As the 2024 NFL season comes to a close, many players stood out in Week 17, especially veterans who delivered impressive performances just when fantasy football managers needed them the most. Their efforts provide insight not just into their recent results, but into what we might expect from them in 2025.
Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Heading into the final week, Baker Mayfield had already established himself as a top-10 quarterback, averaging over 20 fantasy points per game. In Week 17, he delivered one of his strongest performances of the year, throwing for more than 350 yards and five touchdowns, contributing significantly to fantasy championship wins. Mayfield’s consistency throughout the season has been remarkable, registering 12 top-10 finishes, which compares favorably even with elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen.
While Mayfield’s standout performance was against the Carolina Panthers, it showcased his ability to rise to the occasion. His performance put the Buccaneers in a strong position and highlighted Mayfield’s potential leading into the next season. As for 2025, the future looks bright for him. With the emergence of rookie Jalen McMillan, who can complement Chris Godwin, and a stable backfield, Mayfield is expected to provide great value as a potential pick in the upcoming draft.
Derrick Henry, Running Back, Baltimore Ravens
Derrick Henry entered Week 17 riding a bit of a slump, having gone four games without a touchdown, despite showing solid performances in terms of yardage. However, he returned to form with a vengeance, finishing as the second-best running back of the week with 27 carries for 147 yards and finally finding the end zone again. Henry’s 2024 season saw him average an impressive 5.8 yards per carry, tallying over 1,700 yards and 16 total touchdowns, emphasizing his reliability as a top-tier fantasy option.
Heading into 2025, Henry’s age and the associated doubts about his longevity bring up some debate among fantasy managers. While he continues to perform at a high level, discussions about when he might begin to decline will definitely take place. His consistent points-per-game average reinforces his status as a valuable asset, and many owners will likely consider him a Round 1 draft pick next season if he maintains his production trends.
Adam Thielen, Wide Receiver, Carolina Panthers
In Week 17, Adam Thielen, at 34 years old, showed that he still has what it takes, posting a top-10 performance with five catches for 110 yards and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers. Despite a stint on injured reserve this season, he remained a favorite target of young quarterback Bryce Young, achieving multiple top-10 finishes after his return. Thielen will remain with the Panthers in 2025, but his role may be affected by the team’s potential acquisitions, as they may look to bolster their receiving corps.
As the Panthers hold a top-10 pick, adding a new centerpiece receiver could change Thielen’s outlook. Depending on the team’s moves, Thielen could be viewed as a late-round option in fantasy drafts, as managers weigh his value against his age and the competition for targets he might face.
Travis Kelce, Tight End, Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce, a name synonymous with elite fantasy tight ends, experienced a fluctuating season, finishing off with a solid Week 17 performance to reaffirm his status. Kelce’s numbers might not have reached their previous heights, but he remained a focal point in the Chiefs’ offense amid a competitive tight end landscape. He has been a prominent player for years, and fans speculate on how his career might evolve as final seasons approach.
Looking forward to 2025, Kelce’s production could see a decline. With emerging young talents in the Chiefs’ offense, such as Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, the landscape may become more crowded, potentially impacting Kelce’s volume and scoring opportunities. Depending on how the offseason shapes up, he might slip from the top tier of tight ends in fantasy rankings, but he still holds potential as a steady contributor.
As we move into the 2025 fantasy football season, these veterans will definitely be on the watch list for many fantasy managers. Their ability to perform despite challenges, alongside a solid supporting cast, signifies that age can be just a number when it comes to fantasy relevance.
