Tier 1: The Milk and Honey Tier
These are the players who can take you to the promised land.
1. Bijan Robinson, RB, ATL
You could make an argument for about five guys (no burgers or fries) as the top fantasy option in 2026, but for me, for now, it’s Bijan Robinson. He’s a legitimate threat to reach 1,000 rushing and 1,000 receiving yards and is one of four backs to average over 4.50 yards per carry over the past three seasons (minimum 100 carries). The others are Jahmyr Gibbs, James Cook, and De’Von Achane (okay, technically, Achane was at 4.47 in 2024, but we round up here). I could pepper you with an array of stats that show Bijan’s awesomeness, but I think these two paint the perfect picture: Robinson averaged a league-best 3.06 yards after contact in 2025, and despite ranking fifth in carries, he was first in forced missed tackles. Fantasy points, rushing yards, yards per carry, receptions, and receiving yards have all gone up in all three years of his professional career, and he’s yet to miss a game as a pro. Perennial thorn in the side Tyler Allgeier is a free agent, and his return to Atlanta could put a damper on the rocket ship emoji upside offered by Robinson. But if Allgeier ends up elsewhere (which I think he will), Bijan could have the type of fabled fantasy season that’ll be talked about for generations.
2. Ja’Marr Chase, WR, CIN
It’s hard to imagine a world where Joe Burrow stayed healthy all season and Ja’Marr Chase didn’t finish as the WR1 overall for the second straight season. But despite a trio of starts from Jake Browning and a one-game suspension (for an uncharacteristic spitting incident), the stud receiver still finished in the top five at the position in total points and in the top three in points per game (getting targeted 42 times over a two-game span by Joe Flacco certainly helped the cause). The reason I have to put Chase over the likes of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Puka Nacua, and Amon-Ra St. Brown is that he has arguably the most stable situation among them. Does the soon-to-be 38-year-old Matthew Stafford retire? Who’s the offensive coordinator in Seattle? Will new OC Drew Petzing be a good fit for the Lions? Who’ll be throwing the ball to Justin Jefferson? Give me the guy who’s a lock for 150+ targets with his BFF at quarterback and smack dab in the middle of his prime.
3. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, SEA
All it took for Jaxon Smith-Njigba to break out was for both DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett to leave town. OK, there was a little more to it than that, but it certainly played a major role. Improvements to the O-line gave Sam Darnold enough time to prove 2025 wasn’t a fluke, and JSN was the main beneficiary. The former Buckeye wideout was one of two players to average over 100 receiving yards per game (Puka Nacua being the other) and one of two receivers to average over 3.7 yards per route run (guess who – Puka again). Since 2021, there have been only two other instances of receivers averaging over 3.5 YPRR, let alone 3.7. But probably the most remarkable part of it all is that Seattle had the fourth-fewest pass attempts per game. Smith-Njigba was aided by an absurd 32.6% target share and accounted for 44.1% of his team’s total yards, yet another feat that’s only been accomplished two other times since 2021. All impressive, yes. Also, all highly unlikely to be repeated. I’m not saying you shouldn’t treat JSN as a WR1 for fantasy. But I am saying I doubt I’ll be buying all the risk and drafting him first overall.
4. Puka Nacua, WR, LAR
In the two seasons Puka Nacua played at least 16 games, he’s seen at least 160 targets and caught 100+ passes for over 1400 receiving yards. With Sean McVay calling plays and Matthew Stafford at quarterback, Nacua is poised for another top-five fantasy finish in 2026. Stafford could realistically retire at season’s end, as he turns 38 in February. But even if there’s a new quarterback under center for the Rams in ‘26, McVay should scheme Puka to an at worst low-end WR1 finish.
5. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, DET
If you were hungry for fantasy points from your running back in 2025, Jahmyr Gibbs fed you a diablo sauce-covered RB3 season with spike weeks that hit like that first sip of Baja Blast. But the lows were low, like biting into that Beefy 5-layer Burrito and realizing they added sour cream when you specifically asked them not to. There was plenty of good. Gibbs set a career-high 16% target share and handled over 50% of the team’s carries for the first time in his career. At first glance, it doesn’t look like he wore down over the second half of the season.
Gibbs’ efficiency and elusiveness increased from Week 10 onward. But if you dig a little deeper into the grade of the ground beef at Taco Bell, much of that can be attributed to two nuclear games against the Giants and Commanders, where he averaged a combined 12 yards per carry. Outside of those two games, Gibbs had just one game over 3.5 yards per carry. Now, don’t hear what I’m not saying. Gibbs is easily an RB1 in 2026 and should be one of the first backs off the board. But that efficiency drop is certainly concerning. Yesterday, the Lions hired Drew Petzing, formerly of the Arizona Cardinals, as their OC. While it’s not a sexy hire on paper, Petzing has shown to have some decent run schemes, and Gibbs is by far the most talented back he’s worked with. It’s not Arthur Smith, so Gibbs should still be a top-tier RB for 2026.
6. CeeDee Lamb, WR, DAL
CeeDee Lamb is a perfect example of why it’s so important to look at a player’s points per game finish versus their total points. Lamb missed four games early in the season, so it’s not like he was expected to finish as the WR1 overall in total points. But a WR22 finish has some spooked that the emergence of George Pickens spelled the end of Lamb’s days as an elite fantasy receiver. Yes, Pickens finished as the WR6 in points per game after a career year in Dallas. But Lamb wasn’t far behind, tied for WR12 with Malik Nabers and Zay Flowers. Pickens’ impact has been overestimated, and if he returns to Dallas, there’s a solid chance Lamb goes into draft season undervalued. If there’s any sort of discount, keep things in sync and buy, buy, buy. If Pickens is back, consider Lamb a low-end WR1. But if Pickens is gone, I have no hesitation vaulting Lamb right back into the top five.
7. Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR, DET
Mr. Sun God, I’m sorry. I was dumb. I doubted you after Ben Johnson’s departure, and you proved you’re more than just a scheme. You are one of just five receivers to catch eight or more touchdowns in each of the past two seasons and have three straight top-five fantasy finishes. Buuuuuuuut… I do have an ever-so-slight concern. Well, two. First, your teammate Sam LaPorta. You indeed put up some monster performances before his season-ending injury in Week 10. But your 8.7 targets per game before the injury increased to an enormous 10.6 after. Don’t get me wrong, Amon-Ra St. Brown is a top-10 fantasy receiver. But his situation is similar to teammate Jahmyr Gibbs. With a healthy LaPorta, would ARSB have finished top five, or more toward the back end of WR1s? I guess we’ll never know.
8. Jonathan Taylor, RB, IND
You know that horse-drawing meme? The one where it starts off beautiful but ends looking like it was drawn by a four-year-old who just shotgunned a Wild Cherry Pepsi? That’s kind of what Jonathan Taylor’s season was, but better. Think more along the lines of it starting as a drawing by Picasso and being finished by your local high school art teacher. JT was in early MVP talks after scoring three total touchdowns in 50% of his games through the first ten weeks, helping him produce seven games with 23 fantasy points. He set career highs in targets, receptions, and receiving yards, in part because 60% of Daniel Jones’ passing attempts were nine yards or fewer (including behind the line of scrimmage). But Jones’ Week 14 season-ending injury derailed more than the Colts’ playoff hopes; it slammed shut the ceiling on what was shaping up to be a legendary fantasy season. Taylor was still solid down the stretch, but after scoring less than 18 points just five times through Week 13, he failed to surpass that mark in the five games after. Had Indiana Jones stayed healthy, JT likely would have carried fantasy teams straight through the playoffs, with his early-season dominance delivering them there. Jones is a free agent, so the Colts’ quarterback situation is still in flux. But Taylor can put up RB1 numbers with just about anybody under center, and if Jones returns and stays healthy all season, JT is right back in the RB1 overall convo.
9. Malik Nabers, WR, NYG
Oh, what could have been. Malik Nabers didn’t get to play a full game with Jaxson Dart under center, and he was still tied for WR12 in points per game (mainly thanks to a monster game against Dallas). Dart did enough to make Wan’Dale Robinson a high-end WR2, and with the hiring of John Harbaugh and the assumed hiring of Todd Monken (at the time of writing), a WR1 overall finish isn’t out of the question for Nabers. Although Monken didn’t do it with Zay Flowers, he’s been known to force-feed his WR1s. The only question now is Nabers’ health, as there have been questions about his Week 1 availability while recovering from his torn ACL. Whenever Nabers is able to get on the field, he’s immediately a top-five, maybe top-three fantasy wide receiver.
10. Christian McCaffrey, RB, SF
It was yet another season with an avalanche of injuries for the 49ers, but somehow, Christian McCaffrey was the lone fantasy-relevant player to stay healthy the entire season. That led to a YUGE workload, with a career-high in targets and over 100 catches for the first time since he joined San Francisco. CMC came within 100 yards of becoming the first player in NFL history with two seasons of 1,000 rushing AND receiving yards in the same campaign. But he was not the same ol’ CMC. He ranked 39th in yards per carry among qualifying backs and 37th in explosive run rate. For context, Chris Rodriguez and Kimani Vidal were higher. No matter what, McCaffrey turns 30 in June, but he’s the type of talent like Derrick Henry who can and likely will buck the trend of production dropoff over 30. He’s no longer efficient or explosive, but he has the pass-catching chops to continue to be an RB1 for multiple years. His floor isn’t what it once was, but he sure does have that same sky-high ceiling.
Tier 2: The “Skip Intro” Tier
You know the plot, just start them.
11. Justin Jefferson, WR, MIN
Alec Pierce. Quentin Johnston. Michael Wilson. Those are three of the 31 receivers who finished the 2025 season averaging more fantasy points per game than Justin Jefferson. Obviously, nobody’s questioning the talent of one of the most dynamic active receivers in the NFL. But everyone’s questioning who his quarterback will be in 2026. J.J. McCarthy’s injuries and struggles didn’t help, but even as his play improved toward the end of the season, his connection with Jefferson didn’t. Jefferson ranked outside the top six for the first time in a full season, scoring ten or more points just three times after Week 9. There’s a wide range of outcomes for where JJettas’ final preseason rank will land as the offseason moves along. Until we have a clearer picture of what that looks like, I can’t rank him among the top 10 receivers where he belongs. I know. I know. It hurts me too.
12. Drake London, WR, ATL
Drake London ranked sixth with 2.61 yards per route run. Even though he played in only 12 games, he nearly reached 1,000 receiving yards, catching 68 of his 108 targets for 919 yards. Another ACL injury to Michael Penix Jr. threw Kirk Cousins back under center, and Penix’s career could legitimately be over. Penix underwent his third ACL reconstruction at the end of 2025, and although he has a chance to be ready for the start of next season, the Falcons almost assuredly will have some sort of insurance. Another team that will have a new head coach, OC, offensive system, and maybe a quarterback. It’s hard to properly place a guy like London until we know who his quarterback will be and what the offense’s strategy entails. His propensity to get nicked up also leads London’s floor to further fall, my fair lady. He’s Nico Collins with a wider range of outcomes.
13. De’Von Achane, RB, MIA
De’Von Achane was the only running back in the NFL with a double-digit explosive run rate this season, handling a career-high 238 rushing attempts to reach 1350 rushing yards, his first 1,000-yard season. A second consecutive top-five fantasy finish, yes. But there are some concerns heading into 2026. Mike McDaniel and his running-back-friendly offense are out the door, as is Tua Tagovailoa and the tendency to dump off passes, with 74% of his attempts under nine yards. So much of Achane’s fantasy value comes from the passing game, where he’s averaged 72 catches, 540 receiving yards, and five receiving touchdowns over the past two seasons. At the time of writing, Miami was still searching for a head coach, and some of the names being interviewed were not conducive to fantasy production. The talent is elite and will remain so, but his role could change drastically if the offensive philosophy shifts to one that doesn’t pass the ball or one that is pass-happy. I’m afraid that Achane will be priced too high for my liking and carries a significant risk of being a bust in 2026.
14. Rashee Rice, WR, KC
Rashee Rice is facing domestic violence allegations about a year after criminal charges stemming from a high-speed car accident in Dallas. When Rice is on the field with a healthy Patrick Mahomes, he’s an elite fantasy option, as made evident by his league-leading 7.98 yards after the catch. But his 2026 status is impossible to predict given his off-the-field issues and the unclear timeline for Mahomes’ return from a torn ACL. If both are good to go for the start of the season, Rice is easily a WR1.
