Fantasy Football Player Notes
Week 1 Rankings
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1.
Jahmyr Gibbs
RB - DET (vs . NO)
*Channels his inner Bruce Buffer* "Coming in at 5'9", 202 lbs, and the Undisputed 1.01 of the 2026 offseason, Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs!" After sitting atop all ADP charts, we finally get to see Jahmyr Gibbs take the field. Coming off an RB4 finish in 2025, we now get to see what Jahmyr Gibbs can do as the sole lead back on this team. With David Montgomery being traded to the Texans early this offseason, his 158 attempts, 716 yards, and eight rushing touchdowns are up for grabs. With the Lions primed to be an offensive powerhouse with a bad defense, the sky is the limit for Gibbs. My name is Ellis, and I will be writing these player outlooks each week for 2026. Pull up a chair, and sit back and watch Gibbs potentially have a fantasy season for the ages in 2026.
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2.
Bijan Robinson
RB - ATL (at PIT)
Coming in as the clear number two RB this offseason, Bijan Robinson is primed for another huge season. Last year, Robinson had 2298 total yards. To put that in perspective, Chris Johnson holds the NFL record at 2509 yards. Considering he did this on a team that averaged the 9th-lowest points per game, that is outstanding. Thankfully, we saw him succeed last year as the offense is again looking less than ideal. With Tua Tagovailoa under center, there is a good chance we see Robinson beat his previous career record of 79 receptions and 820 receiving yards. Because of this, he remains one of the best picks in fantasy and could be used as a safety blanket against a formidable Steelers front in Week 1.
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3.
Jonathan Taylor
RB - IND (vs . BAL)
Jonathan Taylor's 2025 season and Harvey Dent have earned the same nickname. It really was a two-faced season for the elite RB. After scoring 17 touchdowns in the first 10 games, he only scored three over the last seven games. This corresponds perfectly with when Daniel Jones tore his Achilles last year. With Jones apparently looking great heading into the season, the Colts are hoping they can recapture their early-season magic from 2025. Unfortunately, they open their season against a revitalized Ravens team. Even though the Ravens' defense isn't what it used to be, it's been a good test to open the season.
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4.
Christian McCaffrey
RB - SF (at LAR)
Last season's RB1 has had a cloud over him this entire offseason. Despite remaining one of the best fantasy backs in history, everyone is wondering if a 30-year-old back can hold up after having 413 touches last season. Whether you have concerns or are blindly hopping on the train, Week 1 should see a heavy dose of CMC. Opening the season in Australia against the Super Bowl favourite Rams, CMC will be a key outlet for Brock Purdy as he faces Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett. Every week, fantasy managers will be knocking on wood for CMC to stay healthy. As long as he does, he'll be ranked as a top fantasy player regardless of matchup.
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5.
Saquon Barkley
RB - PHI (vs . WAS)
If you're a Barkley manager, you have been patiently waiting for the star RB to take the field and help you forget an incredibly disappointing 2025 campaign. After lighting the league on fire in 2024, Barkley followed up his historic season with an RB14 finish and fewer than 10 touchdowns. The Eagles are primed for a bounce-back season and have made some substantial changes. Last year, Kevin Patulo was one of the worst offensive coordinators in the league. Thankfully, Sean Mannion is taking over and giving the offense hope despite trading away A.J. Brown. With Barkley turning 30 this season, there are some age concerns and potential red flags with his dip in efficiency metrics last season. However, opening the season against their division rival Commanders is a perfect time for the star back to prove he hasn't lost a step and is ready for another incredible season.
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6.
Derrick Henry
RB - BAL (at IND)
Death, taxes, Ochocinco is open, and Derrick Henry is once again a top fantasy player; those are life's four constants. Entering his 11th season in the league, Henry projects to be the heart of a refurbished Ravens team. After 18 seasons, John Harbaugh left the team and joined the Giants. It'll be weird for many fans to not see him on the sideline; however, there is plenty of excitement for new Offensive Coordinator Declan Doyle. It's been a fool's errand to predict any sort of decline for Derrick Henry over the last few years. As a result, get ready for another dominant season as they kick off the year against the Colts. Even though the Colts have a strong defense, Henry has dominated them going back to his days as a Titan. Across his 16 career games against the Colts, he has accumulated 287 carries, 1,432 rushing yards, and nine touchdowns.
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7.
De'Von Achane
RB - MIA (at LV)
After months of predicting the Dolphins to be one of the worst teams in the league, they finally get a chance to prove everyone wrong in what should be a very winnable matchup. The Raiders also have a lot of questions that fantasy managers want answered; however, one question we already know the answer to is that they do not have a great defense. As a result, De'Von Achane and Malik Willis could shock the league with an explosive performance. We may not know if this offense will be able to support Achane as a top-5 RB this season, but he can definitely reach that mark in matchups such as this. My name is Ellis, and I will be writing the 2026 player outlooks. Personally, Achane is one of the players I'm most interested in seeing what happens in Week1.
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8.
Omarion Hampton
RB - LAC (vs . ARI)
For what seems to be the fifth year in a row, we are talking about the Chargers as a "dark horse" Super Bowl pick. Even with plenty to get excited about, it is hard not to feel like we've already seen how this plays out. Typically, their downfall starts with some key injuries. You can check that box with Center Tyler Biadasz tearing his ACL in training camp. Thankfully, they have Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater returning after missing most of last season. Add in Mike McDaniel coming in as the Offensive Coordinator, and there is still plenty of hope for 2026 to be the year for the Chargers. They also have Omarion Hampton back from injury last season and primed for a breakout season. As long as their offensive line holds up, Hampton will be able to take advantage of a McDaniels scheme that has been very lucrative for fantasy points. Plus, starting the season against the Cardinals is a perfect opportunity for this team to show that they are more than just offseason hype this year.
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9.
Ja'Marr Chase
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
Ja'Marr Chase could have a record-breaking season in 2026. I know we often say this about elite players each year; however, this year the Bengals could support the first 2,000-yard NFL receiver. I understand this is a lofty goal, but there is no denying what a healthy Joe Burrow and Chase can do. Sitting as the top WR off the board all offseason, the Bengals open their year against the Buccaneers. This is a very intriguing matchup as both offenses have impressive firepower and both defenses are looking to take a step forward from last season. The Bengals are well aware of their history of starting seasons slow. As a result, I wouldn't be surprised if Chase takes it on himself to ensure that doesn't happen again in 2026.
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10.
James Cook III
RB - BUF (at HOU)
Will James Cook be able to follow up his 1,820 yards and 14 touchdown 2025 season? Usually, that is an incredibly high bar to reach. However, the situation has remained perfect for Cook. With Josh Allen at QB, we already know this will be one of the best offenses in the league despite new Head Coach Joe Brady. This offseason, the coaching staff has been very vocal about getting Cook more involved in the receiving game. Since he only had 40 targets and under 300 receiving yards last year, increasing his receiving production could take his fantasy production to new heights. However, he opens the season against the Texans, who have arguably the best defense in the league. You have to play him regardless of matchup, but don't be discouraged if he struggles this week.
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11.
Chase Brown
RB - CIN (vs . TB)
Chase Brown has arguably the best situation of any RB this season. With only Samaje Perine and Tahj Brooks competing with him for touches, Brown is once again a clear workhorse RB on one of the league's most potent offenses. Coming off back to back top 12 RB finishes, Chase Brown is primed to make it three consecutive RB1 finishes in 2026. He opens the season against the Buccaneers who bolster an underrated defensive front. It may be tough sledding on the ground for Brown, however, his pass catching provides a very safe fantasy floor. My name is Ellis and I am writing the 2026 player outlooks for FantasyPros. I believe this Bengals offense could be the best in the league in 2026, and Chase Brown should be a key part of it.
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12.
Puka Nacua
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
To say that Puka Nacua's offseason was normal would be a blatant lie. The elite receiver has been in and out of the headlines all offseason for all the wrong reasons. From allegedly biting an individual and potentially facing a suspension this season to having a short stint in a rehabilitation facility, it's been an eventful last few months. To further add to the weirdness, the Rams open their season in Australia. That said, as the Rams have run away as the Super Bowl favourites heading into 2026, the 49ers have seemingly done the opposite. This should be a great divisional game for the first Thursday Night Football game of the season. With Davante Adams, Puka Nacua, and Mike Evans all taking the field, we could see some fireworks down under this week.
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13.
Javonte Williams
RB - DAL (at NYG)
Coming off a season that revitalized his career, Javonte Williams is once again primed for a successful fantasy season. As the lead back on one of the league's best defenses, there will be plenty of opportunity for Williams to carry last year's momentum into 2026. The main concern for regression was his lack of pass-catching ability and the emergence of Jaydon Blue. Considering the team has now cut Blue, it is all-systems for Williams. Plus, the Cowboys have bolstered their defense, potentially setting up better games cripts for the run game. The Cowboys open the season against the Giants, who traded away elite run stopper Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals. Although they have an abundance of talent on their defense, they are very young and may take some time for play to reach the same level as their talent. As a result, Williams is running into this defense at the perfect time and should be considered a rock-solid RB1 to open the season.
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14.
Amon-Ra St. Brown
WR - DET (vs . NO)
After three straight WR4 seasons for fantasy, ARSB is once again primed to have another great season. In fact, you could argue this may be his best season as the Lions' defense is looking like one of the worst units in the league. As a result, we can expect many shootouts for Jared Goff and company in 2026. With ARSB and Jahmyr Gibbs at the heart of this offence, there should be plenty of volume to support two elite fantasy players each week. The Lions start their season against the Saints. The Saints are very intriguing this year and have one of the better defensive units in the league. This will be a very interesting test for both teams, and a win would be a huge tone setter for each franchise. Even if the Saints' defense is great, keep ARSB near the top of your Week 1 fantasy ranks.
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15.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba
WR - SEA (vs . NE)
It has been impossible to talk about Jaxon Smith-Njigba this offseason without mentioning the work "regression." That's because when you are coming off of a season like JSN's 2025 campaign, there is little room for improvement. Leading the league in receiving yards with nearly 1,800 and carrying their offense to a Super Bowl Championship is hard to replicate. It's especially hard to replicate after the team lost their offensive coordinator and let their top RB walk in free agency. They are also opening their season with a Super Bowl rematch against a Patriots team that hasn't forgotten their abysmal performance from last year. This should be a great NFL game; however, fantasy points may be hard to come by.
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16.
Kyren Williams
RB - LAR (vs . SF)
Last year, Kyren Williams was the RB10 in fantasy points per game after seasons as the RB10 and RB2 in fantasy points per game. Williams had to deal with more work for Blake Corum last year, but he still retained his lead role overall and in the red zone. In Weeks 7-18, Williams still saw 63% of the red zone rushing attempts while Corum helped him with the heavy lifting on early downs in between the 20s. With the workload lightened a tad, Williams did post improved rushing efficiency metrics, ranking 21st in explosive run rate, 25th in missed tackle rate, and 18th in yards after contact per attempt. Williams should enjoy a wonderful Week 1 against the 49ers. Last year, San Francisco allowed the highest rushing success rate, the tenth-most yards before contact per attempt, and had the seventh-lowest hit rate at or behind the line of scrimmage.
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17.
Kenneth Walker III
RB - KC (vs . DEN)
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18.
