Week 3 of the 2025 Fantasy Football Season: Highlights, Low Points, and Injury Updates
As the 2025 fantasy football season progresses, Week 3 showcased a blend of standout performances and disappointing outings, leaving fans and managers alike with plenty to discuss. From rookie sensations to established stars struggling to find their rhythm, the week was filled with surprises. Analysts Matt Bowen and Tristan H. Cockcroft provide insights into the key players and trends emerging from this week’s action.
Rising Stars of Week 3
Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts
Jonathan Taylor has emerged as a cornerstone of the Indianapolis Colts’ revitalized offense. Following a stellar performance in Week 2, where he scored 29.5 PPR fantasy points, Taylor elevated his game even further, amassing 32.8 points in Week 3. Averaging 20 carries and 22.7 touches per game, he has consistently demonstrated his explosive potential, recording multiple runs of over ten yards in each game. With 61 rushing yards above expected, according to Next Gen Stats, Taylor is solidifying his status as a top-tier fantasy RB1. He is expected to maintain this momentum in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Rams.
Tre Tucker, WR, Las Vegas Raiders
In a breakout performance, Tre Tucker became the first player this season to surpass the 40-point mark in PPR scoring, achieving a career-high 40.9 points against the Washington Commanders. With nine targets, Tucker is becoming a focal point in the Raiders’ offensive strategy, following an impressive eight-target game in Week 2. His roster and start rates are likely to see significant increases ahead of a matchup against the Chicago Bears, although he remains a risk/reward option as a WR3.
Jordan Mason, RB, Minnesota Vikings
With Aaron Jones Sr. sidelined due to injury, Jordan Mason stepped up in a commanding victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, scoring 23.6 points. Rushing for 116 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries, Mason showcased his ability to control the game’s tempo. While he may not be a prolific receiver, his role as the Vikings’ primary runner positions him as a solid RB2 heading into Week 4 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Quinshon Judkins, RB, Cleveland Browns
Quinshon Judkins had a productive outing in the Browns’ victory over the Green Bay Packers, accumulating 95 total yards and a touchdown on 19 touches. Leading the Browns’ backfield with 18 rushing attempts, Judkins possesses the skills necessary to thrive in Kevin Stefanski’s offense. As the Browns prepare for a Week 4 clash against the Detroit Lions, Judkins is expected to play a significant role.
Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots
Hunter Henry delivered a standout performance, scoring 29.0 PPR fantasy points, marking one of the best games of his decade-long career. With 11 targets, he was the clear favorite for quarterback Drake Maye, showcasing his potential as a reliable option for fantasy managers. Despite his unpredictable nature, Henry’s upside makes him a valuable asset for those seeking depth at the tight end position.
Jalen Hurts, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
In a thrilling comeback against the Rams, Jalen Hurts led all quarterbacks with 29.04 points. His performance included 226 passing yards, three touchdowns, and an additional rushing score. This marked a significant uptick in the Eagles’ offensive aggression, particularly in the second half. With top receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith also posting impressive numbers, Hurts remains a top-five quarterback option for the upcoming week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Minnesota Vikings Defense
The Vikings’ defense, under the guidance of coordinator Brian Flores, delivered a remarkable performance against the Bengals, scoring 32 fantasy points-the highest by any defense this season. With four sacks, two interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns, the Vikings’ unit is poised to remain a top-five fantasy defense as they face the Steelers and Browns in the coming weeks.
Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams had a career-best outing against the Dallas Cowboys, scoring 29.12 fantasy points. His ability to connect on deep throws was particularly noteworthy, completing seven of 13 attempts for four touchdowns. While this performance may reflect more on the Cowboys’ defensive struggles, it marks a positive step in Williams’ development as he prepares for a matchup against the Raiders.
Courtland Sutton, WR, Denver Broncos
After a lackluster Week 2, Courtland Sutton rebounded with a strong performance against the Chargers, scoring 23.8 points on eight targets. With a favorable matchup against the Bengals in Week 4, Sutton is expected to be a reliable WR2 option for fantasy managers.
Omarion Hampton, RB, Los Angeles Chargers
Omarion Hampton had a season-high 24.9 points in the Chargers’ victory over the Broncos. With Najee Harris sidelined due to injury, Hampton’s dual-threat capabilities as both a runner and receiver make him a valuable asset moving forward. If Harris remains out, Hampton could quickly ascend into the RB1 ranks.
Week 3 Fantasy Disappointments
Bengals Passing Offense
The Bengals’ offense struggled significantly with backup quarterback Jake Browning at the helm, managing only 140 passing yards and two interceptions. Star receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins had underwhelming performances, raising concerns for their fantasy managers. With a challenging matchup against the Broncos in Week 5, both players may see their rankings drop.
Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders
Brock Bowers has been quiet in recent weeks, scoring only 9.8 PPR points against the Commanders. His inability to find open space raises questions about his role in the Raiders’ offense. Fantasy managers are advised to remain patient, as Bowers has the potential to bounce back in Week 4 against the Bears.
Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
Despite receiving 22 touches, Saquon Barkley struggled to make an impact, finishing with only 55 total yards and 9.4 points. The Rams’ defensive front effectively limited his opportunities, and he will need to find a way to break through against the Buccaneers in Week 4.
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
Ashton Jeanty has yet to find his footing in the NFL, scoring only 6.3 PPR points in Week 3. While he has shown flashes of potential, his lack of consistent production raises concerns. However, with a favorable matchup against the Bears, he could be a buy-low target for fantasy managers.
Michael Penix Jr., QB, Atlanta Falcons
Michael Penix Jr. struggled in a favorable matchup against the Panthers, scoring only 3.78 fantasy points before being replaced. His erratic performance has diminished his appeal in fantasy leagues, especially with a challenging schedule ahead.
Breece Hall, RB, New York Jets
Breece Hall’s struggles continued, as he posted fewer than ten points for the second consecutive week. While he has a better matchup against the Dolphins in Week 4, his lack of efficiency raises concerns for fantasy managers.
Injury Updates
CeeDee Lamb, WR, Dallas Cowboys
CeeDee Lamb suffered an ankle injury during the Week 3 loss to the Bears. If he is unable to play in Week 4, George Pickens could step into a more prominent role, with other receivers like KaVontae Turpin and Jalen Tolbert also seeing increased targets.
Mike Evans, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mike Evans exited the game with a hamstring injury, leaving his status for Week 4 uncertain. If he cannot play, Emeka Egbuka is likely to become Baker Mayfield’s primary target.
Terry McLaurin, WR, Washington Commanders
Terry McLaurin left the game with a quadriceps injury after a touchdown was reversed. His absence could open opportunities for Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane in the Commanders’ offense.
Najee Harris, RB, Los Angeles Chargers
Najee Harris suffered a potential season-ending Achilles injury. If confirmed, rookie Omarion Hampton will take over as the lead back, making him a high-end fantasy RB2.
Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB, New York Giants
Tyrone Tracy Jr. was ruled out with a shoulder injury, leading to rookie Cam Skattebo taking over as the starter. Skattebo’s performance could be pivotal if Tracy misses additional time.
Conclusion
Week 3 of the 2025 fantasy football season was a rollercoaster of emotions for fans and managers alike. With standout performances from emerging stars and disappointing outings from established players, the landscape of fantasy football continues to evolve. As teams prepare for Week 4, the focus will shift to injuries and matchups, making it crucial for managers to stay informed and adaptable in their strategies.