15. Nico Collins, WR, HOU
Nico Collins started 2025 inconsistently, as did the Texans offense, but finished the season strong thanks to a boost from… yes… Davis Mills. Collins scored 14+ in six of his final nine games and 20+ in four. Tank Dell is expected to return from injury, and rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel are taking a step forward. That may reduce the target share available. But even if that’s so, the smaller percentage of the pie should be offset by the pie being bigger thanks to an improved offense (and hopefully offensive line). Considering the defense, multiple mouths to feed, and at times inconsistent play, I don’t think Collins has a top-three fantasy ceiling like some others. But don’t let that cause you to discount him as one of the safest WR1s in fantasy, with a sky-high floor and plenty of spike weeks mixed in.
16. Trey McBride, TE, ARI
The ultimate edge in fantasy football this season was easily Trey McBride after Jacoby Brissett took over as the Cardinals’ QB. McBride blew away the competition to finish as TE1 and averaged 18.6 points per game, 11th among non-quarterbacks. Arizona is among the plethora of teams that cleaned house and will have a new head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterback. Brissett is still under contract, but Kyler Murray is expected to be traded. I do think Brissett winds up starting a few games for the Cards next season, but I expect another long-term option on the roster. How drastic were McBride’s splits with Brissett under center? He saw an additional two targets per game, but the main factor was end zone targets. McBride had two in Murray’s five starts and a whopping 16 from Week 6 on with Brissett. McBride averaged nearly 10 more points per game after the QB change. He’s no doubt worthy of coming off the board as the TE1 next season, but I won’t be drafting him. I expect McBride to be around a late first to mid second-round pick, and while replicating his 2025 production would make him worth that capital, it’s a classic case of buying all the risk.
17. Cam Skattebo, RB, NYG
The equivalent of a slobbery English bulldog puppy, Cam Skattebo had his rookie season cut short due to injury, but that didn’t stop him from becoming an instant favorite among Giants fans and football fans in general. Skattebo had the fourth-highest yards after contact among running backs with at least 100 rush attempts at 2.8, unsurprisingly, as Skatt actively sought out contact during his tenure as the lead back. The Giants’ offensive line improvements played a part, as did having Jaxson Dart at quarterback. But with Todd Monken expected to become the team’s offensive coordinator once the Harbaugh deal is finalized (still in talks at the time of writing), Skattebo will have an OC who has produced monster fantasy seasons for running backs. As much as I love Skatt, don’t buy into all the risk and draft him as an RB1. But if you’re able to get him at an RB2, you’re buying at his floor with upside for more.
One thing you should know Dom…
DON'T MESS WITH CAM SKATTEBO!!! 😤@Giants pic.twitter.com/4tFeiwnS5k
— WWE (@WWE) November 18, 2025
Bump him up a few spots for shoving big head J.D. McDonagh to the ground.
18. George Pickens, WR, DAL
George Pickens enjoyed a career year in Dallas, finishing as the WR6 in points per game and WR5 in total points. Pickens set career highs across all receiving stats, proving he has the WR1 upside we saw flashes of in the Steel City. But that upside also came with bouts of disinterest, putting a damper on what should have been a positive season. If he re-signs with Dallas, slot Pickens right back in the low-end WR1, high-end WR2 range with a chance to go nuclear each and every week. If he signs elsewhere, his upside depends on the situation. On a pass-friendly offense as the top target, Pickens has top-five potential, as we just saw this past season. Our very own Brett Ford has Pickens as his top free agent in the 2026 class, and you can check out the rest of his rankings here if you so choose.
19. James Cook III, RB, BUF
James Cook heard what you said about touchdown regression. He said you can take it, shine it up real nice, turn it sideways, and [REDACTED] [REDACTED] [REDACTED] [ILLEGAL TO SAY OR TYPE IN 48 STATES] [REDACTED].
Anywho… Cook is the stud fantasy back nobody seems to want to draft come August and regrets the decision come September. Yeah, the Bills back scored four fewer touchdowns than in 2024, but that doesn’t really matter when you get an additional 102 carries and two extra targets. He was one of seven backs to average over five yards per carry, finishing as an RB1 for the third consecutive season and recording his second straight top-10 finish.
20. A.J. Brown, WR, PHI
With all the drama surrounding A.J. Brown and the Eagles, you’d think he had the worst season of his career. However, the dude was still a WR1, catching 7+ touchdowns and gaining 1000+ receiving yards for the fourth straight season while finishing one spot ahead of CeeDee Lamb in points per game. Brown is getting a little long in the tooth, turning 29 in the offseason. But he has plenty of juice left in the tank, and whether it’s in Philadelphia or another city, I’ll be willing to buy the dip on Arthur Juan. There’s little to no risk drafting him as a WR2.
21. Brock Bowers, TE, LV
Despite playing in just 12 games, Brock Bowers finished as TE11 in total points and was tied with Tucker Kraft and George Kittle for TE2 in points per game behind Trey McBride. With a better quarterback (assumedly) in Fernando Mendoza, a hopefully better coaching staff and offense, Bowers is right in the conversation for TE1 in fantasy and should be one of the top three tight ends off the board. He’s not three.
22. Omarion Hampton, RB, LAC
Omarion Hampton was in line to become the next great rookie running back before suffering a sprained ankle that cost him nearly half the season. The former Tar Heel was on his way to his third straight 20-point game in Week 5 before leaving with the injury. Despite being eased back in upon his return, he finished the regular season strong. Hampton scored 14+ fantasy points in three of the Chargers’ final four regular-season games, even at less than 100%, and Kimani Vidal was involved. Najee Harris is likely gone after signing a 1-year prove-it deal that he never got a chance to, you know, prove it. Technically, Vidal is a free agent, but as an Exclusive Rights Free Agent, the Chargers can sign him to a minimal deal to bring him back. I expect Vidal to return and possibly a veteran signing to handle some of the grunt work, but Hampton should pick right back up as the bell cow and potential RB1 stud.
23. Ashton Jeanty, RB, LV
First off, if you’re reading this, I’m sorry, Nick Pollack. I convinced you to take him. I waxed poetic about Ashton Jeanty and why he’s worthy of a first-round pick, and you took him in the QB List Legacy League. For that, I will be forever remorseful. I knew the Raiders’ offensive line was going to be bad, but I didn’t expect it to be literally ranked dead last by PFF. Among running backs with at least 100 attempts, Jeanty had the second-worst yards before contact, second-worst success rate, and third-worst stuff rate. Thankfully for Jeanty, he’ll have a whole new coaching staff, almost certainly a new quarterback (hey there, Fernando Mendoza), and hopefully an improved offensive line. The talent is there. If Jeanty just gets decent run blocking, he can put up top-five fantasy numbers. If his ADP is suppressed due to scorned fantasy managers, Jeanty could wind up one of the steals of 2026.
24. Josh Allen, QB, BUF
Six straight seasons with a top-two finish. In the midst of his prime, there’s no reason not to rank and/or draft Allen as the QB1.
Josh Allen is good at football. Sometimes, it really is that simple.
25. Tetairoa McMillan, WR, CAR
Had it not been for the inconsistent play from quarterback Bryce Young, Tetairoa McMillan could have easily finished as a WR1 in his first season in the league. Tet ended the season as WR16, catching 70 of 122 targets for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns. Nothing to be mad about, but enough to show his upside if there had been consistent quarterback play. McMillan had the fifth-highest yards per reception despite Young ranking third-lowest in yards per game and yards per attempt. To put it clearly, Young had a worse quarterback rating than soon-to-be-former Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Tet is set to take a step forward in his sophomore season if he can get some stability from the quarterback position. He’s an excellent WR2 with a relatively safe floor and top-10 upside if he truly breaks out.
26. Drake Maye, QB, NE
Drake “Drake Maye” Maye is the only player in the conversation for 2025 MVP alongside Matthew Stafford. The former Tar Heel ended the regular season ranking first in completion percentage, yards per attempt, and passer rating, and threw the third-most touchdowns (behind Stafford and Jared Goff). Maye also has a bit of wiggle, adding 450 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. Depending on the scoring format, Maye finished second to Josh Allen by around 10 points. If any quarterback’s going to knock Allen from the QB1 pedestal, it’s going to be Maye.
Tier 3: The Toy Story Tier
If they jump a tier, the buzz will last lightyears.
27. Chris Olave, WR, NO
The Saints may have missed the playoffs, but a perfect storm of no running game, no real competition for targets (after Rashid Shaheed’s trade), and a team constantly playing from behind led Chris Olave to his best season. He finished fifth with 151 targets, caught 100 passes for the first time, and reached 1000 yards for the third time in four seasons. Among receivers with 100+ targets, Olave finished 17th in yards per target, 20th in yards per reception, and last in yards after contact. Only Olave and Davante Adams had yards after the catch under three. I foresee Olave having a hard time replicating his top 10 fantasy finish in 2026. He was a steal at his ADP last season, but he risks being over-drafted if he comes off the board among the top 12.
28. Garrett Wilson, WR, NYJ
The lone bright spot in yet another dumpster fire of a season for the Jets, Garrett Wilson played in just seven games due to injury. Despite playing in less than half the team’s games, he led the team in receiving yards with 395. It’s pretty simple with Wilson. He’s an elite talent who’d be a perennial WR1 overall candidate if he could get a quarterback with a cannon. But he keeps getting ones with Nerf guns. His 30% target share kept him afloat and likely will remain high no matter who the quarterback is in New York next season. The draft has gotten shallow at the top, so who his thrower of the football will be is still a question, and will be for quite a while.
29. Tee Higgins, WR, CIN
Tee Higgins is among the five receivers to have eight or more touchdowns in each of the past two years. Higgins reaching that mark may be the most impressive of the bunch, considering he missed multiple games due to concussions and was without his starting quarterback for most of the season. Joe Flacco was a step up from Jake Browning, but he’s still no Joe Burrow. Higgins will occupy his typical high-end WR2/low-end WR1 status again in 2026.
30. Lamar Jackson, QB, BAL
It’s been said ad nauseam that Lamar Jackson never looked the same after an early-season hamstring injury stalled his scorching hot start to the season. But in the words of Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle, it’s true, it’s true. With the shocking news of John Harbaugh‘s firing came the revelation that Jackson and the offensive coordinator were rumored not to even be on speaking terms. Even in a “down” year, Jackson scored 23 total touchdowns in just 13 games. He’ll have a new head coach for the first time in his career and a new offense, but he’ll be heavily involved in the decisions on both. Jackson is still one of the elite fantasy quarterbacks, and any sort of discount offered would be free money.
31. Kenneth Walker III, RB, SEA
There’s a running back who’s the reason for the teardrops on my guitar keyboard. Watching Kenneth Walker break tackles (first in missed tackles forced per attempt), run ever so explosively (second-highest explosive run rate), then get immediately lifted from the game for Zach Charbonnet was enough to make me want to drop-kick my TV. But the good news is it’s officially time to FREE KENNY WALKER. He’s a free agent, and I pray to sweet baby Jesus, in your fleece diaper and golden manger, that he signs with a team that will fully unleash the beast. He left some room for improvement in yards after contact, but even if it doesn’t improve much, his talent in other areas is enough to overcome it. It’s a similar situation to Breece Hall‘s. The talent is there; he just needs to go to the right situation. If Walker lands on a team where he’ll get most carries and a serviceable run-blocking line, he has darkhorse RB1 overall upside.
32. Colston Loveland, TE, CHI
Although the rookie tight end didn’t have his first double-digit game until Week 9, Colston Loveland finished as a TE1 for the season, thanks to scoring 10+ points in seven of 10 games down the stretch. Cole Kmet was much more involved early in the season, but Loveland had the typical rookie second-half surge. It helped that various receivers were dealing with injuries, but the cat is out of the bag, and he’s not going back in. (Side note: who puts a cat in a bag? Seriously!) Loveland will be one of the first tight ends off the board next season, and deservedly so. But don’t buy all the risk and reach for him in the early-middle rounds.