D'Andre Swift
RB - CHI (at CAR)
D'Andre Swift arguably had a career year last season for the Bears as the RB16 in fantasy points per game. He finished with 257 touches and 1,386 total yards while splitting work with Kyle Monangai. Monangai's presence didn't hurt Swift a ton, as he was the RB20 in fantasy points per game after Monangai's emergence in Week 9. During Weeks 10-18, Swift remained the preferred passing down back for Chicago with a 43% route share (Monangai 28.8%), but he split up the red zone work with Monangai, with 18 red zone rushing attempts to Monangai's 19. Last year, Swift's per-touch efficiency bounced back as he ranked 13th in explosive run rate, 11th in rushing success rate, and 20th in missed tackle rate. Swift should have a nice Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Carolina allowed the 13th-most yards before contact per attempt, the ninth-highest missed tackle rate, and the seventh-most EPA per rush.
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19.
Ashton Jeanty
RB - LV (vs . MIA)
Ashton Jeanty is dealing with a sprained ankle. Right now, I'm projecting him to play in Week 1, but it's a situation we'll have to monitor this week. Even if Jeanty is active, he could see a reduction in his snaps with Mike Washington Jr. proving in the preseason to be a capable running mate for Jeanty this season. Ashton Jeanty was seen as a disappointment for fantasy managers exiting his rookie season. It wasn't a failure, but you can make the argument that, because of his talent and the hype, it didn't live up to lofty expectations. Jeanty was the RB15 in fantasy points per game, finishing with 321 touches and 1,321 total yards. He ranked fifth in snap share, first in opportunity share, seventh in weighted opportunities, and 15th in red zone touches. Among 49 qualifying backs, Jeanty ranked 16th in missed tackle rate and 17th in yards after contact per attempt. The ecosystem surrounding Jeanty stunk. The Raiders were 31st in red zone scoring attempts per game and 30th in yards per play. Among those 49 qualifying backs previously, Jeanty had the second-fewest yards before contact per attempt (1.28), and 65% of his rushing yards came after first contact. With Klint Kubiak in town and (hopefully) improved blocking up front, Jeanty could have a nice Week 1. Last year, the Dolphins allowed the fifth-highest explosive run rate, the most yards after contact per attempt, and the sixth-highest missed tackle rate. Even with the best rose colored glasses, this still has to be viewed as an above-average matchup for the Raiders' ground game.
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20.
Travis Etienne Jr.
RB - NO (at DET)
Travis Etienne excelled last year as the Jags' RB1 with an RB13 finish in fantasy points per game. He was 11th in snap share, 13th in opportunity share, tenth in weighted opportunities, and fifth in red zone touches. Etienne soaked up 296 touches, producing 1,399 total yards. He's set to see a similar workload in 2026 with the Saints. Etienne was disappointing on a per-touch basis, ranking 37th in explosive run rate, 31st in missed tackle rate, and 34th in yards after contact per attempt. Those metrics are worrisome, but Etienne should see enough volume that it won't matter with Alvin Kamara already injured to begin the season. Etienne could begin his Saints career with a nice game in Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Detroit allowed the ninth-highest explosive run rate, the ninth-most yards before contact per attempt, and the eighth-most EPA per rush.
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21.
Breece Hall
RB - NYJ (at TEN)
Breece Hall had a tough time last year despite finishing as the RB20 in fantasy points per game. New York's quarterback play was dreadful, and the offense overall was a mess, which led to them ranking 29th in points per game and red zone scoring opportunities per game. The good news is that despite those factors, he ran behind an offensive line that ranked seventh in adjusted yards before contact per attempt. New York's offensive line remains largely intact while adding Dylan Parham to the mix to replace the often-injured and departed Alijah Vera-Tucker, so they could easily be a top-shelf unit in 2026. This is great news for a back that was also fourth in explosive run rate and tenth in missed tackle rate last year. The Titans added to their defensive unit this offseason with John Franklin-Myers, Keldric Faulk, and Jermaine Johnson. I expect them to again be a solid run defense that could take a step forward and be a top-12 unit. Last year, Tennessee allowed the 13th-lowest rushing success rate and missed tackle rate while ranking 15th in explosive run rate. This feels like a battle of the trenches in Week 1, and I like the Jets' offensive line to come out on top, with Hall having a solid day.
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22.
CeeDee Lamb
WR - DAL (at NYG)
Is CeeDee Lamb still the top receiver on his own team? Considering he starts the season ranked as the fifth-best fantasy receiver, you would think the answer is obvious. However, if you only looked at camp reports, you may think George Pickens has usurped him as the top target. Whatever you conclude, this offense is on the verge of going nuclear in 2026. With an improved defense and second season with Brian Schottenheimer leading the charge, it could be a big season. They open the season against the Giants who have plenty of young talent on the defensive side of the ball. That said, their secondary will have its hands full with Lamb and Pickens. I'd expect these two to be closer in production than the rankings currently indicate, but Lamb remains a top fantasy receiver each week.
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23.
Bucky Irving
RB - TB (at CIN)
Bucky Irving has dealt with a number of injuries in his short career with a foot sprain and a shoulder/ AC joint sprain last year. Rewinding to 2024, he also dealt with hip, back, toe, and hamstring issues. When he was on the field last year, he averaged 20.3 touches and 86.5 total yards as the RB17 in fantasy points per game. His efficiency suffered massively from the injuries last year after being a wondrous per-touch monster in 2024. Last year, among 49 qualifying backs, he was 43rd in explosive run rate, 35th in missed tackle rate, and 46th in yards after contact per attempt. Those dips are explainable, but they are still concerning for a back that is on the smaller side and has been banged up quite often over the last two seasons. Yes, Rachaad White is gone, but Irving will still have to contend with Kenneth Gainwell in what I'm projecting to be a split backfield. It's tough projecting this matchup with all of the moves the Cincy made this offseason to overhaul their defensive line with the additions of Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, Boye Mafe, and Cashius Howell. I'm treating it as a neutral matchup with the ability to be a positive one for Irving. Last year, Cincy allowed the seventh-highest explosive run rate and rushing success rate and the fourth-most yards before contact per attempt to backs.
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24.
David Montgomery
RB - HOU (vs . BUF)
I'm not buying the offseason narratives that the Texans backfield will be a 50/50 split. David Montgomery will likely operate as the team's workhorse. Last year, he was phased out of the Lions' offensive plans as the season moved along, which led to his RB32 finish in fantasy points per game. In Weeks 12-18, he was the RB43 in fantasy points per game with a 32.1% snap rate, 8.2 touches per game, and only 42.8 total yards per game. Montgomery still has the juice to produce as a workhorse this season. Last season, he ranked 30th in missed tackle rate, but he was 12th in yards after contact per attempt. His receiving chops are also still alive and well, as he was also 22nd in yards per route run and 12th in first downs per route run. Last season, Montgomery bested Marks in explosive run rate, missed tackle rate, rushing success rate, yards after contact per attempt, and yards per route run. Legit, every per-touch metric that I care about. Montgomery is the superior back, even at this stage of his career. Montgomery should have a successful Week 1 against a run defense that last season (in Weeks 12-18) allowed the 13th-highest rushing success rate, the 14th-highest yards before contact per attempt, and had the 11th-lowest stuff rate.
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25.
Rhamondre Stevenson
RB - NE (at SEA)
Rhamondre Stevenson was the Pats' lead back last year as the RB21 in fantasy points per game, and I don't see that changing in 2026. Stevenson was amazing on a per-touch basis, and he bested TreVeyon Henderson in EVERY discernible metric that I care about. Last year, Stevenson was fifth in explosive run rate, missed tackle rate, and yards after contact per attempt (per Fantasy Points Data). Stevenson also surpassed Henderson in yards per route run (1.41 vs. 0.98) and pass protection. Unless Stevenson falls off in 2026, he should remain the lead back for New England after playing at least 57% of the snaps in nine of his 14 games played in 2025. Stevenson should have a productive day, but it won't be easy sledding in the rushing department. Last year, Seattle allowed the lowest explosive run rate, the fifth-lowest rushing success rate, and had the fifth-highest stuff rate. Stevenson will have to get it done as a receiver, which he should be able to. Last year, among 52 qualifying backs, Stevenson ranked 15th in yards per route run and first in yards per target. Seattle allowed backs to "run through the air" all season, giving up the eighth-most receiving fantasy points per game, the ninth-most receiving yards, and the most receptions to the position.
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26.
Cam Skattebo
RB - NYG (vs . DAL)
I'm expecting Cam Skattebo to retain his lead back role to open the 2026 season, but we'll have to see if that is a bellcow role or just the leader of a committee backfield. The human battering ram known as Cam Skattebo made waves in his rookie season before being sidelined by a horrible ankle/fibula fracture that also ruptured his deltoid ligament in Week 8 of last season. In Weeks 2-7 as the Giants' workhorse, Skattebo averaged 19.5 touches and 96.3 total yards as the RB8 in fantasy points per game. Last season, he was stellar with his touches, ranking fourth in missed tackle rate and yards after contact per attempt, 11th in target per route run rate, eighth in yards per route run, and second in first downs per route run. Skattebo will face an uphill climb in Week 1 against a Dallas run defense that found its footing after the acquisition of Quinnen Williams last season. In Weeks 11-18 last year, Dallas allowed the fifth-lowest rushing success rate, the seventh-fewest yards after contact per attempt, and had the fourth-best stuff rate.
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27.
Justin Jefferson
WR - MIN (vs . GB)
We can talk about how Justin Jefferson remains one of the best receivers in the league. However, for fantasy, our focus is on the quarterback. Will Kyler Murray be able to support elite fantasy production for his top target? Although we have seen this before with DeAndre Hopkins, it has been a long time since. The Vikings have set themselves up to lean on their defense and play complimentary football. This may limit the ceiling of Jefferson compared to the high flying offenses linked to Ja'Marr Chase and ARSB. That said, Jefferson can turn mediocre QB play and usage into a top five fantasy season. With their season opener against the Packers, this is a defense that can be exploited. Let's see what Murray can do and if he can get Jefferson back to pre-2025 levels of production.
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28.
Nico Collins
WR - HOU (vs . BUF)
Considering how terrible the Texans' offense were over their last few games of 2025, it's surprising that they are viewed as a sneaky contending team. That said, their defense was truly exceptional and could carry any league-average offence on a playoff run. Therefore, we are all hoping that C.J. Stroud can at least be functional in 2026. If he is, then Nico Collins is set up for a massive season. As one of the best outside receivers in the league and a clear top target on his team, Collins' target share should be incredibly safe each week. Despite their struggles last season, Collins was still the WR9 on the team. Starting their season against the Bills offense is a great test for this defense and will likely force Stroud and company to put points on the board. This sets the table for Collins to start the season with a bang.
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29.
Chris Olave
WR - NO (at DET)
Chris Olave finally had the season we had been hoping for in 2025. Finishing the season as the WR6, the veteran WR silenced all the injury noise from his first few seasons. In the end, the Saints rewarded him with a four-year, $ 124 million contract extension. They also drafted Jordan Tyson in the first round, who complements Olave's skill set perfectly. Unfortunately, we won't see Tyson until later in the year, opening the door for Chris Olave to have a dominant target share. The Saints offense has a juicy matchup to open the season, as they face the Lions and their abysmal secondary. Olave is a firm WR1 this season and could be considered a top-5 play this week.
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30.
George Pickens
WR - DAL (at NYG)
If you listened to the reports out of Cowboys camp, you might think that George Pickens has supplanted CeeDee Lamb as the top target. It was frequently reported that the young WR was outproducing Lamb in practice and was becoming Dak Prescott's go-to target. Whether you choose to believe that there has been a change in top target or not, both these receivers are primed for massive seasons. The Cowboys had a great offseason, focusing on bolstering their defense and maintaining their collection of offensive weapons. Last season, Pickens finished as the WR5 of the season and showed that he can operate as a true number one receiver. He opens the season against the Giants, who bolster a lot of young talent on their defense. These divisional games sometimes lead to disappointing fantasy numbers. However, it's hard to bet against Dak and company. Expect a great season for Pickens and don't be discouraged if he doesn't have a huge fantasy day in Week 1.
