Think your fantasy draft is over? Think again! We’ve found two undrafted gems, DeMario Douglas and Amari Cooper, who could be the flex heroes you never knew you needed. Are you ready to dominate your league with these waiver wire wonders?

As fantasy football drafts conclude, savvy owners invariably scrutinize their rosters for hidden gems and potential breakouts, especially in the crucial flex position. While high-value wide receivers and running backs are typically snatched early, the real strategy often lies in identifying overlooked talents who can significantly contribute. This article delves into two such players, DeMario Douglas and Amari Cooper, who, despite going undrafted in many leagues, are primed for substantial roles and fantasy production in the 2025 NFL season.

DeMario Douglas, entering his third professional season with the New England Patriots, has steadily solidified his position within the team’s offense. Over the past two years, Douglas has demonstrated his capabilities, accumulating 115 receptions for 1,182 yards and three touchdowns across 31 games, with 14 starts. His progression from a sixth-round draft pick to a key offensive weapon underscores his determination and growth, positioning him for an expanded role in 2025 as the Patriots’ offense undergoes significant enhancements.

The Patriots’ offensive landscape for 2025 includes the continued development of quarterback Drake Maye and the high-profile addition of Stefon Diggs, the number four overall pick Will Campbell. These upgrades suggest a revitalized offensive unit, which, counterintuitively, could benefit players like Douglas. While Diggs will undoubtedly command significant defensive attention, this often creates advantageous matchups and open space for other pass-catchers, allowing Douglas to thrive against single coverage or weaker defensive backs.

Despite these promising indicators, many fantasy experts appear to have undervalued Douglas, with projections often falling short of his potential. Current estimates suggest around 550 receiving yards and 3.2 touchdowns, leading to a modest 14.4% roster percentage in ESPN fantasy leagues. However, a more realistic assessment, considering his projected target share and the improved offensive dynamics, suggests he could easily exceed 750 receiving yards and secure 5 or more touchdowns, making him a prime waiver wire target or late-round pick.

Across the league, veteran wide receiver Amari Cooper presents another compelling case for a significant flex role. Recently signing a one-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders, Cooper is poised for a strong return to a familiar environment where he has previously excelled. Now in his eleventh NFL season, Cooper joins a Raiders offense that has seen notable improvements, including the acquisition of quarterback Geno Smith, rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, and the strategic leadership of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.

Cooper’s 2024 season, split between the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills, was considered a down year, with 547 receiving yards and four touchdowns across 14 games. This performance, coupled with his late signing with the Raiders, has led many fantasy owners to overlook his potential for 2025. However, it’s crucial to remember his Pro Bowl season in 2023, where he amassed 1,250 receiving yards and five touchdowns, demonstrating his elite capabilities when in a favorable situation.

Returning to Las Vegas, a city where Cooper previously achieved three 1,000-yard receiving seasons, alongside a proven quarterback like Geno Smith and Chip Kelly’s high-paced offensive scheme, sets the stage for a rebound. His current projections of 600 receiving yards and 2.6 touchdowns are likely influenced by his previous down year. However, with Smith’s history of supporting multiple productive receivers, Cooper is well-positioned to far exceed these expectations, potentially reaching over 800 receiving yards.

Both Douglas and Cooper represent high-upside flex options for fantasy owners, particularly in deeper leagues. With roster percentages hovering around 14% in ESPN leagues, they remain widely available in many formats. While Cooper might be prioritized slightly due to the proven track record of Geno Smith, both players offer significant value and should be closely monitored. Identifying and claiming these types of undervalued assets can often be the difference-maker in a successful fantasy football season, especially for those looking to replace injured or underperforming players.