33. Chase Brown, RB, CIN
Chase Brown is a great example of why it’s important not to get stuck in a take-lock. I was not in on Brown entering the season, at least where he was going at ADP. He’s been inefficient and inexplosive over his career, propped up by volume. By midseason, it was evident that volume wasn’t going anywhere, and he added additional pass-game work to his repertoire. He still averaged just 4.39 yards per carry and had a 3.9% explosive run rate. He handled 61% of the team’s carries and set career highs with 69 catches, 89 targets, and five touchdowns. Where Brown lands in the rankings closer to the season depends on whether the Bengals add a significant piece in the backfield this offseason.
34. Bucky Irving, RB, TB
A lost season for Bucky Irving may have cost him more than just multiple games. It also cost him his role as the goal-line back for the Bucs, at least in the closing weeks of the 2025 season. He still showed flashes that made him one of the most dynamic rookies of 2024, but his struggles at the goal line opened the opportunity for Sean Tucker to steal the job, and he did. Irving ranked dead last in yards per carry among running backs with at least 100 carries and was seventh-worst in explosive run rate. Rachaad White is a free agent, and if he leaves town, it could open up a few extra touches, but Tucker is more likely to be the beneficiary there. Bucky has an offseason to get healthy and will lead the Bucs’ backfield in 2026. But if Tucker continues to hoard the goal-line work, Irving’s ceiling is capped.
35. Ladd McConkey, WR, LAC
What a weird season it was for Ladd McConkey, kind of a reverse turd sandwich, if you will. He had a productive midseason stretch that was bookended by a whole lot of suck. McConkey failed to score 10 points in three of the first four weeks and in four of the final six, but in the middle of the season, he had five of six games over 14 fantasy points and a trio of 20-pointers. The Chargers’ offensive line was an injury-plagued mess, giving Justin Herbert no time and a broken hand to boot. McConkey was honestly being overdrafted as a WR1, but if he falls back into WR2 territory, he’ll be a nice value heading into next season.
36. Jameson Williams, WR, DET
Jameson Williams shed some of his boom-bust label and finished inside the top 12 for the first time in his career. But would he have done so if Sam LaPorta had been healthy all season? The world may never know, but Jamo put on a clinic this season, ranking third in yards per target and yards per reception, and fifth in yards after the catch per reception. While the Drew Petzing OC hire isn’t as conducive to fantasy production as say, Mike McDaniel would have been, we’ve seen what Jamo can do when given a significant role in the offense. He’ll always have that boom upside, but how regular a bust he’ll be is still up in the air.
37. Joe Burrow, QB, CIN
It was another lost season for Joe Burrow due to injury, and he was visibly frustrated with the state of the team toward the end of the season. He made a valiant effort to lead Cincy to an unlikely playoff berth and looked every bit the top-tier thrower of the football upon his return. Burrow heads into 2026 with arguably the best duo of receivers in the league, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see the team do whatever Burrow wants this offseason to appease him. He’ll once again be an elite fantasy option at quarterback as long as he’s healthy.
Tier 4: The GigaPet Tier
Vintage studs and hungry pups who need just a little hourly care.
38. Davante Adams, WR, LAR
If you’ve poked around these rankings for more than just a player or two, you’ll see this same stat repeated a few times. But any player who can repeat something as unpredictable as touchdowns is worth mentioning, and Adams is one of five who caught eight or more in each of the last two seasons. In fact, Adams has caught eight or more in six straight seasons. That being said, he’s no longer the alpha he once was, and that’s okay. His 14 touchdown receptions more than made up for it, but he had the second-lowest yards after the catch per reception among receivers with 50+ targets at 1.93. He basically became a goal-line receiver. There’s a lot up in the air with the Rams next season, and Adams’ production is heavily reliant on the return of Matthew Stafford. Assuming Stafford’s back, Adams slots right in as a solid WR2 who will win you some weeks when he catches a couple tuddys.
39. Saquon Barkley, RB, PHI
The fabled curse of 370 did hit Saquon Barkley last season, but not as badly as you may think. His efficiency and explosiveness certainly weren’t the same. He ranked 20th among the 49 running backs with at least 100 carries in explosive run rate and 33rd with a 4.07 yards per carry, a far cry from finishing second in yards per carry and fourth in explosive run rate in 2024. But he was still a borderline RB1 and remained plenty involved in the offense, not missing a single game due to injury. I see him in the same boat as Derrick Henry. He’s a back-end RB1 who will be drafted like a top-tier back, as in the past. If you can get him at an RB2 cost, I’m all for it. But the upside is no longer worth the first- or second-round price tag.
40. Zay Flowers, WR, BAL
Zay Flowers was solid overall through Week 13 but finished the season 🔥en fuego🔥. His 12.1 points per game nearly doubled to 20.3 over the final five weeks. How nice of him to lead all of his fantasy managers to the consolation bracket championship! I was a big fan of Flowers coming into the season, but the torrid end to the season bumped him into the top 10 in total points and just outside the top 12 in points per game. I fear that will inflate his ADP, which doesn’t belong. Baltimore cleaning house also means he’ll have a new offensive coordinator, and it may not be as fantasy-friendly for Flowers. Former OC Todd Monken’s offense is known for hyper-targeting WR1s. He’s too inconsistent to consider drafting as a WR1, but Flowers is a rock-solid WR2 who will have some spike weeks.
41. Breece Hall, RB, NYJ
Breece Hall is one of the most intriguing running backs heading into the 2026 offseason. The talent has always been there; he’s one of four running backs with at least 100 carries to have a 7% or higher explosive run rate. He’s been with the Jets. He has three straight seasons with over 1,300 total yards and is just two seasons removed from an RB2 overall finish. His ranking depends solely on where he signs in free agency. If he ends up on the Chiefs, the Ravens, or another running back-needy team where he’ll see a ton of work, RB1 overall isn’t out of the question. But if he takes a bag to sign with a team where he’ll share the workload, or gulp, goes back to the Jets, he’ll remain on “RB2 with upside” island.
42. Jaylen Waddle, WR, MIA
It’s hard to rank any of the players on teams that have cleaned house of their coaching staff and, more than likely, their quarterback as well. Jaylen Waddle is one of those guys. Tyreek Hill is technically still on the roster, but I expect Miami to cut him with a new offensive coordinator and a new quarterback. The jury’s still out on what kind of upside we’ll see from Waddle in 2026. But he was able to overcome the Dolphins’ issues this season to rank in the top 12 in both targets per route run and yards per route run. He’s at worst a WR2 with WR1 talent if things click in the new-look Dolphins offense.
43. TreVeyon Henderson, RB, NE
If you read any of my work last season, you know how much I love TreVeyon Henderson‘s skill set. His frustrating usage in 2025 was a flame-throwing display every time he took a 50+ rushing touchdown to the house. But I fear that Rhamondre Stevenson isn’t going away anytime soon. Stevenson was actually the more explosive runner of the two and forced more missed tackles. Stevenson was also the better pass catcher, with higher yards per route run and yards after contact. Hendo was plenty good, as evidenced by his 5.6% explosive run rate and having the best yards before contact in the league. That man is fast. But Stevenson is signed through 2028 and the apple of Mike Vrabel‘s eye. His presence caps Henderson’s top-10 potential.
44. DeVonta Smith, WR, PHI
DeVonta Smith is one of those guys who’s a better NFL player than he is in fantasy. This isn’t me poo-pooing Smith’s talent; he’s a phenomenal football player. But his highest fantasy finish in points per game is WR15 in 2022. Smith doesn’t have top-10 potential with Jalen Hurts under center, even if the Eagles move on from A.J. Brown. He had more games under 10 points (ten) than over (seven). Smith’s a solid yet unspectacular WR2 who will sprinkle in some spike weeks, but has far too many duds to make it worth the price tag.
45. Josh Jacobs, RB, GB
Josh Jacobs had another RB1 season, but it was heavily inflated by touchdowns. Jacobs’ inefficiency was masked by the scores, averaging under 4 yards per carry for the third time in his career. Among the 49 running backs with at least 100 carries, Jacobs ranked 22nd in explosive run rate and 35th in yards per carry. Teetering toward the dreaded 28-year age cliff with a heavy reliance on touchdowns and only playing a full season twice, I’m likely avoiding Jacobs next season unless he can be had at an RB2 price tag.
46. Emeka Egbuka, WR, TB
I’ve been playing fantasy football since the late 90s, and I can’t remember another rookie season quite like Emeka Egbuka‘s. The dude went bonkers early in the season, with three games over 20 points in his first five (including a 30-burger), averaging 15.4 points per game from Weeks 1-8. The second half of the season was ugly, and he ain’t got no alibi. From Weeks 10-18, Egbuka’s PPG dropped by nearly half to 8.1. His struggles weren’t due to target share, either, as he had seven or more in seven of 10 games and more than nine thrice. Once Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan returned, his target share dropped to 13.5, but Egbuka still had the second-highest yards per reception and the highest yards after the catch per reception on the team. Evans could retire this offseason, but even if he doesn’t, he’s getting up there in age. I still believe in Egbuka’s talent and plan to draft him wherever I can get him as a WR2.
47. Derrick Henry, RB, BAL
Derrick Henry isn’t from this planet. I’m pretty sure he eats barbed wire and turns it into concrete. He’s an absolute monster who is still smashing through defenders into his mid-30s, and he’ll continue to do so until he says he’s done. King Henry finished the season as RB8 with a 5.2 yards per carry (third-highest) and the 6.8% explosive run rate (seventh). But he is slowing down slightly (please don’t tell him I said that). His 2.39 yards after contact per attempt were the fifth straight season in which the number declined, and his second straight season under three. He’s aging as gracefully as Vanna White, but I’m afraid I won’t be drafting him among the top 12 backs next season. I’m much more comfortable having him as my RB2.
48. Luther Burden III, WR, CHI
The Bears have an embarrassment of riches at receiver, and that has allowed them to ease Luther Burden III into the offense. From a ranking standpoint, Burden doesn’t stand out (he finished as WR48 in PPR), but when Rome Odunze missed, Burden took full advantage of the extra playing time. In games without Odunze, Burden averaged an extra three targets, three catches, 51 yards, and nine points per game. Additionally, Burden finished third in yards per route run, only behind Puka Nacua and Jaxson Smith-Njigba. Rome isn’t going anywhere, but as DJ Moore transitions into more of a complementary receiver in the twilight of his prime, he should continue to see his role grow and has the potential to be a fantasy force as early as the upcoming season.
49. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, ARI
Marvin Harrison Jr. is an enigma. He had the fourth-most end zone targets among all players, even with teammate Trey McBride ahead of him, but had just two touchdowns through the first eight weeks. Coming out of the bye, Harrison scored in back-to-back games… then had an emergency appendectomy. Harrison didn’t play all that badly in 2025, but the combination of his unreal hype coming out of college and Michael Wilson playing like Jerry Rice has a lot of people down on MHJ heading into 2026. But with a new offensive system and likely a new quarterback, hope lingers for Harrison to achieve his elite pedigree. He’s a buy-low for me.
50. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, JAC
If Brian Thomas Jr. wasn’t the biggest bust of the year, he’d be rubbing elbows with them. But fear not, all hope isn’t lost for our beloved BTJ. Our expectations just have to be adjusted. Early in the season, he simply didn’t look like himself, dropping passes and, dare I say, looking scared to take hits. But after returning from injury, he got some of his swagger back and started showing his skill set by making some incredible catches like this one.
BTJ ONE-HANDER WOW.
INDvsJAX on CBS/Paramount+https://t.co/HkKw7uXVnt pic.twitter.com/nWfaYRE4nw
— NFL (@NFL) December 7, 2025
Thomas finished 13th in yards per reception and totaled 23 deep targets, tied for fifth most with multiple receivers despite playing in two fewer games than the rest of that grouping. After the Jags traded for and extended Jakobi Meyers and drafted Travis Hunter, there’s a slim chance he’ll be the top-12 receiver we saw at the back end of his rookie season. It’s time to accept BTJ for what he isn’t: a top 10 elite fantasy receiver. However, that doesn’t mean he’s not a valuable fantasy asset; we just need to adjust our expectations. BTJ is more of a volatile WR2 with tremendous upside in an ever-improving Liam Coen Jacksonville offense. He could wind up being a value if scorned fantasy managers go full BTJ fade in 2026.