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31.
Quinshon Judkins
RB - CLE (at JAC)
Quinshon Judkins had off-the-field and contract issues last year, entering his rookie season, which caused him to miss training camp and not start the season until Week 2. Once he was on the field, he was Cleveland's workhorse back until suffering an ankle and fibula fracture in Week 16. In Weeks 2-15, he was the RB26 in fantasy points per game (RB22 in expected fantasy points per game), averaging 18.7 touches and 72.8 total yards. I wasn't high on Judkins as a prospect, as his per-touch efficiency in college wasn't amazing. He didn't debunk that trend in his rookie season, either. Among 49 qualifying backs, he ranked 40th in explosive run rate, 33rd in missed tackle rate, and 26th in yards after contact per attempt. In his defense, Judkins' offensive line didn't do him any favors last season. Among those 49 backs, Judkins had the fifth-highest mark of yards after first contact, with 62.2% of his rushing yards coming after first contact, and he had the fourth-fewest yards before contact per attempt, with only Cam Skattebo, Ashton Jeanty, and Zach Charbonnet seeing less runway with the ball in their hands. With a rebuilt offensive line to run behind in 2026, hopefully Judkins has more room to run. That will be put to the test in Week 1 against a run defense that last year, in Weeks 12-18, allowed the sixth-fewest yards after contact per attempt, the seventh-lowest missed tackle rate, and the 14th-lowest EPA per rush.
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32.
Jadarian Price
RB - SEA (vs . NE)
Jadarian Price was selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the Seahawks to be their new Kenneth Walker (and maybe more). Walker led the backfield last year for Seattle, but they limited his usage in the red zone and in the passing game. Price remains an unknown in the passing game after only 13 targets over the last two collegiate seasons at Notre Dame. Price is a wonderful rushing talent ranking 25th and fifth in yards after contact per attempt, 31st and 3rd in breakaway rate, and 15th and 39th in elusive rating over the last two seasons in college (per PFF). Price could find plenty of running room in Week 1 with a Seattle rushing attack that was seventh in zone rushing rate last year. Last season, New England held backs to the fifth-lowest explosive run rate, but they also gave up the ninth-highest rushing success rate, had the 11th-lowest stuff rate, and surrendered the fourth-highest zone rushing success rate.
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33.
A.J. Brown
WR - NE (at SEA)
AJ. Brown is on his third NFL team and hoping to do exactly what he did with the Eagles. That is, take a team on the verge of winning a Super Bowl and take them over the top. Brown joining up with Drake Maye is exactly what Patriots fans have been hoping for. The Patriots have been desperate for a dominant receiving threat for years, and they now have a proven star to put out wide and move around the formation. The big question is whether we saw a bit of a decline in Brown's game in 2025. Entering his age-30 season, there is a chance that his age is catching up to him. Even if he is on the decline, he has been a dominant receiver for a while and will still be able to come through for fantasy. Unfortunately, after the Seahawks stifled this offense in the Super Bowl, a rematch to open the season is concerning. We'll see if Brown was the piece they were missing in 2025 to compete with one of the league's best defenses. Personally, I would rank A.J. Brown as a WR2 this week due to matchup concerns.
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34.
Drake London
WR - ATL (at PIT)
We now know that Tua Tagovailoa will be the Falcons' starting QB entering 2026. Although we knew this was coming, it's hard to say if this is good or bad news for London managers. At the end of the day, we desperately need to see this Falcons team in action to be confident in any of their receiving options. We all know they have an abundance of offensive talent, but can Tua get the ball to his playmakers effectively? We'll find out against the Steelers this week. This is a tricky matchup for any offense that has had a lot of changes over their offseason. The Steeler's defense is their strength and could make it a long night for Tua. My name is Ellis, and I am writing the Player Outlooks for FantasyPros in 2026. Personally, I find it hard to rank London as a WR1 for this week given the amount of uncertainty this team has.
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35.
Jeremiyah Love
RB - ARI (at LAC)
We'll have to see how much work Jeremiyah Love gets in Week 1, as he is still recovering from a preseason injury, but I expect him to still be heavily involved. Across his last two years in college, he ranked inside the top 15 backs in each season in yards after contact per attempt, breakaway rate, and elusive rating (per PFF). He's also a stellar pass catcher, as evidenced by sitting at 17th in yards per route run among FBS backs last year and drawing a 10.9% target share. This offseason, the Bolts added Dalvin Tomlinson and Akheem Mesidor to the defensive front, but I don't know if that's enough for their run defense to take a huge leap forward. Last season, the Bolts allowed the eighth-highest explosive run rate, the 11th-highest rushing success rate, and the 13th-most yards before contact per attempt.
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36.
Zay Flowers
WR - BAL (at IND)
Last year, Zay Flowers posted career-best marks across the board with 86 receptions, 1,211 receiving yards, and a WR12 finish in fantasy points per game. It was amazing to see for a player who also ranked eighth in target share (27.7%), 11th in receiving yards per game (71.2), seventh in yards per route run (2.61), and tenth in first-read share (33.3%). While Flowers also saw 19 deep targets last year, the big concern with him is his touchdown upside. Flowers has never had more than five receiving touchdowns in any season, and with only 11 red zone targets last year, it's tough to project a huge spike in that this season, but there could be hope with the arrival of offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. Flowers could get off to a fast start in Week 1 despite facing a talented Indy secondary. In the two games Indy had Sauce Gardner available last year, they utilized single high with 64.7% of their defensive snaps. Flowers destroyed single high last year with a 27% target-per-route run rate and 2.85 yards per route run. Despite having to face Sauce Gardner and Charvarius Ward for most of the game, Flowers has the talent to succeed in Week 1 with a nice stat line.
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37.
DeVonta Smith
WR - PHI (vs . WAS)
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38.
Bhayshul Tuten
RB - JAC (vs . CLE)
Bhayshul Tuten will compete with Chris Rodriguez to be the lead back for the Jaguars in 2026. I want to bet on Tuten this year and his talent. Last year, Tuten was unfortunately robbed of the stretch run of his rookie season as he was sidelined by a finger injury. Before the injury, he was starting to make some noise. This could be the big breakout season for Tuten, who, on a per-touch basis, flashed the immense talent that I really liked when he was in college. Last season, among 55 qualifying backs, he ranked fifth in rushing success rate, 11th in missed tackle rate, and 17th in yards after contact per attempt. Rodriguez will remain a worry for Tuten at the goal line and for his overall touch count until we see his role fleshed out this season. That uncertainty makes it tough to count on Tuten as an RB2 in Week 1. He could ultimately produce like one this week, but it's tough to project that at the moment. The Browns should field a solid run defense again this season. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Cleveland allowed the 11th-lowest explosive run rate, the 12th-lowest rushing success rate, and the 11th-lowest missed tackle rate.
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39.
Tee Higgins
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
Over the last two seasons, Tee Higgins has been the WR13 and WR5 in fantasy points per game. Last season, with Joe Burrow under center in Weeks 14-18, Higgins had an 18.8% target share with 67.8 receiving yards per game, 2.20 yards per route run, a 25.6% first-read share, and 0.106 first downs per route run. Those are all incredibly impressive per-route metrics. For context, if Higgins had kept up that pace for an entire season with Burrow, he would have ranked 12th in receiving yards per game, 19th in yards per route run, 28th in first-read share, and 17th in first downs per route run among wideouts (minimum 200 routes). If this offense doesn't look stuck in the mud for Week 1, Higgins should get off to a nice start against a secondary that allowed the tenth-most yards per target and the 11th-most fantasy points per game to perimeter wide receivers.
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40.
Jaylen Warren
RB - PIT (vs . ATL)
Last season, Jaylen Warren had arguably his most productive season for fantasy purposes as the RB18 in fantasy points per game. He was his usual incredibly efficient self on a per-touch basis. In 2025, Warren ranked sixth in missed tackle rate, ninth in yards after contact per attempt, 12th in rushing success rate, third in yards per route run, and seventh in first downs per route run. He set career highs in carries (211), rushing yards (958), and total touchdowns (eight). Kenneth Gainwell moved on from Pittsburgh in the offseason, but Mike McCarthy brought in his favorite son, Rico Dowdle. Warren's role for Pittsburgh has evolved over the years from preferred passing-down back to lead back, but his role could be in flux in 2026 with the arrival of a new head coach and backfield mate. Warren can't be counted on for more than a flex play for Week 1, with his usage up in the air. If Warren does get into the end zone in Week 1, he could easily pay off as a flex, though. Atlanta was a middle-of-the-road run defense last year to close the season. In Weeks 12-18, Atlanta was 15th in stuff rate and rushing success rate allowed while also ranking 16th in yards before contact per attempt.
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41.
Tetairoa McMillan
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
Last year, Tetairoa McMillan had a strong rookie season as the WR20 in fantasy points per game despite a limited passing-volume offense and up-and-down quarterback play from Bryce Young. Last year, in Weeks 3-18, Young surpassed 35 passing attempts only once, had only two games with more than 225 passing yards, and directed an offense that was fifth in neutral rushing rate. Last year, McMillan, among 109 qualifying receivers, ranked 14th in target share (23.1%), 19th in receiving yards per game (59.6), 27th in yards per route run (1.94), 15th in first-read share (28.5%), and 17th in first downs per route run (0.105). Last year, to close the season in Weeks 17-20, Chicago leaned into single high coverage as a pass defense (58.2%). McMillan was excellent against single-high last year with a 26% target-per-route run rate and 2.06 yards per route run. McMillan could easily begin the season with a standout Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Chicago allowed the second-most yards per target and the fifth-most fantasy points per opportunity to perimeter wide receivers.
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42.
Rashee Rice
WR - KC (vs . DEN)
Rashee Rice had another "interesting offseason" where he had a knee scope and spent some time rehabbing from that procedure in a jail cell. Rice hasn't played more than eight games in a season since 2023, so while he has been very productive when he's been on the field over the last two seasons, we still haven't seen him available for a full calendar of football since that season. Last year, when he was on the field, Rice remained a target hog with a 26.2% target share (12th among 109 qualifying receivers), averaging 71.4 receiving yards per game (tenth), producing 2.28 yards per route run (15th), and churning out 0.112 first downs per route run with a 31.9% first-read share (both 14th-best). Rice could see a heavy workload in Week 1, but I don't know that he'll have a ton of productivity with it against a secondary that allowed the second-fewest yards per target and the fewest fantasy points per opportunity to wide receivers last season.
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43.
Davante Adams
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
Last season, Davante Adams was a fantasy monster before succumbing to a hamstring injury in Week 15 that forced him to miss the rest of the regular season. In Weeks 1-14, Adams (among 86 qualifying receivers per Fantasy Points Data) was 16th in target share (23.8%), 26th in receiving yards per game (55.2), 18th in yards per route run (2.02), 23rd in first-read share (27%), and fifth in first downs per route run (0.132). He was scoring touchdowns at an insane clip with 14 in those 13 games while leading all receivers with 30 red zone targets (the closest receiver to him during that span had 19). During those 13 games, Adams was the WR8 in fantasy points per game. Adams didn't show any falloff in his separation skills, ranking first in separation score and route win rate among 109 qualifying receivers last year. Last year, in his two games against the 49ers, he was the WR22 and WR12 in weekly scoring, averaging 9.5 targets and 82.5 receiving yards. Adams should have a strong start to the season against a secondary that allowed the 12th-most yards per target to perimeter wide receivers last season.
