’s Marvin Mims Jr. and Quentin Johnston could elevate their games significantly in 2025.

Texas offensive tackle Kelvin Banks stands as a prime candidate for the Miami Dolphins' 13th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Banks, an exceptional left tackle, has expressed confidence in his ability to transition to guard, a position the Dolphins may need to fill with uncertainty surrounding veteran Terron Armstead’s future.

During the NFL scouting combine, Banks highlighted his strength in pass protection, receiving a perfect grade in that area. He also mentioned the convenience of Miami’s scheme aligning with what he practiced at Texas, making a potential move to guard more seamless. With NFL teams reportedly discussing his position flexibility, Miami could leverage his talents effectively to bolster their offensive line.

The running back landscape has transformed significantly due to injuries affecting many players. In the previous year, only five running backs were selected in the first round of fantasy drafts, a stark contrast to previous years. Bijan Robinson, Saquon Barkley, and Jahmyr Gibbs stood out among these picks, while several others emerged as breakout stars throughout the 2024-25 season.

De'Von Achane of the Miami Dolphins transitioned from a backup role to a top-tier fantasy option, finishing as RB5 with significant contributions in both rushing and receiving. Chase Brown from the Cincinnati Bengals capitalized on injuries in his backfield to secure an RB10 finish, making him a compelling target for next season. Meanwhile, Bucky Irving of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers demonstrated explosive potential, claiming the RB6 position as he edged out his competition. Other notable performances came from Chuba Hubbard, who exceeded expectations in Carolina, and Rico Dowdle of the Dallas Cowboys, who proved to be a valuable asset despite uncertainties about his future.

Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel has expressed enthusiasm about his new coaching appointments, notably Bobby Slowik as senior passing game coordinator and Craig Aukerman as special teams coordinator. McDaniel highlighted the collaborative nature of Slowik's previous experience with the Dolphins' offensive coordinator, Frank Smith, and noted his strong working relationship with quarterbacks, particularly Tua Tagovailoa. Slowik's familiarity with McDaniel from prior engagements is expected to enhance the Dolphins' offensive strategy.

Aukerman's appointment follows a mixed tenure with the Tennessee Titans, but McDaniel believes his direct communication style will be crucial for improving Miami's special teams. The organization has also made changes to its wide receivers coaching staff, bringing in Robert Prince in place of Wes Welker. McDaniel clarified that the decision regarding Welker was unrelated to any player conduct issues, specifically dismissing concerns about Tyreek Hill's behavior.