51. Rome Odunze, WR, CHI
As good as Rome Odunze looked to start the season, I was honestly shocked to see he had only two games over 20 points and finished as the WR28 in ppg. But there is more to the story than I think most realize. When Odunze suffered a stress fracture in his foot against the Eagles on Black Friday, it was revealed that he had been dealing with foot issues since October that had progressively gotten worse. It just so happens that October is when Odunze’s production started to drop. When healthy, he has the talent and role in an improving offense to become a top-10 fantasy receiver year in and year out. I’m drafting him with no hesitation in 2026.
52. Kyren Williams, RB, LAR
I just don’t get Kyren Williams. He isn’t particularly efficient or explosive, yet somehow he ends up as an RB1 seemingly every season. Out of the 49 running backs with at least 100 carries in 2025, he was 11th in yards per carry and first in success rate (how often the running back picks up positive yardage by converting downs. The thresholds are at least 40% on 1st down, 60% on 2nd down, and 100% on 3rd or 4th down). Guess who was second? Teammate Blake Corum. So is the success rate due to the scheme or the skill? That’s the hard part here, and at least to me, Corum looks like the much better back on the field. Williams ranked 21st in explosive run rate (Corum was sixth), 25th in missed force tackles per attempt (Corum 11th), and 18th in yards after contact per attempt (Corum 25th). Williams has shown me enough that I can no longer fade him at all costs, but I wouldn’t pay an RB1 price tag for him, especially the way Corum played down the stretch.
53. Jayden Daniels, QB, WAS
Considering he dislocated his throwing elbow in an injury that looked much worse than it was, Jayden Daniels’ season could have been much worse. Daniels scored multiple touchdowns and gained 250+ total yards in every game he started and finished. Offensive Coordinator Kliff Kingsbury departed the team, much to the chagrin of Daniels. But Washington hired David Blough (whom Daniels has a close relationship with) to replace him, and it’s expected Washington will maintain a similar style offense as Daniels’ first two seasons. Daniels’ stature and propensity to take big hits have some concerned about his long-term viability in the league. But at least for 2026, Daniels has a full offseason to get healthy and gain stability in the offensive system despite his new offensive coordinator, David Blough. That name again is Mr. Blough.
Tier 5: The “Area 51” Tier
There’s definitely something there, but will it stay hidden from the public?
54. Courtland Sutton, WR, DEN
Courtland Sutton followed up his breakout 2024 by finishing five spots higher in points per game, moving from WR27 to WR22, even though he averaged 1.2 points fewer. I mention that as a reminder not to blindly follow player rankings from year to year; make sure to look at the actual stats for added context. That being said, Sutton brushed off a midseason takeover attempt from Troy Franklin to finish as the Broncos’ WR1. Sutton entered the Broncos’ Week 12 bye with four straight games under 11 points and came out of it averaging 16.5 ppg the rest of the way, finishing as a WR9 over that period. He’s getting a little long in the tooth, but if the Broncos don’t add any weapons this offseason, he’ll be in line for a third straight season as Bo Nix‘s go-to and a rock-solid WR2/3.
55. Jaylen Warren, RB, PIT
Jaylen Warren could go into 2026 underrated by many analysts once again. But I won’t make the same mistake and be one of those analysts, as I was in 2025. Warren ranked 13th in explosive run rate, sixth in yards after contact, and fifth in missed tackles forced per attempt. He’s involved in the passing game as well, averaging 46 catches over the past three seasons. The emergence of Kenneth Gainwell may have masked how good Warren was. Gainwell is a free agent in 2026 and could end up elsewhere, especially with the drastically changing scenario in Pittsburgh. Warren is a fantastic RB2 target who you may be able to get at an RB3 price tag.
56. Tyler Warren, TE, IND
Will the real Tyler Warren please stand up? The stud rookie started as an offensive rookie-of-the-year candidate, averaging 13.6 points per game over the first ten weeks. But from Week 11 on, that dropped to 7.5 PPG. His per-game struggles began before Daniel Jones‘ season-ending injury, so it can’t be (entirely) pinned on that. With the defense playing well and Jonathan Taylor running the ball, Indy didn’t have to air it out much in the middle of the season. With such a loaded group of pass catchers, it came as no surprise that someone would inevitably get left out. The good news for Warren is that both Alec Pierce and Michael Pittman Jr. are free agents. While it’s still too early to know for sure, it sounds like the Colts would re-sign at most one of the receivers, so there should be plenty of targets to go around. Daniel Jones is also a free agent, however, and is recovering from a torn ACL, so there are a lot of question marks for the Colts offense as we head into the offseason. But Warren should be fine and will be a target of mine if there’s any sort of dip in draft cost.
57. Javonte Williams, RB, DAL
Javonte Williams signed a one-year deal with Dallas and made the most of it. The former Bronco finished the season as the RB12, averaging 15.2 points per game, and had the third-highest yards after contact (2.91) among backs with at least 100 rushing attempts. Williams was one of the league’s hottest backs to start the season, scoring 19 or more points in four of his first five games. He didn’t reach that mark again after Week 5, but he was as consistent as a ‘Now That’s What I Call Music’ tracklist, scoring 10+ points in all but three of his remaining starts. Williams is a free agent in a ridiculously deep running back class, so his 2026 home is TBD. But he showed enough to prove he still has what it takes to be a team’s bellcow and back-end RB1 in the right situation.
58. Jaxson Dart, QB, NYG
It seems the New York Football Giants finally have their quarterback of the future in Jaxson Dart. What could have been for the Giants if he had started from day one and Malik Nabers had stayed healthy? Dart set multiple records in his rookie season: the first rookie quarterback with multiple games of 240+ passing yards, 60+ rushing yards, and two or more total touchdowns; the first quarterback to accumulate 1,800+ passing yards, 400+ rushing yards, and 20+ total touchdowns in his first nine career starts; and the first quarterback to score a rushing touchdown in five consecutive games. Oh, and new head coach John Harbaugh is expected to bring Todd Monken to New York to be his offensive coordinator. He’s the perfect guy to help Dart improve as a passer. Monken helped Lamar Jackson win his second MVP in 2023; Lamar also had his only two seasons with 3,500+ passing yards from 2023-2024, and reached 41 passing touchdowns with Monken in 2024. Dart will need to work on protecting himself from big hits, but as long as he stays on the field, he’s a borderline QB1 with QB1 overall potential.
59. Quinshon Judkins, RB, CLE
Quinshon Judkins had the fourth-fewest yards per carry, ranked 40th in explosive run rate, and had just one game with over 100 rushing yards. But I’m not ready to give up on him just yet. As disheartening as the Browns’ pass game was, teams loaded up against the run when they played Cleveland. Judkins ranked 46th of 49 in yards before contact (min 100 carries) and had the highest stuff rate in the NFL. He faced 7+ men in the box at the highest rate in the NFL (95%) and was one of five backs who faced a stacked box 54% or more of their carries. He was finally starting to get more involved in the passing game before suffering a gruesome dislocated ankle and fractured fibula in December. As awful as that sounds, it was a best-case scenario injury-wise, as he’s expected to be ready for Week 1 of 2026. If Judkins can get a little more room to work with, he can put up solid RB2 numbers.
60. Travis Etienne Jr., RB, JAC
I’m willing to admit when I’m wrong, and even though Travis Etienne Jr. finished as RB14 in points per game, I still think my process of fading him was the right one. Nobody could have seen Tank Bigsby‘s trade coming, and although ETN started the season 🔥en fuego🔥, the same issues persisted. Etienne ranked 32nd in yards after contact, 27th in explosive run rate, and 22nd in yards per carry. So how’d he finish so high? Touchdowns, baby! Etienne had a career-high 13 touchdowns, with nearly half coming on another career-high, six touchdown receptions. Etienne came into the season with one career touchdown reception. Touchdowns are among the most volatile stats from year to year and are nearly impossible to predict. With his inefficient, explosive rushing production so heavily touchdown-reliant, I’m likely staying far away from the free agent to be, whether he’s back in Jacksonville or somewhere else.
61. Jakobi Meyers, WR, JAC
Jakobi Meyers went from an afterthought in Las Vegas to Trevor Lawrence‘s favorite target after a midseason trade to Jacksonville. Meyers averaged 12.4 points per game with the Jaguars from Weeks 10-17, and the team rewarded him with a three-year contract extension to keep him in Duval for a long time. He led the Jaguars with a 21.8% target share and was second to Parker Washington with 1.88 yards per route run. There will be plenty of mouths to feed, especially with the return of Travis Hunter. But Meyers appears to be a fixture in the offense and makes for a rock-solid WR3 with plenty of upside.
62. Trevor Lawrence, QB, JAC
Trevor Lawrence finally put it all together and had the best season of his career under Liam Coen. Lawrence recorded 38 touchdowns and threw downfield a butt ton, ranking second in deep attempts and first in deep yards per game. He has a loaded receiver room with Jakobi Meyers, Brian Thomas Jr., Parker Washington, and Travis Hunter. Coen seems to have finally unlocked Lawrence, helping him achieve his first top-five fantasy season, and nothing suggests he’ll slow down in 2026.
63. Christian Watson, WR, GB
Christian Watson was easily the Packers’ most dynamic pass catcher in 2025 and one of the best in the league. He ranked fifth with 2.67 yards per route run, third with 17.46 yards per reception, and fourth with 11.11 yards per target. Granted, Watson did so with Jayden Reed hurt for much of the season. But Watson’s numbers didn’t change all that much when they were both on the field. Watson saw virtually the same number of targets, caught the same number of passes, and averaged just four fewer yards with Reed, as well as a negligible 1.3 fantasy points less per game. Watson may head into 2026 underrated, with many expecting his breakout was due to Reed’s absence. If that’s the case, buy that delicious dip.
64. Mike Evans, WR, TB
Injury after injury led to the legendary 1,000-receiving-yard streak ending for Mike Evans. Evans played in just eight games, in part because of a broken collarbone, and will be 33 at the start of the season. Evans had a league-low 1.33 yards after catch per reception among those with at least 50 targets. Chris Godwin will be a year removed from his gruesome injury, and both Emeka Egbuka and Jalen McMillan will be a year further into their NFL careers. View Evans as similar to Davante Adams, a solid WR2 who will have a few spike weeks. The problem is that Evans has more competition for targets and nowhere near the touchdown upside.
65. D’Andre Swift, RB, CHI
In the words of Nick Pollack, “Swift Doesn’t Miss.” D’Andre Swift has never finished outside the top 24 running backs in points per game and finished as RB17 in 2025 despite sharing a backfield with a capable runner in Caleb Williams and a promising rookie in Kyle Monangai. Swift ranked in the top 10 in yards per carry and yards per reception and in the top five in yards after the catch per reception. His skill set makes him useful in fantasy even with a partial workload, and Swift likely heads into 2026 underrated once again. Be like Swift. Don’t miss on D’Andre.
66. Kyle Pitts Sr., TE, ATL
Good things happen when you get Kyle Pitts the ball, and it finally seems like the Falcons have figured that out. It’s a little too late for Raheem Morris, but new head coach Kevin Stefanski wasn’t afraid to feature tight ends in Cleveland, a promising sign for Pitts’ future. Pitts finished in the top five in yards per route run and yards after contact per reception, setting career highs across the board and earning his first top-five fantasy finish. Kyle Pitts Szn was finally real, and it was spectacular.
67. DK Metcalf, WR, PIT
It’s long past time we had a conversation about DK Metcalf. He’s easily one of the most athletic receivers in the league, but it’s been quite a while since we’ve seen the top end of his upside. His first year in Pittsburgh was not great, Bob, with just two games over 100 yards, his first season under 60 receptions since his rookie year, and a career-low 850 receiving yards. Granted, that was on an Arthur Smith-run offense led by the ghost of Aaron Rodgers, but the Steelers cleaned house and will have a new coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterback. We have no idea what this offense is going to look like, but regardless, it’s hard to be bullish on DK for fantasy purposes.
68. Terry McLaurin, WR, WAS
It wasn’t just Jayden Daniels who struggled to stay on the field for Washington. Terry McLaurin had injury issues of his own. But when he was on the field, he was the same ole Scary Terry, ranking sixth in yards per reception and 13th in yards per route run, despite playing more snaps with Marcus Mariota than with Daniels. His ten-touchdown season is likely a one-year wonder, but McLaurin is a perfect WR2 target who could come at a discount after a disappointing 2025.