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44.
Tony Pollard
RB - TEN (vs . NYJ)
I don't want to read too much into the preseason usage for the Titans' backfield. Brian Daboll has a long history of utilizing one workhorse back in his offenses, so I'm still projecting Tony Pollard to be that guy. Could I be wrong and this is a 50/50 committee? Yep. Last year, Pollard ranked 15th in snap share, 17th in opportunity share, and 16th in weighted opportunities, but because of the putrid offensive situation he found himself in, he was only the RB29 in fantasy points per game. This can be traced to his five total touchdowns, which were a result of an offense that was 30th in points per game and 32nd in red zone scoring attempts per game, so it makes sense that he also ranked 49th in red zone touches. Pollard was still solid on a per-touch basis. Among 49 qualifying backs, he ranked 25th in explosive run rate and 22nd in yards after contact per attempt. The Jets added defensive firepower to their defensive line and linebacker room this offseason, so I project that their run defense will take another step forward in 2026. They were already a strong unit last season. Last year, New York allowed the sixth-lowest rushing success rate, the sixth-fewest yards before contact per attempt, and had the tenth-highest hit rate at or behind the line of scrimmage. Pollard is hopefully a volume play with RB2 upside in Week 1.
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45.
Ladd McConkey
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
Last year was a disappointing season for Ladd McConkey. He finished as the WR34 in fantasy points per game, with eight weeks outside the top 36 wide receivers in weekly scoring. The hype was heavy in draft season for McConkey to post monster numbers in Mike McDaniel's offense. I love McConkey's talent, but found myself lower than the market and expectations for McConkey this season. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, he ranked 41st in separation and 15th in route win rate. Those aren't damning numbers at all. Last year, among the same subset of receivers, McConkey was 29th in target share (19.8%), 62nd in yards per route run (1.47), 37th in receiving yards per game (49.3), 46th in first-read share (20.4%), and 64th in first downs per route run. None of that screams "amazing WR2 for fantasy purposes with WR1 upside." Last year, Arizona was 16th in fantasy points per opportunity allowed to wide receivers. McConkey should be in fantasy lineups in Week 1 with a middling matchup on deck.
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46.
Rico Dowdle
RB - PIT (vs . ATL)
Rico Dowdle did it again last season. Dowdle fought to get to the top of the Carolina running back depth chart as he wrestled the starting job away from Chuba Hubbard. In Weeks 5-18, Dowdle averaged 18.6 touches and 87.7 total yards as the RB10 in fantasy points per game. Dowdle also excelled last season on the ground and in the receiving game. He ranked 23rd in explosive run rate, 17th in missed tackle rate, tenth in yards after contact per attempt, 17th in yards per route run, and 16th in first downs per route run. After that strong season, Dowdle now finds himself reunited with Mike McCarthy in Pittsburgh as a backfield complement to Jaylen Warren. Dowdle can't be counted on for more than a flex play for Week 1, with his usage up in the air. If Dowdle does get into the end zone in Week 1, he could easily pay off as a flex, though. Atlanta was a middle-of-the-road run defense last year to close the season. In Weeks 12-18, Atlanta was 15th in stuff rate and rushing success rate allowed while also ranking 16th in yards before contact per attempt.
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47.
MarShawn Lloyd
RB - GB (at MIN)
MarShawn Lloyd looks primed to enter Week 1 as the Packers' workhorse back with Josh Jacobs on the commissioner-exempt list. Just to remind everyone about Lloyd's talent. During his final two collegiate seasons, he was 20th and 16th in yards after contact per attempt, third and 18th in breakaway rate, and fourth and 15th in elusive rating (per PFF, minimum 100 carries). Lloyd can take advantage of a run defense that lost some parts but added Caleb Banks, Domonique Orange, and Jake Golday this offseason. Minnesota could field an improved run defense in 2026, but I have to see it to believe it at this point. Last year, Minny ranked 16th in explosive run rate and 15th in yards after contact per attempt while giving up the sixth-highest rushing success rate and the fourth-lowest stuff rate.
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48.
Jameson Williams
WR - DET (vs . NO)
Jameson Williams had a tale-of-two-halves season in 2025. There are a lot of reasons why it worked out that way that I'll dive into shortly. In Weeks 1-9, he was the WR46 in fantasy points per game with a 14.9% target share (15.2 aDOT), 44.4 receiving yards per game, 1.54 yards per route run, a 14.9% first-read share, and 0.074 first downs per route run. During this stretch, Williams was just the low-volume field-stretching option while Sam LaPorta was healthy. John Morton was still calling plays, and it looked like Williams was on his way to a bust season. Then Sam LaPorta was lost for the season in Week 10, and Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties, and everything changed for the Detroit speedster. In Weeks 10-18, Williams was the WR11 in fantasy points per game while seeing an 18.5% target share (11.5 aDOT) with 84.7 receiving yards per game, 2.34 yards per route run, a 21.1% first-read share, and 0.098 first downs per route run. Williams' target share and first-read share put him in the WR2/3 bucket, while his per-route efficiency and three 100-yard receiving games vaulted him higher. His aDOT came down, and he was more involved weekly as a central cog of the offense. So the question is which version of Williams will we see in 2026? Well, that's tough to say because Drew Petzing will be calling plays, and he has had his own struggles in previous seasons putting wide receivers in the best spot to produce (hello, Marvin Harrison Jr.). If this game against the Saints turns into a shootout, Williams could have a strong Week 1, but I wouldn't trust him as more than a WR3/flex to open the season. The Saints secondary was stout to close last season. In Weeks 12-18, they allowed the second-lowest yards per target and the fifth-fewest fantasy points per opportunity to perimeter wide receivers.
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49.
J.K. Dobbins
RB - DEN (at KC)
J.K. Dobbins should be Denver's early down hammer again this year. Last year, in Weeks 1-10, he was the RB24 in fantasy points per game, averaging 16.4 touches and 80.6 total yards. The bulk of that work was in the rushing department, as he averaged only 1.4 targets and 3.7 receiving yards per game. He had only four games in which he saw more than one target, and he never saw more than two targets in any game. Dobbins was on pace for 260 carries and 1,313 rushing yards before his injury, so his value on early downs is quite nice. Among 49 qualifying backs, he ranked third in explosive run rate and eighth in missed tackle rate. Dobbins should have a productive Week 1 against a run defense that last year allowed the eighth-highest zone rushing success rate (Dobbins 54.9% zone in 2025), had the tenth-lowest rate of hits at or behind the line of scrimmage, and ranked 17th in yards before contact per attempt.
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50.
Jaylen Waddle
WR - DEN (at KC)
Jaylen Waddle should be Denver's unquestioned WR1 this season. Last year, among 109 qualifying wide receivers, he was 12th in target per route run rate, 12th in yards per route run, seventh in first downs per route run, 12th in separation score, and 11th in route win rate. He also bested Courtland Sutton in each of those metrics with the exception of route win rate (15.3% vs. 15.5%). We'll see how quickly the new (or throwback, depending on how you choose to view it) look Kansas City corner room can hit the ground running with Nohl Williams (2025: 52.6% catch rate and 85.0 passer rating) starting opposite Mansoor Delane (rookie) and L'Jarius Sneed (2025: 60.9% catch rate and 139.3 passer rating). Waddle should be heavily involved Week 1.
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51.
Malik Nabers
WR - NYG (vs . DAL)
Last year, before he was lost to a torn ACL (with subsequent meniscus damage), Malik Nabers was the WR9 in fantasy points per game. In Weeks 1-3, he drew a 26.4% target share with 83.7 receiving yards per game, 2.15 yards per route run, and a 41.5% first-read share. Those are all elite WR1 per-game numbers no matter how you slice it. The worry surrounding Nabers this season is the recovery from the devastating knee injury. The camp reports have been positive. Nabers looks good from the few practice routes I have seen, displaying good acceleration off the line and precision with his route breaks. There are also concerns with Matt Nagy's hiring as the new offensive coordinator for the Giants. If Nabers is even 80% of his normal amazingness, I expect him to be the clear target hog for the Giants in Week 1. Cobie Durant (2025: 55.4% catch rate and 79.2 passer rating) and DaRon Bland (2025: 67.1% catch rate and 109 passer rating) will be tested by Nabers all game.
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52.
Garrett Wilson
WR - NYJ (at TEN)
Last year, before being lost to a knee injury (Weeks 1-6), Garrett Wilson was the WR10 in fantasy points per game. During that span, he commanded a 31.2% target share with 65.8 receiving yards per game, 1.92 yards per route run, a whopping 45.9% first-read share, and 0.087 first downs per route run. I expect Geno Smith to lean on his start receiver in Week 1 against a revamped Tennessee secondary. Alontae Taylor (2025: 68.9% catch rate and 107.5 passer rating) and Cor'Dale Flott (53% catch rate and 72.8 passer rating) aren't pushovers, but they also aren't elite and won't push Wilson out of my starting lineups for Week 1.
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53.
Emeka Egbuka
WR - TB (at CIN)
Emeka Egbuka faded after Week 5 last year after he sustained a hamstring injury, and Baker Mayfield's injury severely impacted his ability to feed catchable targets to the receiving options in Tampa Bay. In Weeks 1-5, Egbuka was the WR3 in fantasy points per game, commanding a 22.1% target share with 89 receiving yards per game, 2.71 yards per route run, a 26.1% first-read share, and 0.104 first downs per route run. Had Egbuka kept up that pace all season, he would have ranked 19th in target share, third in receiving yards per game, fourth in yards per route run, 26th in first-read share, and 20th in first downs per route run. Sadly, he didn't keep up that pace. In Weeks 6-18, despite still drawing a 23.1% target share with a 28.9% first-read share, Egbuka had only 41.1 receiving yards per game, 1.50 yards per route run, and 0.052 first downs per route run as the WR55 in fantasy points per game. Egbuka has dealt with a toe injury in camp, which is concerning, but his coverage and possible shadow matchups in Week 1 concern me more. Last year, Egbuka ran 63.5% of his routes from the perimeter, which means he could see D.J. Turner for most of Week 1. Last year, Turner was one of the best shutdown corners in the NFL, following D.K. Metcalf (twice), Justin Jefferson, Romeo Doubs, Zay Flowers (twice), and Gabe Davis on at least 60% of their routes. In those matchups, he allowed only one receiving touchdown, and only Jefferson surpassed 70 receiving yards in his coverage. An added worry is also Cincy's usage of single high (sixth-highest last year, 56.7%). Last year, when Egbuka was at the height of his powers (Weeks 1-5), against single high he only had 1.36 yards per route run. Egbuka could get by in Week 1 with volume and some timely slot usage to get him away from Turner, but I don't think it'll be a blow-up game.
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54.
Christian Watson
WR - GB (at MIN)
Christian Watson got the bag this offseason and should be considered the clear WR1 for the Green Bay Packers. Watson deserved the payday as he proved that he can handle this role last year. Last season, in Weeks 8-18, he was the WR21 in fantasy points per game with an 18.2% target share, 61.1 receiving yards per game, 2.67 yards per route run, a 23.9% first-read share, and 0.122 first downs per route run. His target share and first-read share should go up this season with Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks gone and Watson likely getting promoted into a full-time role. Last year, he was also held back by a 68% route share (56th out of 109 qualifying receivers). Jordan Love will be blitzed incessantly this week by Brian Flores, but that should work in Watson's favor. Last year, when Love was blitzed, Watson was tied for the team lead with a 26% target-per-route run rate while ranking second with a 21% first-read share and posting 2.60 yards per route run. Last year, Minny allowed the second-most yards per target and the third-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers. I expect Watson to shine in Week 1.
