The New England Patriots made significant moves during the 2025 free agency period, utilizing their ample salary cap space to revamp their roster. Among their notable signings are wide receiver Stefon Diggs, linebacker Harold Landry III, and cornerback Carlton Davis III. These additions aim to bolster a team that struggled in the previous season, as the Patriots enter a new era under coach Mike Vrabel.

As part of the transition, new players are being assigned jersey numbers, with both Diggs and Davis taking on high-profile roles. The franchise hopes that these strategic investments will help elevate their performance and competitiveness in the coming season, especially after a lackluster previous campaign. Diggs, who previously wore number 1 with the Texans, remains undecided about his jersey number in New England, while Landry has already claimed number 2.

Fantasy football is a year-round pursuit, with key developments such as free agency, the NFL Draft, and training camps shaping the landscape for players. As we look forward to the 2025 season, identifying sleeper candidates and undervalued draft targets across the AFC is crucial.

In the AFC East, Ray Davis could emerge as a valuable asset for the Buffalo Bills, particularly if James Cook departs. In Miami, Jaylen Waddle's potential for a comeback remains strong despite a disappointing 2024. The New England Patriots' Hunter Henry continues to be a reliable fantasy tight end, while the New York Jets have excitement around Justin Fields as their new starting quarterback.

The AFC North features Rashod Bateman of the Baltimore Ravens, who is on the rise after a strong season. Mike Gesicki's role with the Cincinnati Bengals could increase, especially now that he has secured another contract. Jerome Ford stands to become the starter for the Cleveland Browns, while Cordarrelle Patterson may also find relevance in a reshaped Steelers' backfield.

In the AFC South, John Metchie III of the Texans could benefit from a revamped receiving core. The Indianapolis Colts' Alec Pierce had a breakout year, and Trevor Lawrence is poised for redemption under new leadership in Jacksonville. Lastly, the Tennessee Titans' Tyjae Spears has shown promise as a dynamic player in the backfield.

Shifting to the AFC West, Marvin Mims Jr. of the Denver Broncos could solidify his role, while Marquise Brown remains with the Kansas City Chiefs, despite injury setbacks. Jakobi Meyers had a productive season for the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Los Angeles Chargers' Quentin Johnston is a rising star following improvements in his second year.

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.

Fantasy managers should be cautious about relying on certain tight ends as touchdown regression looms. Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens, for example, had a stellar 2024 season with a 16.0% touchdown rate, which is unsustainable given his overall target volume and historic averages. Andrews’s low target count paired with a high touchdown catch rate raises concerns for 2025.

Tucker Kraft from the Green Bay Packers capitalized on teammate injuries but is expected to face stiffer competition in the upcoming season, making his touchdown total likely to dwindle from the seven he posted last year. The same can be said for Zach Ertz, who at 35, experienced a surprising resurgence in 2024 with seven touchdowns, but his age and status as a tight end make him a regression candidate for 2025.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are actively seeking a new general manager in preparation for the 2025 NFL Draft, having recently parted ways with Trent Baalke. With double-digit picks, the Jaguars face pivotal decisions about bolstering their roster, particularly in addressing a struggling secondary. Currently holding the No. 5 overall pick, the team has the opportunity to select a high-impact player, such as a cornerback. The latest mock draft suggests they could target a standout like Hunter, who excelled at shutting down receivers while also contributing offensively. Securing such talent could significantly enhance the Jaguars’ defensive unit, especially alongside young cornerbacks Tyson Campbell and Jarrian Jones.