69. Trey Benson, RB, ARI
Trey Benson missed almost the entire season after four games, but he showed why I was so high on him in that short sample. Benson averaged 5.52 yards per carry, had a 6.9% explosive run rate, and forced 3.2 yards after contact per attempt. I hope people forget how fantastic he looked in his short time on the field, because unless the Cardinals add a significant piece in the backfield, I’ll be drafting lots and lots of Benson in 2026.
70. Jalen Hurts, QB, PHI
Jalen Hurts seems like a great guy. He’s a fantastic fantasy quarterback. But he’s not the best passer of the football. There have been rumblings during the offseason about drama in the Philly locker room, driven by the coaching staff and front office failing to criticize Hurts and his shortcomings. There’s even talk that the Eagles could draft or add a quarterback this offseason to motivate him. How much of that is true is hard to say, but often in these situations where there’s smoke, there’s fire. Hurts remains a QB1 in fantasy thanks to his legs, but especially if the Eagles trade A.J. Brown, his top-five fantasy days may be over.
71. Chris Godwin Jr., WR, TB
It took Chris Godwin more than half the season to score 10 or more fantasy points in a game, but that’s not surprising, as he didn’t return until Week 4 from a gruesome ankle injury from last season and missed more time due to additional issues. Godwin will be 30 years old this offseason and is no guarantee to be on the Bucs roster next season with a hefty contract. If he does return, he’s a decent WR3, but not someone I’m looking to draft, as his upside is gone with his age and injury issues.
72. Rico Dowdle, RB, CAR
Rico Dowdle signed a 1-year “prove it” deal with the Panthers last offseason, and for the most part, he certainly did. He was a major part of the Panthers’ success and surprise playoff appearance, outperforming Chuba Hubbard in yards per carry, explosive run rate, missed forced tackles, yards after contact per attempt, and the list goes on and on. It seems Dowdle wasn’t too happy with his questionable usage, per his post-playoff loss social media posts. With Hubbard still under contract and Jonathan Brooks returning from injury, I’d expect to see him elsewhere in 2026. If he can find a team willing to give him the lion’s share of the carries, we saw he’s plenty capable of putting up top-10 weeks.
73. George Kittle, TE, SF
George Kittle is just one of those guys. Even if you hate the 49ers, it’s impossible to hate him. That’s why it was so tough to see him carted off the field in the first round of the playoffs against the Eagles, ending this season and probably affecting next year as well. The recovery timeline for a torn Achilles is about 9 to 12 months, but Kittle is about to turn 33. I can speak from experience, as I approach my 40th birthday, that getting older doesn’t help with the speed of recovery from injury. His draftability won’t be known until probably mid-summer at the earliest.
74. Justin Herbert, QB, LAC
Justin Herbert came out of the gates blazing, throwing 16 touchdowns in his first eight games. But as the already suspect offensive line began to drop like flies due to injury, Herbert had less and less time to throw, and eventually ended up with a broken hand. Herbert had only two games with multiple touchdown passes after Week 9, but he still finished as a QB1. If the Chargers can shore up the o-line and give Herbie some time without pressure, there’s potential for a push into the top five.
75. Jordan Mason, RB MIN
I was aggressive in ranking Jordan Mason among the top 25 running backs last season, and he very well could wind up there for me again. But the Vikings’ offense was a dumpster fire, leaving Justin Jefferson as WR32 in points per game. I’m not making excuses for Mason; he definitely didn’t take advantage of the opportunity when Aaron Jones was placed on IR. But the underlying metrics remain. Mason had a 5.7% explosive run rate (tenth), 4.77 yards per carry (12th), and .19 missed tackles forced per attempt (ninth). I’m buying back in on Mason for 2026. Sometimes we’re not wrong, just early. I hope.
Tier 6: The “Is This a Pigeon?” Tier
You aren’t sure if they’re a superstar or role player, but you’re starting them.
76. Stefon Diggs, WR, NE
Stefon Diggs played 60% of offensive snaps in just three games this season but bounced back in New England just enough to finish as a WR2. Diggs finished inside the top 10 in yards per route run and had 1,000 receiving yards for the seventh time in his career. But at age 33 at the start of the season, the upside is nonexistent. He’s a fine WR3 but not much more.
77. RJ Harvey, RB, DEN
J.K. Dobbins was once again proving people wrong by holding off rookie RJ Harvey and having an excellent season in Denver before a season-ending injury in Week 10. Harvey stepped in and had some success, but he wasn’t particularly efficient or explosive. Dobbins ended the season with 5.05 yards per carry (seventh), 77.2 rushing yards per game (sixth), and a 7.8% explosive run rate (third). Harvey’s stats were, um, something. He had 3.7 yards per carry (42nd), 31.8 rushing yards per game (45th), and a 2.7% explosive run rate (42nd). Dobbins is a free agent, but he could certainly return to Denver; they signed him after drafting Harvey. Depending on what Harvey’s ADP turns out to be, he may be a full fade for me in 2026.
78. Kyle Monangai, RB, CHI
Kyle Monangai is a name you need to remember for 2026 because, even playing second fiddle to D’Andre Swift, he scored five touchdowns and posted double-digit fantasy points in all but two games in which he had at least ten touches. Monangai has mouth-watering upside, and even with Swift sticking around, I love Monangai as a solid FLEX with upside for spike weeks. We’ve seen two backs be fantasy-viable in a Ben Johnson offense before.
79. Patrick Mahomes II, QB, KC
Patrick Mahomes looked like “Showtime” Mahomes (the worst nickname ever) through about Week 8, but the Chiefs’ offense sputtered from Week 9 until his season-ending ACL injury. Even if Mahomes can rehab quickly enough to return by Week 1, as he hopes, he could be without Travis Kelce (possible retirement), Rashee Rice (possible suspension), and Hollywood Brown (Unrestricted Free Agent). I firmly believe Mahomes has multiple elite fantasy seasons left in him. But given that he’ll be returning from an ACL injury, possibly have a new offensive coordinator, and have multiple new pass catchers, 2026 may be the calm before the storm of a late-career surge a la Tom Brady.
80. Woody Marks, RB, HOU
Woody Marks teased us a few times before taking over the Texans’ backfield by season’s end, but it wasn’t pretty. Marks had the second-lowest yards per carry among running backs with at least 100 carries and was tied with Chuba Hubbard and Emanuel Wilson for the lowest missed tackles forced per attempt. I think Marks will have a solid role in the Texans’ offense in 2026, but I expect them to add a back to help carry the workload.
81. Travis Hunter, WR, JAC
Travis Hunter had some ridiculous highlight-reel catches, but that’s about it from a fantasy perspective outside of IDP. With the acquisition and extension of Jakobi Meyers, Hunter is likely to play more defense in 2026, making the chances of him becoming a fantasy force even slimmer. He’s likely someone I’m avoiding unless there’s a massive discount in 2026.
82. Michael Pittman Jr., WR, IND
Michael Pittman Jr. bounced back nicely after a disappointing 2024, but still finished just WR30 on a points-per-game basis. He set a career high with seven touchdowns, but he likely winds up elsewhere as the Colts could shift their focus to keeping Alec Pierce, who leapfrogged Pittman as the team’s WR1. Pittman can be a serviceable WR2 if he lands in the right situation
83. Michael Wilson, WR, ARI
Michael Wilson came out of nowhere to win the waiver wire league title. From weeks 10-17, Wilson was the second-most-targeted receiver in the league and ranked as the WR4 overall. Much of that production came without Marvin Harrison Jr. on the field and with Jacoby Brissett force-feeding him and Trey McBride. I fear Wilson will be over-drafted in 2026 and won’t match the numbers he put up with Brissett if/when someone else takes over at quarterback for the Cards. He’s a fine WR2, but don’t overpay.
84. Zach Charbonnet, RB, SEA
Zach Charbonnet is the bane of my existence. He seems like a nice guy, but he prevented my precious Kenneth Walker from having a fantasy season for the ages. I came around and understand why the Pats kept Rhamondre Stevenson involved this year. He’s at least played well. But Charbs? He bested Walker in one metric, with 2.62 yards after contact to 2.11 for KWIII. Charbonnet did rank inside the top 10 in missed forced tackles per attempt, which was cool. You know what’s cooler? Ranking first in missed forced tackles per attempt. You know who did? Kenneth Walker, who also had a better yards per carry, double the explosive run rate, and more than double the yards per route run in the passing game. Charbs is a solid back, and if Walker moves on in free agency, I actually don’t mind him as an RB2 depending on ADP. But forgiving him for holding back Walker’s potential in 2025 may be the hardest thing I’ll ever do.
85. Tucker Kraft, TE, GB
Tucker Kraft was enjoying a career year before being blindsided by a torn ACL, totaling nearly 500 receiving yards and six touchdowns in just eight games. Still just 25 years old, even if he’s unable to start the season, he should fully recover from the injury and pick up right where he left off. Kraft tied Brock Bowers and George Kittle for TE2 on a points-per-game basis.
86. Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, NYG
Wan’Dale Robinson caught 1,000 yards for the first time in his career and was the only receiver on the Giants worth rostering. Had Malik Nabers been healthy all season, Robinson likely wouldn’t have achieved the feat. But he showed what he’s capable of with enough volume and enters the offseason as a free agent. With Harbaugh and co. coming to New York, it’s unclear what their level of interest is in bringing him back. But wherever he lands, if Robinson can get a decent target share, he’s a solid WR3/WR2 best suited for PPR formats.
87. Harold Fannin Jr., TE, CLE
Harold Fannin Jr. was the only reliable pass-catcher for the Browns for about 99% of the season, which was enough to propel the uber-talented rookie to TE8 on a points-per-game basis. Fannin caught 72 passes and six touchdowns and even ran one in for a score. There’s so much in flux for Cleveland heading into 2026, but one thing is certain. Fannin is here to stay, for real football and fantasy.
88. Parker Washington, WR, JAC
One of the most underrated receivers in the league resides in Jacksonville, and his name is Parker Washington. Despite a crowded receiver room that included Travis Hunter and, after Hunter’s injury, Jakobi Meyers, Washington was the WR20 from Weeks 9-17. He finished 10th in yards per route run, eighth in yards per reception, and fifth in yards per target over expectation (with a minimum of 25 targets). Often, in situations like these (multiple receivers in a good offense), I tend to target the least expensive option. Why pay for the brand-name peanut butter when the Wal-Mart Brand is ¼ of the price, and you throw it out if it’s gross? I suspect I’ll have many sandwiches shares of PB&Washington next season.
89. Blake Corum, RB, LAR
Blake Corum. Fifth-highest yards per carry. Sixth-highest explosive run rate. Second-highest success rate. Still playing second fiddle to Kyren Williams. He started to see more work down the stretch, but until he supplants Williams on the depth chart, he’s a risky FLEX at best. He’s arguably the top handcuff heading into 2026.
Tier 7: The “Oops!… I Did It Again” Tier
You lose all my senses and can’t stop drafting these guys
90. Jordan Addison, WR, MIN
Jordan Addison is in legal trouble for the third straight offseason, just in time for the Vikings to decide whether to exercise their fifth-year option on him or exorcise him from the roster. Could he face league discipline? Be traded? Cut? It’s impossible to rank Addison with so much in flux.
91. Ricky Pearsall, WR, SF
For a guy who’s been over 10 fantasy points in less than 50% of his career games, Ricky Pearsall sure gets a whole lot of hype. I mean, I get it. He’s shown flashes and profiles as a perfect receiver for the Shanahan system. But he can’t seem to stay on the field (to be fair, the start of last season was in no way, shape, or form his fault), and his knee continues to flare up and linger for multiple games. I think Pearsall has decent upside, but where you have to draft him is buying all the risk, and I’m ok with being wrong if he blows up.
92. Dak Prescott, QB, DAL
It turns out that having two stud receivers and a porous defense is a recipe for fantasy success. Dak Prescott finished as QB9 in points per game, was in the top ten in yards per attempt and quarterback rating, and was just outside the top ten in completion percentage. George Pickens is a free agent, and should he return, Dak is an easy QB1 who should come at a value. If Pickens leaves, Dak’s upside would be capped.
93. Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, NE
I get why Mike Vrabel loves Rhamondre Stevenson. I didn’t during the season, but as I start my offseason process, looking back at season-long stats and watching film, the dude is just good. Top five in explosive run rate, missed forced tackles per attempt, and yards after contact per attempt. I can’t believe I’m saying this based on some of my reactions (and the fantasy community’s at large) during the season, but Vrabel was smart to stick with him despite the fumble issues. The problem here is that he’s holding back my bae, TreVeyon Henderson. Both profile as RB2s with upside due to the shared workload, and Stevenson probably comes with the discount between the two.
94. Quentin Johnston, WR, LAC
Quentin Johnston is one of the five I keep talking about. One of five receivers to score 8+ touchdowns over the last two seasons. Like his quarterback, Johnston started the season hot but cooled off significantly as the o-line play decayed. QJ has some upside, but the floor is rock bottom. He’s a prototypical boom-or-bust WR3.
95. Sam LaPorta, TE, DET
Sam LaPorta finished the season as TE7 in points per game, but it was cut short by a herniated disc in Week 10. The offense will look different in 2026 with Drew Petzing as the Lions’ new OC, but LaPorta should stay involved enough to remain a TE1 for fantasy purposes if his usage even sniffs a fraction of Trey McBride‘s in Arizona, where Petzing was before. He’s TE1 overall in points-per-mustache leagues.
96. Khalil Shakir, WR, BUF
Khalil Shakir is the most Romeo Doubs receiver that ever James Jonesed. He has no business operating as the top option for Josh Allen, but that’s what he did once again in 2025. Shakir ranked first in yards after contact per reception with 3.61, but he profiles more as a complementary receiver. Despite the attention brought to Allen’s lack of weapons and the heartbreaking divisional-round loss, I expect Buffalo to bring in some help. Shakir should be seen as a solid but boring WR3.
97. Dalton Kincaid, TE, BUF
Dalton Kincaid led the Bills (and all tight ends) in yards per route run and also topped the team in yards per reception, ranking fourth among tight ends. He was the Bills’ most explosive pass catcher, which reflects more on the team’s overall state than on Kincaid’s abilities. Although he struggled to stay healthy, when he is on the field, Kincaid is a borderline TE1. If the Bills don’t acquire any additional weapons this offseason, Kincaid would benefit the most.
98. Brock Purdy, QB, SF
It’s hard to judge Brock Purdy on a season as broken as his. While he missed plenty of time due to injury, he also went thermonuclear in the fantasy playoffs and helped at least a few managers win titles. Purdy didn’t push the ball downfield a ton, but he made it count when he did, finishing first in deep throw completion percentage (63.3) and second in yards per deep throw attempt (17.87). His receivers likely look different in 2026, with Jauan Jennings a free agent, George Kittle dealing with a torn Achilles, and Brandon Aiyuk lost in the Upside Down. But in Shanny’s system, Brock is a purdy good (I’m so, so sorry) option if you wait on quarterback.
99. Josh Downs, WR, IND
We’ve been teased with production from Josh Downs when given the targets, and there’s a good chance he’ll see a bump in 2026. Alec Pierce is a free agent, and Michael Pittman’s contract is structured to make him an easy cut with little dead cap, with the expectation he’ll move on this offseason. It’s a near-virtual lock that one of those receivers doesn’t return, and if neither does, Downs could be in line for a significant target share in 2026.
100. DJ Moore, WR, CHI
DJ Moore had the worst season since his rookie year and is not-so-gracefully slipping into a more complementary role than the borderline alpha he came to Chicago to be. Moore has a pretty hefty price tag and is a realistic cut or trade candidate, especially with the emergence of Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, and Colston Loveland. Depending on where he lands next season, Moore is likely a boom/bust WR3 with limited upside.
101. Caleb Williams, QB, CHI
Caleb Williams had his struggles, but man, when he was on, he was unstoppable. He rarely turns the ball over, but his sub-60 completion percentage is among the worst in the NFL. You could see how he progressed throughout the season, showing that Ben Johnson is working his magic on him. Even through the struggles, Williams finished as QB7 in points per game. He should be in the top ten quarterbacks off the board in 2026 and possesses QB1 overall upside, even if it’s a slim chance.
102. Tony Pollard, RB, TEN
Tony Pollard had the oddest late-season stretch, rushing for 500 of his 1082-yard season total in Weeks 14-18 to help a couple of people who were brave enough to pick him up and start him in the consolation playoffs. He’s still a non-factor for fantasy, and I’m not drafting him anywhere in 2026.
103. Bhayshul Tuten, RB, JAC
Bhayshul Tuten was causing some horns to be tootin when Tank Bigsby was traded to the Eagles, which I get. He had some splash plays and looked as if he could take over the backfield at times. But at the end of the season, the numbers were not great. Tuten ranked 33rd in yards per carry, 43rd in explosive run rate, and was slightly better but nothing special in missed tackles forced (15th) and yards after contact (14th). Even if Travis Etienne signs elsewhere, I doubt they give the keys to the kingdom to Tuten.
104. Matthew Stafford, QB, LAR
So we can all agree that Matthew Stafford‘s “back issue” in the preseason was a bunch of hogwash, right? What caused so many of us to fade him (including me) hurts that much more since he’s having arguably his best season and is likely to win the MVP. Stafford led the league in touchdowns and passing yards per game, and if he returns for another season, he’s still a QB1 for fantasy purposes. Considering his age, you run the risk of him falling off the cliff, but in Sean McVay‘s offense, I highly doubt that happens.
105. Jordan Love, QB, GB
Jordan Love threw the deep ball at the second-highest rate in the league and completed about the league average of 41%. It didn’t help that he was without one of his top deep threats for most of the season, as Christian Watson and Jayden Reed both missed significant time. But Love had some big games against poor defenses. Love played decently, but with the Packers’ running game and defense, Green Bay didn’t get into many shootouts. Love is a borderline QB1 who’s fine as your starter, but I don’t know if he’ll ever have to pass the ball enough to become an elite option.
106. Oronde Gadsden II, TE, LAC
Oronde Gadsden II is another of the multiple rookie tight ends who emerged for a stretch this season, scoring 12 or more fantasy points in four straight games in the middle of the season. That includes a 29.4-point performance against the Colts, followed by 18.7 versus the Vikes. It’s hard to take much away from the Chargers’ pass catchers in the second half of the season with Herbert battling a broken hand, but Gadsen should be considered a borderline TE1 with upside for 2026.
107. Jauan Jennings, WR, SF
Jauan Jennings wound up being the 49ers’ top receiver by default, which is good timing for him, considering he’s heading into free agency. He’s had back-to-back WR3 seasons, but at age 29 in July, I’m unsure what teams will be willing to pay him a significant amount for a major role. I’ll be taking a wait-and-see approach with him, but his rankings could change drastically this summer depending on where he ends up.
108. Bo Nix, QB, DEN
Bo Nix had himself another top-10 season for fantasy purposes, but was much more volatile than you’d like from your QB1. He did have a couple of four-touchdown games, but threw for one or zero touchdowns in 11 games and was under 250 passing yards in 11 games as well. He suffered a broken ankle on the second-to-last play of the Broncos’ victory over the Bills in the playoffs, but will be a full go before training camp.
109. Alec Pierce, WR, IND
Alec Pierce emerged as the Colts’ top wide receiver and one of the most explosive in the league. He led the league in average depth of target (19.4), yards per target (11.94), and yards per reception (21.34). He’s a free agent, but it sounds like the Colts are going to make a major push to keep him. To emerge from the logjam of pass catchers in Indy, he’s shown he can be a fantasy force even in a crowded receiver room. Pierce is my perfect WR3 target and someone I hope to draft a lot of next season.
Tier 8: The “Terms & Conditions” Tier
The talent is there, but you’ve gotta read the 50 pages of fine print.
110. Jayden Higgins, WR, HOU
Jayden Higgins had a disappointing rookie season, considering the opportunity that presented itself. Nico Collins, Christian Kirk, and Dalton Schultz all missed time, but Higgins was unable to carve out a role, in part due to the deficiencies of the passing offense.
111. J.K. Dobbins, RB, DEN
If J.K. Dobbins could just stay healthy, man, he’s a baller. His season was cut short again by a knee injury, but he was great in Denver. He ranked in the top ten in yards per carry, rushing yards per game, explosive run rate, and missed tackles forced per attempt, and was third overall in explosive run rate. He had a one-year deal with Denver, so he’s free to sign with another team. If Dobbins gets an opportunity to start again, he’ll likely be a bargain-bin borderline RB2 worth taking a shot on.
112. Brenton Strange, TE, JAC
Strange things are happening in Jacksonville, and that’s a good thing. Brenton Strange scored double-digit fantasy points in 50% of his games and is a solid backup option if you fade tight end early in drafts.
113. Jared Goff, QB, DET
Jared Goff didn’t need Ben Johnson after all. Well, at least not to put up fantasy points. Goff brushed off the haters and threw for 34 touchdowns, second only to Matthew Stafford‘s 46. He finished as a QB1 again and enters 2026 as a near must-start, as long as he’s indoors.
114. Kenneth Gainwell, RB, PIT
Kenneth Gainwell caught 73 passes on his way to 1,000 combined yards and an RB2 season, and he enters the offseason as an unrestricted free agent. The running back free-agent market is loaded, but Gainwell should be in a favorable position for fantasy purposes thanks to his pass-catching chops. If he lands in a favorable spot, warm up the saxophone for another FLEX-worthy season for Kenny G.
115. Tyreek Hill, WR, MIA
Given that the Dolphins are in full rebuild mode, Tyreek Hill is likely to be traded or cut this offseason. It’s an uphill battle for Hill to return to fantasy relevance, as the soon-to-be 32-year-old is recovering from a dislocated knee that tore multiple ligaments.
116. Jayden Reed, WR, GB
Jayden Reed missed most of the season due to a series of injuries, including a broken collarbone, but was able to return in Week 14. He’ll be among the Packers’ top pass-catchers in 2026 and should remain a volatile WR3/FLEX for fantasy purposes.
117. David Montgomery, RB, DET
We may have seen the last of Sonic and Knuckles in Detroit. Despite not missing a game for the first time in his career, David Montgomery had career lows in carries (158) and rushing yards (716), clearly taking a backseat in what once was a nearly 50/50 split backfield. A new team could be what’s best for his fantasy value.
118. Chuba Hubbard, RB, CAR
If you chased your kid for 15 or more yards this past year, you had more explosive runs than Chuba Hubbard. His efficiency wasn’t much better either, with 3.81 yards per carry and sub-2 yards after contact per attempt. Rico Dowdle is a free agent and seems unlikely to return to Carolina, but 2024 rookie Jonathan Brooks is trending toward being ready for next season. Hubbard likely has a role, as the Panthers won’t want to give Brooks a heavy workload right away, but don’t depend on Hubbard for anything more than a temporary FLEX.
119. Baker Mayfield, QB, TB
My fears about Baker Mayfield came to fruition, as touchdown regression pushed him right back to fringe fantasy starter status. Mayfield isn’t afraid to sling the rock, and even with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin potentially out of the picture, he still has plenty of talent at the receiver position. 2024 was an aberration, but he’s still a serviceable starter.
120. Tory Horton, WR, SEA
In a cruel twist of fate, rookie speedster Tory Horton had a two-touchdown breakout game in Week 9, just before the Seahawks traded for skill-set clone Rashid Shaheed. Luckily for Horton, Shaheed is an unrestricted free agent at season’s end, so Horton could carve out a deep-threat role if Shaheed leaves Seattle.
121. Xavier Worthy, WR, KC
It was a disappointing sophomore season for Xavier Worthy, who failed to have a single 100-yard receiving game and caught only one touchdown. The most disappointing aspect, however, was his inability to take advantage of the Rashee Rice suspension for any significant output. Worthy could find himself with yet another opportunity to do so, however, with Rice once again in legal trouble and his 2026 status uncertain.