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55.
Chuba Hubbard
RB - CAR (vs . CHI)
Chuba Hubbard followed up his big breakout 2024 season with a stinker in 2025. Last year, Chuba Hubbard fell apart as the RB40 in fantasy points per game. Yes, he dealt with a calf injury for part of the season, but he also lost his starting job during the season to Rico Dowdle. Hubbard was arguably the most inefficient running back in the NFL last year. Among 49 qualifying backs, he ranked dead last in missed tackle rate and explosive run rate (zero explosive runs) while also sitting at 47th in yards after contact per attempt. I expect Jonathon Brooks to lead the backfield this season, but Hubbard should still be a sizable portion of the rushing attack to open the season. This gives him flex value with some upside for Week 1. The Bears' run defense struggled to close last season, and they didn't make any massive additions this offseason to give any hope that they'll be improved this year. Last season, in Weeks 12-18, Chicago allowed the highest rushing success rate, the sixth-most yards before contact per attempt, and the 11th-highest EPA per rush.
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56.
Trey McBride
TE - ARI (at LAC)
Considering McBride lapped the fantasy field in 2025, there is surprisingly little buzz around the elite TE. Part of this is the return of Bowers, and part of this is the emergence of Colstan Loveland. Either way, it's hard to overlook 1239 yards and 11 touchdowns from last season. The Cardinals also brought back Jacoby Brissett, who isn't afraid to air it out. Unfortunately, outside of the offensive skill positions, this team is in rough shape. As a result, going against the Chargers to open the season is a little concerning. That said, McBride is guaranteed to see enough volume to have a solid fantasy outing regardless of matchup.
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57.
Colston Loveland
TE - CHI (at CAR)
Arguably the biggest question that will be answered in Week 1 is "was the Loveland hype worth it?" Obviously, he has the whole season to answer that question; however, we all know Week 1 reactions are powerful. Personally, I think he will exceed his already lofty expectations this year. Loveland is the perfect TE for a Ben Johnson offense and should see a lot of volume each week. Even with Luther Burden returning to practice, there should be plenty to go around. On that note, Rome Odunze has missed a practice and may not be 100%. All this points to Loveland starting the year on fire against the Carolina Panthers.
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58.
Rome Odunze
WR - CHI (at CAR)
Rome Odunze was on his way to a breakout season before he sustained a foot fracture. In Weeks 1-12, he was the WR21 in fantasy points per game despite dealing with a 68.3% catchable target rate (96th out of 127 qualifying receivers). During that stretch of games, among that sample of receivers, he was 21st in target share (22.4%), 20th in receiving yards per game (59.4), 27th in yards per route run (1.95), 25th in first-read share (27.2%), and 16th in first-downs per route run (0.107). Foot injuries always scare me, and Odunze has talked openly this offseason about the "new normal" of playing, planting, and running on his foot. Odunze is healthy to open the season. I just hope that it stays that way so we can see him flourish in 2026. In Week 1, Odunze will face a Carolina secondary that, in Weeks 10-18, utilized single high with 56.9% of their snaps. Last season, in Weeks 1-12 against single high, Odunze had a 25% target-per-route run rate and 1.86 yards per route run. Odunze should have a strong game to open 2026. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Carolina allowed the ninth-most fantasy points per opportunity to perimeter wide receivers.
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59.
Luther Burden III
WR - CHI (at CAR)
Luther Burden steps into a much larger workload in 2026. Last year (including the playoffs), Burden had only five games in which he played at least 53% of the snaps. In those games, he had a 15.5% target share and 61.2 receiving yards per game, which is concerning, but his per-route metrics were outstanding, with 2.30 yards per route run, a 23.6% first-read share, and 0.120 first downs per route run. There's a lot of projection for Burden's 2026 season. Last year, he was stellar overall per-route with a 26% target per route run rate (11th), 2.83 yards per route run (third), 0.117 first downs per route run (12th), and 0.56 fantasy points per route run (eighth, among all wideouts with at least 200 routes). In Week 1, Burden will face a Carolina secondary that, in Weeks 10-18, utilized single high with 56.9% of their snaps. Last season, against single high, Burden had a 27% target-per-route run rate and 3.35 yards per route run. Burden should begin the 2026 season with a bang. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Carolina allowed the ninth-most fantasy points per opportunity to perimeter wide receivers.
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60.
Terry McLaurin
WR - WAS (at PHI)
Terry McLaurin experienced a steep drop-off last year after his banner WR14 campaign in 2024. Ultimately, the Washington offense took a massive step back, and McLaurin was dealing with a quad injury for much of last season, which limited him to ten games played. In those ten games, yes, he was the WR33 in fantasy points per game, but his per-route metrics remained stellar. Among 109 qualifying receivers, McLaurin ranked 25th in target per route run rate (24%), 13th in yards per route run (2.38), fourth in first downs per route run (0.135), and 26th in route win rate. Last year in Washington's two meetings with Philly, the Eagles utilized two high with 60.4% of their defensive snaps. Last year, against two high, McLaurin had only a 20% target-per-route run rate, but he also had 2.26 yards per route run. McLaurin should see plenty of volume this week against Philly, but I worry about his ceiling against this talented secondary. Last year, Philly allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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61.
Jordan Mason
RB - MIN (vs . GB)
Jordan Mason is a one-trick pony, but that one trick is quite good. He's a strong early-down option for NFL offenses and should continue to serve in the role this season for Minnesota. Last year, he was the RB42 in fantasy points per game while soaking up 158 rushing attempts and producing 758 rushing yards and six total touchdowns. Among 49 qualifying backs, he ranked tenth in explosive run rate, seventh in rushing success rate, ninth in missed tackle rate, and 15th in yards after contact per attempt. Aaron Jones will continue to be the passing-down partner for Mason for Minny in 2026. Mason is a viable touchdown-dependent flex for Week 1. Last year, Green Bay allowed the sixth-lowest explosive run rate and the fifth-fewest yards after contact per attempt while ranking 15th in yards before contact per attempt and rushing success rate allowed.
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62.
Parker Washington
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
Parker Washington finished last season with a flurry of insane production; if he picks up right where he left off, he'll crush this season. Last year, in Weeks 16-19, Washington asserted himself as the Jags' clear WR1. During that stretch, he averaged 22.3 PPR points per game while soaking up six red zone targets and 13 deep targets. In those four games, he had a 28.9% target share, 113.5 receiving yards per game, 3.78 yards per route run, and a 33.3% first-read share. Those are all absolutely elite metrics no matter how you slice it. I have no concern about Parker Washington's ability to get open this week against Cleveland's slot corner, Myles Harden (2025: 71.9% catch rate and 119.3 passer rating). Last year, among 34 qualifying slot corners, Harden allowed the fifth-highest passer rating, the ninth-most fantasy points per target, and the ninth-highest rate of a step of separation.
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63.
Mike Evans
WR - SF (at LAR)
Mike Evans is practicing, so I'm projecting him to be active in Week 1. Evans might be older, but he hasn't slowed down when you look at his metrics. Last year, during his seven full games played, he had a 24.4% target share, a 30.6% first-read share, and 0.116 first downs per route run. Among 109 qualifying receivers last year, those numbers would have ranked 13th-best across the board. Yes, during that sample, he had only 1.86 yards per route run and 52.6 receiving yards per game, which would have ranked 31st and 33rd among the same group of receivers, but that was more related to Baker Mayfield's inaccuracy than Evans slowing down. In his full games played, Evans had only a 70.9% catchable target rate, which among those 109 receivers would have ranked 84th. Evans' on-field production didn't match his deeper analytics and target-earning ability, as he was also second-best in separation and route win rate last season. Last year, the Rams did allow the 14th-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers, but they also added Trent McDuffie (2025: 66.7% catch rate and 93.0 passer rating) and Jaylen Watson (2025: 63.8% catch rate and 89.1 passer rating) this offseason to address this issue. If you have Evans on your team, you're likely starting him this week. Evans still has the talent to succeed in a tough matchup.
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64.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt
RB - WAS (at PHI)
Last year, Jacory Croskey-Merritt had an up-and-down season as the RB41 in fantasy points per game. Washington didn't trust him as a passing game option, and he was in and out of the starting lineup as the team also leaned on other backs like Chris Rodriguez. He's been working on his pass pro this offseason, and the buzz out of camp is that he'll be utilized more in the passing game this season. We'll see if that comes to fruition, but it's nice to hear regardless. In 2025, Croskey-Merritt had four top-24 finishes in weekly scoring while also popping in rushing efficiency metrics. Among 49 qualifying backs, he ranked 26th in explosive run rate, 19th in yards after contact per attempt, seventh in yards per carry on zone runs, and ninth in one rushing success rate. Behind Washington's suspect offensive line, I don't know how much running room he'll find in Week 1. I'm sitting him in most leagues where I roster him. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Philly allowed the 11th-lowest rushing success rate, the 11th-fewest yards before contact per attempt, and had the ninth-best stuff rate.
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65.
Blake Corum
RB - LAR (vs . SF)
Blake Corum is a viable touchdown-dependent flex this week with a good matchup. Last year, in Weeks 7-18, Corum helped Kyren Williams with the heavy lifting on early downs, averaging 10.5 rushing attempts and 53.6 rushing yards. He didn't offer much through the air during that stretch with only seven targets and 27 receiving yards. If you're looking to flex Corum this week, he'll have to pay off in the rushing department and (hopefully) fall into the end zone. Last year, among 49 qualifying backs, Corum ranked sixth in explosive run rate and 11th in missed tackle rate. Last year, San Francisco allowed the highest rushing success rate, the tenth-most yards before contact per attempt, and had the seventh-lowest hit rate at or behind the line of scrimmage.
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66.
DK Metcalf
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
Yes, D.K. Metcalf finished as the WR19 in fantasy points per game last year, but if you rostered him last season, you know that it wasn't nearly that glorious to trot him out in your lineup weekly. In nine of his 15 games played, he was outside the top 24 receivers in weekly scoring. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, Metcalf ranked 24th in target share (21.1%), 26th in receiving yards per game (56.7), 25th in yards per route run (1.98), 20th in first-read share (27.7%), and 37th in first downs per route run. Metcalf's Week 1 matchup does work in his favor, though. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Atlanta had the fourth-highest single-high rate (59.4%). Last year, against single-high, Metcalf had a robust 28% target-per-route-run rate and 2.38 yards per route run. In Weeks 12-18, Atlanta allowed the second-most fantasy points per game and the second-most receiving touchdowns to perimeter wide receivers. Metcalf should lead the way for Pittsburgh's passing attack in Week 1.
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67.
DJ Moore
WR - BUF (at HOU)
D.J. Moore's stock took a tumble last year as Moore sank to WR41 in fantasy points per game. Moore had a 14.3% target share with 1.33 yards per route run, a 17.5% first-read share, and 0.063 first downs per route run. None of these numbers offer hope for 2026, but don't tune out just yet. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, Moore was 47th and 49th in separation score and route win rate. The numbers get even better when we look at Moore as a perimeter receiver, which he'll be asked to do more than the 65% of snaps that he played there last year. As an outside receiver last year, among the same sample of receivers, he was 36th in separation and 29th in route win rate. Moore has a tough matchup out of the gate against the Houston Texans. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, against perimeter wide receivers, they allowed the 11th-fewest fantasy points per game to receiving yards and the 14th-fewest fantasy points per opportunity. Moore should get peppered with volume, which should help him in this difficult matchup, but I'm not projecting a monster performance from him in Week 1.
