In the world of **fantasy football**, not all wide receivers are created equal. While star players often dominate the top of the **average draft position (ADP)** lists, the real magic happens when you identify undervalued wide receivers poised to make a significant leap in production. Factors like a new quarterback, a shift in the offensive scheme, or simply being in a productive environment can catapult WR3s into WR1 status. Last season, players like Brian Thomas Jr., Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ladd McConkey, and Jerry Jeudy were drafted as lesser options but ended the season among the top 12 fantasy receivers. With the unpredictability of the NFL, we’re bound to see a few WR3s rise to the occasion in 2025.
**Scouting these players ahead of your draft** can provide a crucial advantage. Below, we’ll explore several WR3 candidates brimming with potential to shine as WR1s in 2025.
Fantasy Football WR3s With WR1 Potential
Chris Godwin (WR – TB) | ECR: WR27
The **burning question** surrounding Chris Godwin is how he will bounce back from a dislocated ankle that cut his 2024 season short after just seven games. However, the silver lining is that during those seven games, he was operating at a **career-best per-game pace**. Thankfully, Godwin chose to **remain with the Bucs**, solidifying his place in an offense that emphasizes his contribution.
With a shift to a more wide-open style, Godwin showcased impressive numbers, posting a **2.36 yards per route run (YPRR)** and a **24.6% targets per route run (TPRR)** last season. While names like Mike Evans and rookie first-round pick Emeka Egbuka loom large, Godwin is still expected to be **Baker Mayfield’s** second target—if healthy.
**Coach Todd Bowles** hinted at a potential Week 1 return for Godwin, indicating a positive recovery outlook. Given his current ranking as the WR27 on the **[Expert Consensus Rankings](https://www.fantasypros.com/nfl/rankings/ppr-wr-cheatsheets.php/?tag=fp-articles)**, Godwin could once again emerge as a WR1 if he can sustain his impressive pace from last season.
George Pickens (WR – DAL) | ECR: WR33
**George Pickens’** journey took a dramatic turn after being traded to the **Dallas Cowboys**, a move that revitalizes his fantasy prospects for 2025. Previously, doubts swirled around his value in a crowded Pittsburgh offense, but in Dallas, he’s presented a golden opportunity. With **CeeDee Lamb** commanding attention in the **slot**, Pickens will likely benefit from fewer defenders focusing on him, enhancing his big-play potential.
George Pickens is the perfect addition for the Cowboys because he plays split end while CeeDee Lamb primarily operates in the slot.
Same setup as Tee Higgins/Ja’Marr Chase or Mike Evans/Chris Godwin.
— Andrew Cooper (@CoopAFiasco) May 7, 2025
With an offense built for high passing volumes, the dynamic duo of Pickens and Lamb could replicate the **Eagles’ success** with their trio of receivers, maximizing their target opportunities while sidelining other options. Monitoring Pickens’ **ADP** as the summer approaches will be essential, but I recommend targeting him wherever possible.
Jauan Jennings (WR – SF) | ECR: WR41
The fate of **Jauan Jennings** lies in a critical early-season assessment. With questions swirling around the 49ers’ receiving corps, we’ll quickly learn if Jennings’ breakout in 2024 was no fluke. The absence of **Deebo Samuel**, now with Washington, opens the door for Jennings to assert himself further. Last season, he finished impressively, ranking **14th in YPRR (2.26)** and TPRR (25.7%), indicating he can earn targets consistently.
In 6 games with Ricky Pearsall, Jauan Jennings, and George Kittle on the field together:
Pearsall: 9.6 FPG / 17.6% first-read target share.
Kittle: 14.2 FPG / 19.8% first-read target share.
Jennings: 13.5 FPG / 31.3% first-read target share.
Seems pretty simple!
— Ryan Heath (@RyanJ_Heath) March 26, 2025
While he may not be the spotlight player in San Francisco, Jennings’ efficiency and potential connection with **Brock Purdy** create an intriguing fantasy value at WR41. He carries low risk and ample upside—ideal for savvy drafters.
Whether you’re eyeing **Godwin**, **Pickens**, or **Jennings**, targeting these WR3s with WR1 potential can set the stage for a triumphant fantasy season. Prepare well, and don’t overlook these valuable assets in your 2025 fantasy drafts!
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Kevin Tompkins is a featured writer for FantasyPros. For more insights, check out his profile and follow him on Bluesky @ktompkinsii.bsky.social.
