In the dynamic world of fantasy football, the most valuable wide receivers often aren’t the household names occupying the top spots on drafts. While star players usually lead the rankings, **hidden gems** exist among the **WR3s** who can surge to **WR1 results** due to favorable circumstances, improved quarterback performance, or sheer unpredictability. The 2024 season showcased this trend beautifully, with versatile receivers like Brian Thomas Jr., Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ladd McConkey, and Jerry Jeudy all bursting into the top 12 fantasy receivers.
As we prepare for the 2025 season, let’s dive into a handful of **WR3 candidates** poised to shatter expectations and emerge as **WR1 powerhouses**. Buckle up—these talents could transform your fantasy roster!
Three WR3s with WR1 Potential for 2025
George Pickens (WR – DAL) | ECR: WR33
The narrative surrounding **George Pickens** has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent weeks. After concluding the 2024 season and entering the offseason with uncertainty about his future, everything changed when Pickens was traded to the **Dallas Cowboys**. This move revitalizes his fantasy prospects for 2025, especially with a seasoned quarterback in **Dak Prescott** leading the charge.
Comparing “Expected” vs. Actual TDs for fantasy-relevant players in 2024 via @FantasyPtsData
> Trey McBride, George Pickens, the Vikings backfield, and Chase Brown got unlucky last year and are positive regression candidates
> I’m most worried about James Cook and McLaurin pic.twitter.com/1rNrAWQOLO
— Ryan Heath (@RyanJ_Heath) June 26, 2025
In Dallas, **Pickens** can expect ample target opportunities, especially as **CeeDee Lamb** commands attention in the slot. The synergy between Pickens and Lamb may mirror the dynamic trio of the **Philadelphia Eagles**, creating a powerhouse passing game that will flourish under Prescott’s guidance.
Chris Godwin (WR – TB) | ECR: WR27
Chris Godwin exploded with a career-best pace over seven games in 2024 before a dislocated ankle curtailed his season. With a long-term deal secured with the **Tampa Bay Buccaneers**, Godwin’s return in 2025 is something to watch closely.
In a pivotal role, Godwin thrived in the slot, showcasing impressive metrics such as **2.36 YPRR** and a **24.6% TPRR**. Although faced with competition from **Mike Evans** and emerging talents like **Jalen McMillan** and rookie **Emeka Egbuka**, Godwin stands out as the primary target for **Baker Mayfield**, provided he stays healthy.
Marvin Mims Jr. (WR – DEN) | ECR: WR59
Marvin Mims Jr. is perhaps one of the most intriguing yet polarizing players to analyze heading into 2025. Despite limited opportunities—running only **30.2%** of routes per dropback—Mims has demonstrated consistent efficiency when on the field. With a restructured **Denver Broncos** offense, there’s hope Mims can earn more routes and become a critical piece of the passing game.
When Mims was targeted and it was NOT a screen pass, Mims averaged:
????17% targets per route run
????6.3% first-read target share
????1.97 yards per route run— Corbin (@corbin_young21) June 20, 2025
If Mims can expand his role, the sky’s the limit. With the Broncos likely increasing his opportunities, he’s a low-cost investment with a massively high upside. **Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on Mims throughout the offseason—he could be the surprise player that transforms a fantasy roster.**
Kevin Tompkins is a featured writer for FantasyPros. Follow him on Bluesky @ktompkinsii.bsky.social and don’t miss out on the coming fantasy season!