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68.
Tyler Warren
TE - IND (vs . BAL)
The Colts have had a lot of questions all offseason. From whether Daniel Jones or Alex Pierce will be healthy to Anthony Richardson beating out Riley Leonard for the backup job, it's been a rollercoaster of the last few months. That said, there have been two constants all offseason: Jonathan Taylor and Tyler Warren. For months, we have heard that Tyler Warren will be the center of this passing attack. Considering he had over 800 yards, 76 receptions, and four touchdowns as a rookie, he definitely has the ability. This season, they start at home against the Ravens. The Ravens brought in defensive-minded Head Coach Jesse Minter and may have a strong game plan to stop Warren and company. However, Warren's target floor makes him a top option in all formats this week.
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69.
Jonathon Brooks
RB - CAR (vs . CHI)
Jonathon Brooks is a nice flex with upside in Week 1. He should at least split the work with Chuba Hubbard to open the season, with the upside to be the clear lead runner from the jump. Just to remind everyone about the talent that Brooks has, in 2024 (his final collegiate season), he ranked 21st in yards after contact per attempt, ninth in elusive rating, and 21st in yards per route run (per PFF). The Bears' run defense struggled to close last season, and they didn't make any massive additions this offseason to give any hope that they'll be improved this year. Last season, in Weeks 12-18, Chicago allowed the highest rushing success rate, the sixth-most yards before contact per attempt, and the 11th-highest EPA per rush.
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70.
Tucker Kraft
TE - GB (at MIN)
Less than a year removed from tearing his ACL, it's looking like Tucker Kraft will suit up for Week 1. This offseason, we have heard mixed reports on whether the team will ease Kraft back or not. Thankfully, Kraft has always been an efficiency fiend, and even limited usage could result in a big fantasy day. The Packers are also facing Brian Flores and his feisty Vikings defense. Last season, the Vikings held TEs to the fewest fantasy points per game. My name is Ellis, and I will be writing the FantasyPros weekly Player Outlooks this season. In my opinion, the Vikings' defense paired with Kraft's return from injury, and I wouldn't be afraid to look elsewhere this week. For example, I would rather play Dallas Goedert or Travis Kelce over Kraft.
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71.
Marvin Harrison Jr.
WR - ARI (at LAC)
Marvin Harrison Jr. had a troubled 2025 season as he dealt with a concussion, an appendectomy, and a heel injury that cost him five games. In the eight games he played last year before dealing with appendicitis and a heel injury, he garnered a 21.9% target share, producing 61.6 receiving yards per game with 1.68 yards per route run, a 27.1% first-read share, and 0.082 first downs per route run. During that stretch, he averaged 13.4 PPR points per game. It's a BIG if, but if he had kept up that type of production, he would have been the WR17 in fantasy points per game. Last year, if you put up that sample for Harrison Jr. against all wide receivers with at least 200 routes, he would have ranked 19th in target share, 16th in receiving yards per game, 44th in yards per route run, 23rd in first-read share, and 46th in first downs per route run. We'll see if Harrison Jr. can pick up where he left off in Week 1 against a secondary that last year allowed the 11th-fewest receiving yards per game and the fifth-fewest fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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72.
Chris Rodriguez Jr.
RB - JAC (vs . CLE)
Chris Rodriguez reunited with Liam Coen this offseason as he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Rodriguez and Coen spent time together during Coen's one-year tenure as Kentucky's offensive coordinator during the 2021 collegiate season. In that season, Rodriguez ran for 1,379 yards with 6.1 yards per carry and 12 total touchdowns. Rodriguez will look to build upon his brief run as Washington's starter last season. In Weeks 10-18, he drew six starts while averaging 12.7 touches and 57.7 total yards as the RB31 in fantasy points per game. Rodriguez could be an early down and short yardage option for the Jags this year, as he won't be contributing much in the passing game. Last season, he had only four targets and 30 receiving yards with Washington. He was quite good as a rusher, though, ranking 12th in missed tackle rate and second in yards after contact per attempt. It's difficult to consider Rodriguez as anything more than a touchdown-dependent flex until we see how the workload is divided up for the Jags early this season. The Browns should field a solid run defense again this season. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Cleveland allowed the 11th-lowest explosive run rate, the 12th-lowest rushing success rate, and the 11th-lowest missed tackle rate.
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73.
Chris Godwin Jr.
WR - TB (at CIN)
Last year, Chris Godwin had a slow ramp-up in 2025, coming off a horrific ankle fracture in 2024. After coming back in Week 5, he had a fibula injury that delayed his return to a full-time role until Week 13. Once he was back, in Weeks 13-18 (59.7% slot), he had a 16.8% target share, 49.8 receiving yards per game, 1.88 yards per route run, a 21.2% first-read share, and 0.107 first downs per route run. The yards per route run and first downs per route run in that stretch loudly state that Chris Godwin isn't washed or over the hill, as he was also the WR32 in fantasy points per game. Baker Mayfield could lean heavily on Godwin if Emeka Egbuka is being followed by DJ Turner all day. The coverage matchup for Godwin could also work in his favor. Last year, Cincy utilized single high at the sixth-highest rate (56.7%). In Weeks 13-18, Godwin had 1.71 yards per route run and a 21.3% first-read share against single high. Cincy was also horrible at defending the slot, giving up the fifth-most yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to the position.
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74.
Quentin Johnston
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
Quentin Johnston could easily be the Bolts' WR1 this season because when he was healthy last season, that's exactly who he was. Last year, in Week 5, Johnston sustained a hamstring injury that lingered into his Week 7 and 8 usage (missed Week 6). In Weeks 7-8, Johnston had a 9.1% target share and zero targets (9.78% and zero first-read shares). Those were massive departures from his early-season usage and for the remainder of the season. In Weeks 1-4 and 9-18, when he was presumably healthy, Johnson had a 20.3% target share, 1.83 yards per route run, 12 red zone targets, 17 deep targets, a 27% missed tackle rate, and a 24.8% first-read share. During those games, Johnston led the team in EACH of those statistical categories while posting 13.9 PPR points per game. If Johnston had kept up that per-game output for fantasy all season, he would have been the WR16 in fantasy points per game. Johnston is a strong fantasy option for Week 1 against a secondary that allowed the ninth-most yards per target and ranked 16th in fantasy points per opportunity against perimeter wide receivers last year.
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75.
Courtland Sutton
WR - DEN (at KC)
Over the last two seasons, Courtland Sutton has been the unquestioned WR1 for Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos. In those seasons, he finished as the WR18 and WR24 in fantasy points per game. The arrival of Jaylen Waddle will change that this year. Sutton still can be a highly productive player in a pass-happy offense, but he'll take a backseat to Waddle. Sutton's per-route data remained solid, but it wasn't spectacular outside of his separation score and route win rate (20th, ninth). Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, Sutton was 35th in target per route run rate, 32nd in yards per route run, and 29th in first downs per route run. We'll see how quickly the new (or throwback, depending on how you choose to view it) look Kansas City corner room can hit the ground running with Nohl Williams (2025: 52.6% catch rate and 85.0 passer rating) starting opposite Mansoor Delane (rookie) and L'Jarius Sneed (2025: 60.9% catch rate and 139.3 passer rating). Sutton is a solid flex/WR3 for Week 1 who could easily be a WR2.
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76.
Sam LaPorta
TE - DET (vs . NO)
Before his 2025 season was lost to a back injury, Sam LaPorta was the TE7 in fantasy points per game. The back has healed up well over the offseason, but LaPorta is already dealing with a hip injury he sustained in camp, calling his early-season effectiveness into question. Despite the injury-shortened season, LaPorta was still one of the most explosive tight ends in the NFL on a per-route basis. Among 59 qualifying tight ends, he ranked tenth in target share (17.8%), sixth in receiving yards per game (54.3), fifth in yards per route run (2.14), and eighth in first downs per route run (0.100). LaPorta doesn't have the best matchup to open the season, but he could still get in the end zone and finish as a TE1 in Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, New Orleans allowed the ninth-fewest yards per target and the third-fewest fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends.
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77.
Kenny Gainwell
RB - TB (at CIN)
Kenneth Gainwell was an integral part of the Pittsburgh backfield last year for the entire season, but he really hit his stride in Weeks 11-18 as the RB7 in fantasy points per game with 13.3 touches and 85 total yards per game. His passing game usage was robust during this stretch as he was third in target share (17.5%), second in receiving yards per game (45.4), fourth in yards per route run (2.10), and first in first downs per route run (0.116). That also isn't to say that he wasn't also fantastic on early downs, ranking 14th in explosive run rate and missed tackle rate overall for the season among backs. All of the reports out of camp are that Gainwell will split the work with Bucky Irving this season, much like Rachaad White has in previous seasons. It's tough projecting this matchup with all of the moves the Cincy made this offseason to overhaul their defensive line with the additions of Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, Boye Mafe, and Cashius Howell. I'm treating it as a neutral matchup with the ability to be a positive one for Gainwell on the ground. Last year, Cincy allowed the seventh-highest explosive run rate and rushing success rate and the fourth-most yards before contact per attempt to backs. Even if Cincy is improved as a defense against the run, they didn't massively overhaul their linebacker room, so Gainwell could eat through the air. Last year, Cincy allowed the sixth-most yards per target, the second-most YAC/reception, and the third-most yards per route run to backs.
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78.
Brian Thomas Jr.
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
Brian Thomas Jr. was one of the biggest busts of the 2025 season. He dealt with a high ankle sprain and a shoulder issue and never looked like the player we all loved during his rookie season. Once Thomas Jr. was "healthy" and Jakobi Meyers was on the roster, Thomas was relegated to a field-stretching role. In Weeks 13-18, he had only two top-24 outings in weekly scoring (WR15, WR23) with a 14.9% target share (18.1 aDOT), 47.8 receiving yards per game, 1.65 yards per route run, three red zone targets, and a 20.6% first-read share. If Thomas Jr. is going to have a bounce-back campaign, I don't think it starts in Week 1. Last year, when Tyson Campbell and Denzel Ward were on the field together as full-time players, the Cleveland pass defense was a shutdown unit against perimeter wide receivers. In their eight games together, the Browns' pass defense allowed only 1.43 fantasy points per target and 7.24 yards per target to perimeter wide receivers. Over the entire season, those would have been the third-lowest marks in each category in the NFL. In that sample, Cleveland was also elite at defending against deep passing, giving up only a 31% completion rate and a 73.1 passer rating. Over the entire season, those would have ranked as sixth-best and seventh-best against deep passing.
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79.
Rachaad White
RB - WAS (at PHI)
Over the last two seasons, with Bucky Irving in town, Rachaad White was a more effective per-touch player, but with Irving out of the lineup last year, he proved again that he can carry the mail (although while being horribly inefficient). Last season, in Weeks 5-12, White averaged 14.6 touches and 60 total yards while seeing 71% of the snaps. During that span, White was the RB23 in fantasy points per game with a 1.2% explosive run rate, a 14% missed tackle rate, and only 1.52 yards after contact per attempt. White should be operating in a committee this season with Jacory Croskey-Merritt. Behind Washington's suspect offensive line, I don't know how much running room he'll find in Week 1. I'm sitting him in most leagues where I roster him. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Philly allowed the 11th-lowest rushing success rate, the 11th-fewest yards before contact per attempt, and had the ninth-best stuff rate.
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80.
Aaron Jones Sr.