122. Sam Darnold, QB, SEA
Sam Darnold proved his Minnesota resurgence wasn’t a fluke, finishing as QB14 in total points and leading the Seahawks to the #1 seed in the NFC. My gripe with Darnold from a fantasy perspective is that he’s not very good when he faces pressure, which is still true. But the Seahawks’ rebuilt offensive line made major strides and more often than not kept Darnold upright. Darnold faced pressure on just 31.7% of his dropbacks, fourth-lowest among quarterbacks who played at least 10 games. Darnold had some low-volume games that keep him from being a consistent starter, but he’s a borderline QB1 who’s perfect to pair with another quarterback to mix and match based on opponent.
123. Kendre Miller, RB, NO
Kendre Miller finally gets a head coach who doesn’t despise him for no apparent reason, starts to get the majority of touches, and tears his ACL. If Miller is healthy enough to return at the start of next season, he’s worthy of a dart-throw bench stash until you need space for bye-week replacements.
124. Juwan Johnson, TE, NO
Juwan Johnson tied with Tyler Warren for TE10 with 11.1 fantasy points per game. Johnson set career highs in targets, receptions, and receiving yards, and with Taysom Hill out of the picture, should see increased involvement in 2026. He’s a solid back-end TE1 with limited upside.
125. C.J. Stroud, QB, HOU
C.J. Stroud seems like a really good guy, but man, he’s fallen off hard since his rookie season. He missed a few games with a concussion and returned to play shaky football, throwing just eight touchdowns in his final six games. The upside is still there, but he’s more of an upside QB2 than an every-week starter in fantasy.
126. Deebo Samuel Sr., WR, WAS
Deebo Samuel Sr. will spend just one season in Washington, but he did enough to show he can still be a versatile piece for any offense. Samuel scored 17 or more points in five games, but his fantasy value will depend heavily on his landing spot. In the right situation, he can be fantasy viable in 2026.
127. Braelon Allen, RB, NYJ
Braelon Allen entered the season uber-hyped, only to have his season end in Week 4 with an MCL injury. If Breece Hall leaves in free agency and the Jets don’t add a significant piece to the backfield, Allen could be in line to be the Jets’ Week 1 starter. If that’s the case, he’ll offer sneaky upside.
128. Jake Ferguson, TE, DAL
Jake Ferguson had a nice little stretch as the TE1 overall from Weeks 2 to 5, but that ended quickly as soon as CeeDee Lamb returned. He finished as the TE11 in points per game and a solid TE1. If George Pickens doesn’t re-sign with Dallas, Fergie would see the biggest benefit.
129. Tyler Allgeier, RB, ATL
Tyler Allgeier, don’t you dare come back to Atlanta. Pretty please? I want to see what Bijan Robinson can do with a full workload. I also want to see what you can do with a full workload. The free agent-to-be has a nose for the end zone and is sure-handed, with zero career fumbles on 737 touches, but ranks 41st/49th in explosive run rate. If he lands in a favorable situation, Allgeier has RB2 potential.
130. Tyler Shough, QB, NO
For a quarterback known for his deep ball, it’s disheartening to see Tyler Shough have the third-worst deep throw completion percentage at 28.6% (min 25 attempts). As of now, it seems the Saints consider Shough their short-term/long-term answer at quarterback. While he was serviceable for fantasy purposes, temper expectations. He threw multiple touchdown passes in just three of 10 starts, posting a 10:6 touchdown-to-interception ratio, and threw for fewer than 250 yards in 50% of his starts.
131. James Conner, RB, ARI
James Conner has likely played his last snap for Arizona, as he’s a prime offseason cut candidate. Depending on where he lands, Conner could offer some FLEX viability, but his days as a reliable fantasy starter are over.
132. Dalton Schultz, TE, HOU
You know that Japanese takeout place your wife always suggests when you’re trying to figure out where to eat, and every time you complain, “Ugggghhhh. I don’t want that.” But when you inevitably agree and get the food, you realize it’s actually pretty good and have to apologize to your wife for doing it again? That’s Dalton Schultz. Since the 2020 season, he’s finished outside the top 18 just once and has finished as a TE1 four of the six seasons. I’m counting this year because he tied with Hunter Henry and Dalton Kincaid for TE13 in points per game, just .01 behind Juwan Johnson. Close enough for me. Schultz isn’t a guy you’re excited to draft, but if you fade the position, he’ll be a decent option more often than not.
133. Alvin Kamara, RB, NO
Forty-sixth in yards per carry. Thirty-ninth in explosive run rate. Third-lowest yards after the catch per reception among running backs. As much as it hurts to say, Alvin Kamara is toast, methinks. The Saints offered to trade him, and Kamara told the team he’d rather stay in New Orleans. A man of character, but not helpful for his fantasy value. Kamara could have some PPR FLEX value if he’s able to stay healthy, but he’s someone I’ll be avoiding in fantasy for the foreseeable future.
134. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, SF
I’m not ready to give up on Brandon Aiyuk. I have no idea what happened between him and San Francisco or why he didn’t report, but if he suits up in 2026, I am more than willing to take a shot on a 27-year-old who finished in the top 15 in his last two full seasons.
135. Cam Ward, QB, TEN
After struggling for nearly the entire season, Cam Ward began showing signs of life down the stretch. Ward failed to throw multiple touchdowns in a game until Week 13, but did so in his final four starts and began making flash plays like these.
What a drive for Cam Ward. Dropping dimes down the field. How bout that for deep accuracy!
6/7 for 69 yards and a touchdown on the drive, including completions of 25 and 30 yards. pic.twitter.com/tWPBis8rjE
— Justin Graver (@titansfilmroom) December 21, 2025
The Titans cleaned house and hopefully brought in a staff that will build the offense around Ward and give him time to throw. If you subscribe to the “Late Round QB” draft strategy, Ward could be worth a dart throw in 2026. But he’s not someone you’ll want to depend on.
136. Troy Franklin, WR, DEN
Troy Franklin appeared to have stolen the WR1 role from Courtland Sutton during a midseason stretch in which he ranked as WR8 from Weeks 7-11. Sutton reclaimed the role after the Broncos’ bye, but it was still an overall successful season for Franklin, finishing as the PPR WR31 and tied for the fifth most red zone targets in the league. With Sutton creeping up in age, Franklin is a worthwhile target who could still take over as Nix’s top option.
137. Jalen Coker, WR, CAR
Cokeheads, unite! Or something like that. Jalen Coker was in line for a major role in the Panthers’ offense before a surprise injury sent him to the IR right before the season started. He returned in Week 7, but it was in Week 11 that he started cooking a little something. Coker averaged 10.2 points per game and ranked 11th in yards per target. Not necessarily mind-blowing numbers, but solid considering the play of Bryce Young and the limited targets available. He’s a perfect complement to Tetairoa McMillan, and with improved play from Young, he could provide solid WR3 numbers.
138. Theo Johnson, TE, NYG
Theo Johnson‘s “Gronk” comparisons turned out to be somewhat exaggerated. Shocking, I know, but he was a favorite target of Jaxson Dart in the end zone, catching five of Dart’s nine touchdown passes. With the expectation that Todd Monken is in line to take over as offensive coordinator, Johnson could truly breakout in a system known for featuring tight ends.
Tier 9: The “Mustard Seed” Tier
The path to there if you have the faith to hold on.
139. Kyler Murray, QB, ARI
Kyler Murray‘s once sky-high ceiling has fallen all the way to the ground floor. The expectations that come with being the #1 overall pick are a tall order, and Murray just hasn’t been up to it. He appeared to be head and shoulders above the competition in the first two seasons in the league, but he’s thrown 15 or fewer touchdowns in three of the last four seasons, in part due to injury and also due to this year’s “soft benching.” It would be a knee-high narrative to say his career is finished; his peak may just happen to be at waist-level. Nothing official has been said, but the Cardinals are ready to move on this offseason. Murray is likely wearing another uniform in 2026. He’s also short.
140. Tre Harris, WR, LAC
Tre Harris made a couple of flashy catches but was overall a non-factor in his rookie season. The Chargers had a lot of mouths to feed, and an offense like that let Justin Herbert get eaten for lunch, so the subpar rookie season doesn’t come as much of a surprise. Keenan Allen is a free agent, but even if he returns, he turns 63 this offseason and faded down the stretch in 2025. Harris is a nice post-hype sleeper who can likely be had for next to nothing.
141. Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB, NYG
Tyrone Tracy had a late-season fantasy revival after losing the starting job to rookie Cam Skattebo. After a long season cut short by a gruesome ankle injury, Tracy initially shared the workload with Devin Singletary. But down the stretch, Tracy was the more productive of the two, finishing as RB23 in points per game from Week 12 on. There’s no changing of the guard; the Giants’ backfield belongs to Skattebo when healthy. But Tracy showed enough to carve out a role. If Todd Monken is indeed the Giants’ hire at offensive coordinator, that bodes very well for Tracy. Monken uses multiple formations with two backs on the field at the same time, opening up opportunities for Tracy to be fantasy relevant alongside Skattebo in 2026.
142. Dallas Goedert, TE, PHI
Dallas Goedert bounced back bigly in 2025. He finished as TE6 in points per game, but was heavily reliant on a career-high 11 touchdown catches. Goedert is a solid borderline TE1, but his value could skyrocket if the Eagles end up trading A.J. Brown and don’t acquire another pass catcher.
143. Rachaad White, RB, TB
Rachaad White is a free agent, and although he isn’t quite Bucky Irving, he could be a serviceable RB2 in the right offense if given a chance to start or close to it.
144. Travis Kelce, TE, KC
“Say you’ll remember Kelce
facing defense in press,
ready, set, hut, baby
Red jersey and Jordan cleats
Say you’ll draft him again
even if it’s not on your fantasy teams, ah-ah, ha”
Editor’s Note: Jay has been relieved of his duties.
145. Brian Robinson Jr., RB, SF
Brian Robinson Jr. was in line to lead the Commanders’ backfield before a surprise trade to the 49ers just before the season to back up Christian McCaffrey. Shockingly, McCaffrey handled nearly all the work, but Robinson is a free agent. It’s a strong free-agent class, so it’s doubtful Robinson finds work as an unquestioned starter. But if the power back finds himself in a prolific run offense with a decent workload, he can offer some FLEX appeal with RB2 upside.
146. Jalen McMillan, WR, TB
Jalen McMillan missed a significant chunk of the season due to a preseason neck injury, but returned in Week 15 to lead the Bucs in yards per route run, yards per target, and yards per reception. Mike Evans and/or Chris Godwin may not be on the roster this time next season, setting a path for McMillan to receive significant looks and jump into the top 150.
147. Bryce Young, QB, CAR
Bryce Young is one of the oddest fantasy quarterbacks I’ve ever seen play the game. He had nine starts with one or fewer touchdown passes, but added a couple of three-touchdown performances, including one game with over 400 passing yards! The Panthers have exercised his fifth-year option, so he’ll be back in Carolina at least for one more season. But I’m avoiding him in anything outside of Superflex leagues.
148. Jerry Jeudy, WR, CLE
Outside of a random week with a touchdown, Jerry Jeudy was a complete non-factor for fantasy purposes and will continue to be until the Browns get their quarterback situation figured out.
149. Jaylin Noel, WR, HOU
Jaylin Noel had back-to-back 11-fantasy-point games in the middle of the season, popped up for a 14-point Week 17, and was never heard from again.
150. Isaac TeSlaa, WR, DET
Isaac TeSlaa does nothing but catch touchdown passes, with six of his 16 receptions being scores. He’s fun to watch and a great story, but without knowing what type of offense the Lions will run, it’s hard to gauge the fantasy value of a team’s WR3 alongside an elite pass-catching tight end.
151. Isaiah Likely, TE, BAL
We FINALLY got the Kyle Pitts breakout. Can we please get Isaiah Likely next? The pending free agent offers mouthwatering upside thanks to his athleticism and explosiveness, but he hasn’t been able to put it together for more than a few games in Baltimore. If he ends up as the TE1 in a tight-end-friendly offense (maybe following Monken to New York?), he has legit Top-5 potential.
152. Rashid Shaheed, WR, SEA
Rashid Shaheed hasn’t made much of a fantasy impact outside of special teams since heading to Seattle from New Orleans, but that’s not a surprise, as most receivers who change teams midseason don’t. Shaheed is set to become a free agent and likely will have plenty of suitors for his services as an electric kick returner and deep threat. His fantasy value depends on whether the team he signs with has wide receiver depth, specifically a downfield weapon. (Note: Imagine Shaheed in Buffalo?!!?)
