Projected Decrease in Targets for Top 5 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers in 2025

The upcoming 2025 NFL season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with several top wide receivers potentially facing decreased target volumes due to increased competition and uncertain quarterback situations.

In the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' camp, Chris Godwin might find himself competing for targets with Emeka Egbuka, Jaelen McMillan, and a strong running back, Bucky Irving. The departure of Liam Coen for Jacksonville could also lead to a small dropoff in the Buccaneers' offense.

Over in Green Bay, Dontayvion Wicks, the Packers' leading receiver, could see a decrease in targets following the drafting of Matthew Golden and the crowded Packers wide receivers room.

Jaylen Waddle of the Miami Dolphins averaged 5.5 targets per game in 2024, but had three games where he only saw two targets. Tua Tagovailoa's health issues could further impact Waddle's potential performance in 2025. The Dolphins are also experiencing drama with Tyreek Hill, the emergence of running back DeVon Achane, and the emergence of tight end Jonnu Smith, which could threaten Waddle's targets.

DeVonta Smith of the Eagles had a disappointing 2024 season, averaging 6.85 targets per game, down from previous seasons. The increased focus on running back Saquon Barkley and a hamstring injury contributed to Smith's decrease in targets. A.J. Brown is on the top-15 wide receiver list for the Eagles in 2025, while Smith is not mentioned.

In New Orleans, Chris Olave could suffer from bad quarterback play in 2025, as the Saints are yet to solidify their quarterback position. Olave could lose targets due to uncertain quarterback play and a potential rookie starter, Tyler Shough. The Saints are also considering multiple options for their quarterback position, including Andy Dalton, Ian Book, and Trevor Siemian.

Jaylen Waddle had a poor performance in 2024, finishing with 744 yards. Despite this, he has -114 odds to hit over 925 yards in 2025, according to FanDuel.

The New Orleans Saints' quarterback situation is uncertain, which could negatively impact Chris Olave's performance in 2025. Alvin Kamara of the Saints might be the only "safe bet" in fantasy football, but he is not the best option at running back. Josh Jacobs at running back could be a good option for fantasy football players in the Green Bay Packers, while Dontayvion Wicks seems like a candidate to regress in fantasy football.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, these potential target decreases for top wide receivers are worth considering for fantasy football draft strategies.