RB - MIN (vs . GB)
Last year, Aaron Jones missed five games while dealing with hamstring, shoulder, and hip injuries. When he was active, he averaged 13.3 touches and 62.3 total yards as the RB31 in fantasy points per game. Entering his age-32 season, I don't think Jones can be expected to play a full 17 games as a workhorse back. He will likely split work with Jordan Mason this season, picking up most of the passing game usage. On early downs, his best days are behind him, as he was 32nd in explosive run rate, 43rd in missed tackle rate, and 49th in yards after contact per attempt. In the receiving game, he is still above average, ranking 26th in yards per route run and 24th in first downs per route run. Jones is only a middling flex to open the 2026 season against his former team. Last year, Green Bay allowed the sixth-lowest explosive run rate and the fifth-fewest yards after contact per attempt while ranking 15th in yards before contact per attempt and rushing success rate allowed.
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81.
Carnell Tate
WR - TEN (vs . NYJ)
Well, Carnell Tate didn't have a banner preseason as he failed to secure any of his six targets, but I don't put this slow start on Tate. I think it rests at the feet of Cam Ward. I'm not fading Tate's talent off a small 25-route preseason sample. Tate displayed in college that he's an amazing route runner who can separate at all three levels of the field after ranking tenth in yards per route run and fourth in receiving grade last season (per PFF). He finished college with an otherworldly 68.8% contested catch rate, and he had zero drops in his final season despite a 14.6 aDOT. The outside corner tandem of Brandon Stephens (2025: 67.1% catch rate and 126.4 passer rating) and Nashon Wright (2025: 64.5% catch rate and 98.0 passer rating) doesn't strike fear in my heart. Tate could walk away from Week 1 with a wonderful stat line that has everyone reconsidering their offseason fade of him. It all comes down to Cam Ward and his ability to get Tate catchable targets
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82.
Kyle Pitts Sr.
TE - ATL (at PIT)
This may be the first year when the Kyle Pitts hype has not gotten out of hand. Ironically, this is the first season since his rookie season that the excitement is somewhat justified. After a solid 2025 campaign, Pitts flashed his upside in Week 15, going for 166 yards and three scores. Although that might be the best game of his career, it was good to see elite production from the young TE. Unfortunately, his production is now tied to Tua Tagovailoa. It was clear this offseason that Tua didn't necessarily "win" the job; he was given it as a participation award. Going against a stout Steelers defense in Week 1 may force Tua to get the ball out quickly. As a result, we could see Pitts get a lot of short targets to complement Drake London downfield. It's hard to have high expectations for Pitts, but if he walks out of Week 1 with eight targets and 60 yards, I'd consider that a victory.
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83.
Michael Wilson
WR - ARI (at LAC)
Michael Wilson had Grand Canyon-sized splits last year when Marvin Harrison Jr. was out of the lineup versus when he was healthy. In the eight games Harrison Jr. was active before his heel injury and was healthy, Wilson had only an 11.7% target share, 23.4 receiving yards per game, 0.72 yards per route run, and a 14.1% first-read share. That isn't remotely close to fantasy-viable production. In the games Harrison Jr. missed and during Weeks 16 & 17 (after Harrison Jr returned post heel injury), Wilson was absolutely fantastic with a 27.5% target share, 105.6 receiving yards per game, 2.79 yards per route run, and a 38.8% first-read share (23.3 PPR points per game). That is elite WR1-level production and efficiency. Unfortunately for Wilson, Harrison Jr. is healthy to begin the season, and they are both staring at a touch matchup for Week 1 against a secondary that last year allowed the 11th-fewest receiving yards per game and the fifth-fewest fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers. Sit Wilson for Week 1.
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84.
Jordan Addison
WR - MIN (vs . GB)
Last year, as the quarterback play in Minnesota cratered, Jordan Addison had a career-worst season as the WR44 in fantasy points per game. Addison had only a 17.4% target share with 43.6 receiving yards per game, 1.53 yards per route run, a 22.1% first-read share, and 0.065 first downs per route run. None of those numbers jump off the page, but there's hope for Addison's flex value for Week 1. Since 2023, Jonathon Gannon has utilized two high at the third-highest rate (57.6%). During the same stretch of time, against two high, Addison has seen his target-per-route-run rate climb from 18% to 20% and his yards per route run increase from 1.50 to 1.85 against two high. If Kyler Murray can prove me wrong in Week 1, Addison could have a nice game. Last year, Green Bay allowed the ninth-most receiving yards per game and the fifth-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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85.
Jayden Reed
WR - GB (at MIN)
Jayden Reed missed much of the 2025 season with a broken collarbone and surgery to repair a Jones fracture. Last year, we got only a five-game sample for Reed where he played at least 35% of the snaps. In those contests, Reed had a 21% target-per-route-run rate, 1.99 yards per route run, and 0.47 fantasy points per route run. Those are strong numbers, but the worry for Reed persists into 2026 about his inclusion in two wide receiver sets. Last year, Reed played 75% of his snaps from the slot, which is tough when Green Bay ranked 22nd in usage of 11 personnel (55.6%). Sit Reed this week. Last year, Minnesota allowed the seventh-fewest yards per target, the second-fewest receiving yards per game, and the sixth-fewest fantasy points per target to slot receivers.
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86.
Dallas Goedert
TE - PHI (vs . WAS)
Last year was the second time in Dallas Goedert's career that he finished as a top-six fantasy tight end (TE6 in fantasy points per game). Goedert accomplished this by spiking a career-high 11 receiving touchdowns. Last year, among 59 qualifying tight ends, Goedert ranked eighth in target share (18.4%), 33rd in yards per route run (1.43), 17th in receiving yards per game (39.4), eighth in first-read share (21%), seventh in red zone targets (15), and 21st in first downs per route run (0.083). Washington added a lot of firepower to their pass rush and secondary this offseason, but we'll see how much and how quickly they can improve a defense that allowed the most yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends last year.
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87.
RJ Harvey
RB - DEN (at KC)
R.J. Harvey's rookie season was a tale of two seasons centered around J.K. Dobbins being in the lineup and out of it. In Weeks 1-10, Harvey was the RB29 in fantasy points per game, averaging 29.1% of the snaps played with 7.5 touches and 38.9 total yards per game. In Weeks 11-18, with Dobbins out, he was the RB13 in fantasy points per game with 16.8 touches and 72.5 total yards per game while averaging 60.7% of the snaps played. With Dobbins back, I'm expecting Harvey to be the primary passing down back for Denver. As a pass catcher, he ranked sixth in target per route run rate and first downs per route run and tenth in yards per route run. Harvey is a PPR-focused flex play for Week 1. Last year, Kansas City allowed the 13th-most yards per target to running backs while ranking 17th in fantasy points per game allowed to receiving production.
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88.
Michael Pittman Jr.
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
Michael Pittman Jr. had a tough 2025 season as he played through a back fracture and sustained a hamstring injury along the way. Pittman was still the WR26 in fantasy points per game as the Colts' go-to against two high. The back end of his 2025 season was crushed by Daniel Jones' injury. After Week 10, Pittman Jr. surpassed 40 receiving yards in a game only once. In Weeks 1-10, he was the WR9 in fantasy points per game. During that stretch, among 117 qualifying receivers, he was 23rd in target share (21%), 26th in receiving yards per game (58), 33rd in yards per route run (1.90), 31st in first-read share (24.5%), and 15th in first downs per route run (0.114). Unfortunately, the coverage matchup isn't in Pittman Jr.'s favor to kick off the 2026 season. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Atlanta had the fourth-highest single-high rate (59.4%). Last year, in Weeks 1-10 against single-high, Pittman Jr. had only a 20% target-per-route-run rate and 1.45 yards per route run. The matchup on the perimeter is nice, though, if Atlanta's perimeter corners are as bad as they were to close 2025. Pittman Jr. could get into the end zone to save his day, but don't expect a massive stat line. In Weeks 12-18, Atlanta allowed the second-most fantasy points per game and the second-most receiving touchdowns to perimeter wide receivers.
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89.
Harold Fannin Jr.
TE - CLE (at JAC)
Harold Fannin Jr. had a banner rookie season as the TE8 in fantasy points per game. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Fannin was fifth in target share (19.4%), 12th in receiving yards per game (45.7), 12th in yards per route run (1.81), fourth in first-read share (22.3%), and 25th in first downs per route run. I expect Fannin Jr.'s numbers to dip some with more target competition around him this season. I don't expect him to begin 2026 with a bang in Week 1, either. Last year, Jacksonville allowed the sixth-fewest yards per target and the eight-fewest fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends.
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90.
Josh Downs
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
Josh Downs dealt with a hamstring issue to open last season, which could be a reason why he didn't eclipse a 60% snap share until Week 4. Downs' playing time was a rollercoaster the rest of the season, as his snap rate dipped below 60% in five other weeks in the remainder of the season. Originally, Downs was expected to step into an elevated role in 2026 and play more on the perimeter after seeing only 65 routes as a boundary receiver last year. I worry that plan could be scrapped after the signing of Keenan Allen. Downs could easily be in his limited snap slot role again in 2026. Maybe not out of the gate with Alec Pierce getting back up to full speed, but it's still up in the air. Last year, overall, Downs was 19th in separation score and 55th in route win rate, but when you look at him as a perimeter receiver, he drops to 52nd in separation and 84th in route win rate. On a per-route basis, among 109 qualifying receivers, he was 29th in target per route run rate, 66th in yards per route run, and 26th in first downs per route run. I'm not plugging Downs into a lineup in Week 1 with his playing time up in the air. The matchup also isn't a smash one to worry about missing out on. The Ravens should field an improved pass defense this season, but last year their secondary wasn't hopeless against receivers. They allowed the 11th-fewest fantasy points per opportunity and ranked 15th in yards per target.
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91.
Tyler Allgeier
RB - ARI (at LAC)
Tyler Allgeier is a touchdown-dependent flex option for Week 1. Last year, he was the RB45 in fantasy points per game, but with his eight scores last year, he had eight weeks as a top-36 running back and four games as a top-24 option in weekly scoring. Allgeier will be a thorn in Jeremiyah Love's side like he was for Bijan Robinson for a number of seasons. Last year, among 49 qualifying backs, Allgeier was 36th in explosive run rate, 39th in missed tackle rate, and 43rd in yards after contact per attempt. This offseason, the Bolts added Dalvin Tomlinson and Akheem Mesidor to the defensive front, but I don't know if that's enough for their run defense to take a huge leap forward. Last season, the Bolts allowed the eighth-highest explosive run rate, the 11th-highest rushing success rate, and the 13th-most yards before contact per attempt.
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92.
Alec Pierce
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
After missing nearly all of training camp and the entire preseason, I need to see Alec Pierce's practice reports for Week 1 before attempting to project his Week 1 workload or availability. Check back Friday for my update on Pierce.
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93.
Jakobi Meyers
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
Last year, in Weeks 13-18, with Brian Thomas Jr. back in the lineup, Parker Washington doing his thing, and Trevor Lawrence playing with his hair on fire, Jakobi Meyers was the WR28 in fantasy points per game. During that six-game stretch, he was seeing a 22.6% target share and a 26.7% first-read share, producing 54.7 receiving yards per game, 1.62 yards per route run, and 0.094 first downs per route run. Meyers will be a solid WR3/flex at times this season, but that won't include Week 1. Last year, when Tyson Campbell and Denzel Ward were on the field together as full-time players, the Cleveland pass defense was a shutdown unit against perimeter wide receivers. In their eight games together, the Browns' pass defense allowed only 1.43 fantasy points per target and 7.24 yards per target to perimeter wide receivers. Over the entire season, those would have been the third-lowest marks in each category in the NFL. Sit Meyers this week.