153. J.J. McCarthy, QB, MIN
The best thing that J.J. McCarthy did for us this season was give us the “Nine” meme.
McCarthy can be summed up in one stat: he led the NFL in off-target percentage. Literally, over 20% of his pass attempts were off target. The dude is responsible for making Justin Jefferson a WR3. There were a couple of late-season starts where McCarthy looked serviceable, but it remains to be seen whether he’ll be the starter for Minnesota next season. I expect the Vikings to at least bring in a capable veteran backup.
154. Mason Taylor, TE, NYJ
Mason Taylor wasn’t able to get much going in his rookie season, which isn’t surprising, given the Flaming Hindenburg of Sadness they call the New York Jets offense. Taylor has the talent and the pedigree to become a fantasy weapon, but the Jets have to get their mess under center figured out before you can consider drafting him.
155. Matthew Golden, WR, GB
Matthew Golden is ranked here simply on his first-round pedigree and upside on a team that loves to throw the deep ball.
156. Tank Bigsby, RB, PHI
He’s so freaking good, man. I hope he just gets a chance.
157. Pat Bryant, WR, DEN
Pat Bryant only scored double-digit fantasy points twice in his rookie season, which isn’t a surprise given the crowded receiver room and Bo Nix’s low passing totals. Bryant has the skill set to become a fantasy asset, but he would need multiple injuries ahead of him to get the target share needed.
158. Malik Willis, QB, GB
An unrestricted free agent, Malik Willis nearly led the Packers to an overtime victory over Chicago in relief of an injured Jordan Love and totaled 300 yards and three touchdowns in a spot start against the Ravens. Willis played himself into an opportunity to compete for a starting job if he wants it this offseason.
159. Jonathon Brooks, RB, CAR
Out of sight, out of mind. People forget too easily how highly touted Jonathan Brooks was coming out of Texas. Rico Dowdle is a free agent who likely won’t return, and Chuba Hubbard is the guy I said had literally zero explosive runs. Brooks is one of my favorite sleepers for 2026.
160. Kimani Vidal, RB, LAC
Kimani Vidal surprised just about everyone, even his mom, with how well he played in place of Omarion Hampton. He averaged 13.5 points per game with Hampton out, though the metrics weren’t much to write home about (Vidal had the third-highest stuff rate, for example). Vidal is an Exclusive Rights Free Agent, meaning the Chargers can sign him to a minimal deal to bring him back. I expect Vidal back with the Chargers in a backup role, with a full offseason for Hampton to get healthy. But Vidal proved he can put up solid numbers if given the workload.
Tier 10: The “Mandela Effect” Tier
You knew they were good, but it’s like they never existed.
161. Devin Neal, RB, NO
A hamstring injury cut Devin Neal’s season short just as he was handed the reins to the backfield. He didn’t show much, averaging less than 4 yards per carry in two starts, but it’s unfair to judge on such a small sample size. The Saints’ backfield is in flux, and Neal could have an opportunity to earn significant touches.
162. Houston Texans DST
I’m generally not a fan of ranking a defense this high, but the Texans were on another level this season. Top ten in sacks, top five in interceptions, fewest yards per game allowed, second-fewest points per game allowed, and I could keep going. They were one of the few set-it-and-forget-it DSTs and should remain so in 2026.
163. Aaron Jones Sr., RB, MIN
Aaron Jones Sr. had the league’s worst 1.67 yards after contact and the third-lowest missed tackles forced. He’ll offer some PPR FLEX viability, but another year older is bringing him close to the end of his fantasy rosterability. Is rosterability a word?
164. Darius Slayton, WR, NYG
Darius Slayton has had just one season with a yards per catch under 14.5, and could become a useful boom-or-bust FLEX option if he lands in the right situation.
165. Adonai Mitchell, WR, NYJ
AD Meh-tchell… sorry… Mitchell was traded to the Jets for Sauce Gardner and would wind up with two games over 17 fantasy points, but was otherwise, well, meh. Granted, his competition for targets was John Metchie III and Isaiah Williams, and the Jets were constantly playing from behind, but Mitchell made some nice plays. He’s a lottery ticket you’ll only want to buy if the Jets make a splash at quarterback.
166. Seattle Seahawks DST
Fewest points allowed per game. Tied for most special teams touchdowns. Top 10 in takeaways and sacks. Yeah, the Seahawks are pretty much everything you could ask for in a fantasy defense.
167. Romeo Doubs, WR, GB
Romeo Doubs is the most Khalil Shakir receiver that ever James Jonesed. Doubs had some moments early in the season, but only scored over 10 points three times after Week 8. He’s a safe floor, low ceiling player who will get two or three games over 15 points a season.
168. Sean Tucker, RB, TB
Rachaad White isn’t expected back with the Bucs in 2026, giving Sean Tucker a clear path to the backup role. Tucker became the goal-line specialist when all three Bucs backs were healthy and showed his explosiveness against Buffalo in Week 11, totaling 106 yards on 19 carries and three total touchdowns. If White leaves and the Bucs don’t add a significant piece, Tucker will be in the conversation for the top handcuff in 2026.
169. Ryan Flournoy, WR, DAL
Ryan Flournoy showed flashes when given the opportunity. He could be in line for a larger role if George Pickens leaves in free agency.
170. Kyle Williams, WR, NE
The explosive rookie made only a few plays in his first season, but he could still develop into a deep threat for MVP candidate Drake Maye.
171. Isiah Pacheco, RB, KC
Isiah Pacheco is fun to watch run the football. He looks like a toddler running away from his parents because it’s bedtime. Sadly for Pacheco, his fantasy value has officially gone night-night. Among running backs with at least 100 rushing attempts, Pacheco had the second-lowest explosive run rate and was one of two players under 4%. If this is the end, I’ll never forget you, Isiah Pacheco. You’ve ruined me for trying to spell Isaiah for the rest of my life.
172. Mark Andrews, TE, BAL
If Isaiah Likely leaves via free agency, an increase in targets for Mark Andrews could help offset the decline in his skills.
173. Tre Tucker, WR, LV
This guy put up a 40-burger in Week 3, which made the Raiders comfortable enough to trade Jakobi Meyers. He’s at best a complementary receiver who could offer some FLEX value with the soon-to-be Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
174. T.J. Hockenson, TE, MIN
Not quite sure what happened to T.J. Hockenson, but with three top-five fantasy finishes in his first five seasons, he’s worth drafting late and seeing if he can get his mojo back. He could find himself in a new uniform next season, as his contract has no guaranteed money in 2026.
175. Kayshon Boutte, WR, NE
An inconsistent deep threat who is still just 23 years old. Worth stashing, but don’t overdraft.
176. Isaiah Davis, RB, NYJ
If Breece Hall moves on in free agency, Isaiah Davis could find himself competing for the Jets’ backup running back job. Davis has impressed in limited work, averaging 5.6 yards per carry on 73 attempts.
177. Denver Broncos DST
Led the league in sacks in back-to-back years, Jack (sorry for that.) One of the top defenses of the past few seasons, and that won’t change in 2026.
178. Michael Penix Jr., QB, ATL
Michael Penix Jr. has a long road to recovery ahead, but I really like the Kevin Stefanski hire for his development if he can get back on the field healthy.
179. Chimere Dike, WR, TEN
Chimere Dike sprinkled in a couple of double-digit fantasy performances in his rookie season, but his future in Tennessee is on special teams. The Titans likely draft and/or sign some weapons for Cam Ward this offseason, making Dike just a dart throw. However, after leading the league in all-purpose yards in 2025, if your league counts return yards in its scoring, bump Dike up about 150 spots.
180. Hunter Henry, TE, NE
President of tHe gLoB: a Mid-Tier Stagnation Phenomenon in fantasy football roster construction, this refers to the large sample size of tight ends who operate within a predictable yet sub-optimal range of outcomes. This demographic is defined by a reliance on accumulation rather than explosiveness, requiring a specific scoring anomaly to render them statistically distinguishable from the position’s median baseline.
181. Dylan Sampson, RB, CLE
The reincarnation of Duke Johnson with a ceiling of a bye week fill-in FLEX.
182. Tank Dell, WR, HOU
It’s a crowded receiver room in Houston, but I can’t wait to see Tank Dell back on the field. He’s a long shot for any sort of fantasy relevance given the gruesome injury, but he was one of the most explosive receivers in the league before it.
183. Keon Coleman, WR, BUF
Xavier Worthy hasn’t been anything special, but Keon Coleman has made the Bills’ decision to trade up to draft him over Worthy look about as bad as drafting JaMarcus Russell at 1.01. Coleman has upside if he can ever put it all together, but he’s not a guarantee to even be on the Bills come September.
184. Joe Mixon, RB, HOU
Technically, Joe Mixon is signed through this season, but the Texans have an out where they can cut him this offseason for a minimal cap hit. A season lost to injury that was oddly shrouded in secrecy, Mixon is a total wildcard at this point.
185. Dont’e Thornton Jr., WR, LV
Dont’e Thornton Jr. was virtually unused in his rookie season but was viewed as a long-term prospect when initially drafted. The Raiders are thin on pass-catching weapons outside of Brock Bowers, so Thornton could have a chance to carve out a role in 2026.
186. Emanuel Wilson, RB, GB
Emanuel Wilson went off in a spot start against the Vikings in Week 12, but tied Woody Marks and Chuba Hubbard for the lowest missed tackles forced per attempt.
187. Jerome Ford, RB, CLE
A free agent plodder who could have FLEX value if he winds up in a favorable situation. Ford had a 5.4 yards per carry on 104 attempts in 2024.
188. Kaleb Johnson, RB, PIT
Kaleb Johnson couldn’t get on the field with the coaching staff that drafted him. What makes you think he’ll get a chance with a completely new staff?
189. Los Angeles Rams DST
Give me a defense that ranks top five in forced turnovers and top ten in sacks.
190. Marvin Mims Jr., WR, DEN
Marvin Mims Jr. gets hyped up by Sean Payton every year, has a couple of 20+ point fantasy performances, then hibernates again until August. Rinse and repeat for 2026.
191. Terrance Ferguson, TE, LAR
Remember the name Terrance Ferguson at the end of the 2026 drafts. The rookie tight end saw only 25 targets, but among the 54 tight ends who saw at least that many, Ferguson ranked first with 21 yards per reception and ninth with 9.24 yards per target.
192. LeQuint Allen Jr., RB, JAC
With Travis Etienne heading into free agency, LeQuint Allen Jr. might have the chance to compete for the backup running back position.
193. Elic Ayomanor, WR, TEN
Ditto what I said about Dike, just skip over the special teams part.
194. Mack Hollins, WR, NE
I had no clue Mack Hollins was 32 years old.
195. Keaton Mitchell, RB, BAL
Keaton Mitchell seemed to get back on track in 2025, showing his explosiveness to the tune of 5.78 yards per carry. He’s a restricted free agent, but if he finds himself on another team with some guaranteed touches, he has sneaky RB2 upside.
196. Tyjae Spears, RB, TEN
Tyjae Spears couldn’t beat out Tony Pollard for the starting job, and his yards per carry have been under four in each of the past two seasons.
197. Xavier Legette, WR, CAR
The tweet pretty much says it all.
WR Xavier Legette rode his horse to today’s playoff game vs the #Rams. #Panthers
All this to catch 1 pass for 6 yards. pic.twitter.com/8O3nbixr3d
— FirstDownMedia (@FirstDownMediaa) January 10, 2026
198. Isaiah Bond, WR, CLE
Isaiah Bond flashed some explosiveness, averaging 18.78 yards per catch in his rookie season. However, all Browns receivers are too unpredictable to trust in fantasy until they can get consistent quarterback play.
199. James Bond, QB, London Silly Nannies
Hey, you. Yeah, you. Thank you for reading this far!
200. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, RB, WAS
Jacory Croskey-Merritt had the entire fantasy community all hot and bothered this preseason and after Week 1 against the Giants, but he was, and I quote, “Not great, Bob.” JCM had three good games after Week 1: Week 5 against the Chargers, with two counter runs, terrible defense, and wide-open spaces. The other two were against the Giants and Cowboys, two of the worst run defenses in the entire league. I’m sorry, guys, but Bill ain’t it.