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94.
Kyle Monangai
RB - CHI (at CAR)
Kyle Monangai sustained a knee injury during training camp that he is still working his way back from. His status for Week 1 is up in the air. I'll update his status probably Friday, after we have a week full of practice reports to chew on and (hopefully) a clearer picture of his Week 1 availability.
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95.
Wan'Dale Robinson
WR - TEN (vs . NYJ)
Last year, Wan'Dale Robinson had his best season to date, easily, with a true breakout campaign as the WR14 in fantasy points per game. Among 109 qualifying receivers, he ranked 11th in target share (26.8%), 15th in receiving yards per game (63.4), 28th in yards per route run (1.94), and 11th in first-read share (32.9%). A huge change for Robinson was that he wasn't just a checkdown or underneath option anymore, as his aDOT rose to 8.7 and he was 21st among that sample of receivers in deep targets. We have no clue how this Tennessee target hierarchy will shake out at the top between Carnell Tate and Wan'Dale Robinson. Cam Ward's shaky preseason also tossed a wrench in the preseason hype gears, so Robinson can't be considered more than a PPR flex play for Week 1. Robinson has a nice matchup for Week 1, though. Last year, the Jets allowed the sixth-most yards per target to slot receivers while ranking 16th in fantasy points per opportunity. Jarvis Brownlee Jr. (2025: 77.3% catch rate and 108.9 passer rating) isn't a shutdown nickel corner.
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96.
Jalen Coker
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
The Carolina passing attack will flow through Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker this season. Last year, when Coker was at his healthiest (quad injury early in the year) during Weeks 13-19, he was challenging Tetairoa McMillan for the top spot in Carolina's aerial attack. During that stretch, Coker had a 20% target share (McMillan 18.3%), 2.30 yards per route run (McMillan 1.78), four red zone targets (McMillan, one), and a 28.3% first-read share (McMillan 26.1%). In those six games played, Coker finished with at least 14 PPR points four times. Last year, to close the season in Weeks 17-20, Chicago leaned into single high coverage as a pass defense (58.2%). In Weeks 13-19, against single high, Coker had a 21% target-per-route run rate and 2.81 yards per route run (WOW!). Coker is a strong flex for Week 1. Last season, in Weeks 12-18, Chicago allowed the fourth-most yards per target and the fifth-most fantasy points per opportunity to slot receivers.
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97.
Romeo Doubs
WR - NE (at SEA)
Romeo Doubs should be A.J. Brown's running mate this season. Last year, Doubs was the WR43 in fantasy points per game with five weeks in weekly scoring as a top-25 fantasy wideout while having only a 72.8% route share. Last year, among 109 qualifying wide receivers, Doubs was 36th in target per route run rate, 31st in yards per route run, 18th in first downs per route run, and 27th in fantasy points per route run. Also among those 109 receivers, Doubs was 23rd in separation and fifth in route win rate. Last year, Seattle had the sixth-highest rate of two-high (55.9%). Against two high Doubs had a strong 23% target-per-route run rate and 1.86 yards per route run. Doubs should see solid volume in Week 1, but make no mistake..this is a horrible matchup lining up against Devon Witherspoon and Josh Jobe for most of the game. Last year, Seattle allowed the fewest yards per target and the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to perimeter wide receivers.
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98.
Isaiah Likely
TE - NYG (vs . DAL)
Isaiah Likely's 2025 season was crushed by a foot injury that he sustained in the preseason. I can't honestly tell you whether he was fully healthy last season or when that occurred, if so. I'm tossing his 2025 campaign in the trash. So, let's be kind and rewind to 2024. During that season, among 57 qualifying tight ends, Likely ranked 17th in target per route run rate, tenth in yards per route run, and eighth in first downs per route run and fantasy points per route run. After signing a lucrative deal with the Giants this offseason, Likely should be their clear starting tight end and a strong part of their passing game. I expect Likely to open the season as the second option in the passing game behind only Malik Nabers. The Dallas secondary has been overhauled this offseason, but it's worth noting that in Weeks 12-18 last year, this defense allowed the fourth-most yards per target and the fifth-most fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends. Likely could easily be a strong TE1 in Week 1.
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99.
Juwan Johnson
TE - NO (at DET)
Last year, Juwan Johnson finished with a career high in targets, receptions, and receiving yards as the TE11 in fantasy points per game. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Johnson was 13th in target share, seventh in receiving yards per game, 15th in yards per route run, 11th in first-read share, and 23rd in first downs per route run. Johnson could easily post TE1 numbers in Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Detroit ranked 15th in yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity allowed to tight ends.
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100.
Matthew Golden
WR - GB (at MIN)
After all the hype for Matthew Golden last year, he was only a part-time player for Green Bay in his rookie season. He had only five games in which he surpassed a 60% snap share. When he was on the field, he had a 17% target-per-route-run rate, 1.46 yards per route run, and 0.065 first downs per route run. Among 109 qualifying receivers, he was 16th in separation and 67th in route win rate. The separation score is notable, but all of his other metrics and the fact that he had a quiet rookie season leave me unimpressed. Jordan Love will be blitzed consistently in Week 1 by Brian Flores. Love could look Golden's way when under duress after logging an 18% target-per-route run rate and 1.90 yards per route run last year when Love was blitzed. I don't expect Golden to be the first player that Love looks to, but it could lead to a nice flex-worthy stat line for Golden in Week 1. Last year, Minny allowed the second-most yards per target and the third-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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101.
Mark Andrews
TE - BAL (at IND)
Mark Andrews is coming off his worst season in the NFL as the TE23 in fantasy points per game. Last year, Baltimore limited his playing time, as he was 22nd in route share (62.9%, per Fantasy Points Data). I'm expecting that to rebound in 2026 with Isaiah Likely gone, but we still have to see it materialize. Last year, among 59 qualifying tight ends, Andrews was ninth in first-read share, but his yards per route run (41st) and first downs per route run (27th) were nothing to write home about. Andrews could have a nice game in Week 1 that quells some of my concerns about his 2026 season. Last year, Indy allowed the fourth-most yards per target and the 12th-most fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends. Lou Anarumo's defenses have bled out production to tight ends over the years, so this wasn't a one-year isolated incident. I think it transfers over to 2026.
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102.
Travis Kelce
TE - KC (vs . DEN)
Over the last two years, Travis Kelce has been the TE9 and TE7 in fantasy points per game. Travis Kelce's per-route efficiency screams that he's on the back nine of his career. Last year, among 59 qualifying tight ends, Kelce was 19th in yards per route run, 18th in yards after the catch per reception, and 16th in first downs per route run. Last year, Denver was 19th in yards per target versus tight ends while allowing the fourth-fewest fantasy points per opportunity to the position. Kelce should see solid volume in Week 1. I don't think he'll have a monster game, but if he can get into the endzone he could possibly salvage a low-end TE1 outing.
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103.
Stefon Diggs
WR - WAS (at PHI)
Stefon Diggs will be Terry McLaurin's running mate this season. Diggs had a strong 2025 season that proved that he has plenty left in the tank to post a strong fantasy season in 2026. Last year, he was the WR23 in fantasy points per game with only a 65.4% route share (62nd out of 109 qualifying receivers). Among 109 qualifying receivers, he was stellar on a per-route basis, ranking 22nd in target per route run rate (25%), 20th in receiving yards per game (59.6), and eighth in yards per route run (2.53) and first downs per route run (0.127). Among the same sample of receivers, he was also 28th in overall separation score, 18th in separation versus man coverage, 22nd in route win rate against man coverage, and 11th in yards per route run against both man and zone coverages. Last year in Washington's two meetings with Philly, the Eagles utilized two-high with 60.4% of their defensive snaps. Last year, against two high, Diggs had a 26% target per route run rate and 2.24 yards per route run. Those are both stellar numbers, and with the consolidated target tree in Washington, I expect Diggs to see healthy volume in Week 1. I just worry about his ceiling with this tough matchup. Last year, Philly allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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104.
KC Concepcion
WR - CLE (at JAC)
KC Concepcion has the talent to be Cleveland's clear WR1 this season. We'll see if that's how it shakes out this season. Concepcion is a receiver who can threaten a defense at all three levels while also making things happen after the catch with the ball in his hands. In two of his last three collegiate seasons, he ranked top 35 in FBS in YAC per reception (26th, 33rd, per PFF). In 2023, Concepcion was 17th in missed tackles forced among FBS wide receivers. Concepcion won't have easy sledding in his first NFL game, though. Last year, Jacksonville allowed the second-fewest fantasy points per target and the third-fewest yards per target to slot receivers.
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105.
Xavier Worthy
WR - KC (vs . DEN)
Last year, Xavier Worthy finished as the WR54 in fantasy points per game with only one week as a top-24 wide receiver in weekly scoring. Last year, after returning from a shoulder injury (Weeks 4-17), he only had a 15.8% target share, 1.40 yards per route run, 40.9 receiving yards per game, a 19.5% first-read share, 0.058 first downs per route run, and 8.5 PPR points per game. Sit Worthy in Week 1 against a secondary that allowed the second-fewest yards per target and the fewest fantasy points per opportunity to wide receivers last season.
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106.
Tre Tucker
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
Last season, Tre Tucker was the WR45 in fantasy points per game, but his standout performance in Week 3 with 145 receiving yards and three scores is carrying a lot of the water for that fantasy finish. If we take that one game out of the mix, Tucker averaged only 7.5 fantasy points per game with a 16.7% target share, 1.06 yards per route run, 34.4 receiving yards per game, and a 21.2% first-read share. Yeah, I'm not interested in running Tucker out there in Week 1 as a flex play when he easily could be out-targeted by Jalen Nailor, Brock Bowers, Jack Bech, and even Ashton Jeanty. Sit Tucker and let's see what his role is in this new-look Kubiak passing attack for 2026.
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107.
Dalton Kincaid
TE - BUF (at HOU)
Could this be the year? Could this be it? The season that Dalton Kincaid FINALLY is a full-time player in the Buffalo offense? I hope so, but we still have to see if that's what actually happens in 2026. If Dalton Kincaid could get a near full-time route share, he would be a league winner and season-defining player at the tight end position. Last year, Kincaid was a monster on a per-route basis, leading to a TE13 finish in fantasy points per game. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Kincaid ranked FIRST in target per route run rate, yards per route run, separation score, route win rate, first downs per route run, and fantasy points per route run. The problem is that, among the same sample of 54 tight ends, he was 39th in route share (44.2%) behind Michael Mayer. Josh Allen could lean on Kincaid heavily in Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Houston allowed the seventh-most receiving fantasy points per game and the 11th-most fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends.
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108.
Woody Marks
RB - HOU (vs . BUF)
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109.
De'Zhaun Stribling
WR - SF (at LAR)
De'Zhaun Stribling should operate as the third or fourth option in the 49ers' passing attack in Week 1 with Mike Evans and George Kittle playing. I love Stribling's season-long outlook for 2026 because I worry about the rest of the pass catchers on this team, not named Stribling, staying healthy for the entire season, but that doesn't mean that I love Stribling's Week 1 outlook. Stribling had a solid collegiate career, with his skill set fitting what the 49ers want from their receivers. During his final two collegiate seasons, he posted 2.15 and 2.44 yards per route run with 7.3 and 6.7 yards after the catch per reception (17 missed tackles forced across both seasons, per PFF). I'm sitting him in Week 1. I need to see what his role is with all of the other talent around him.
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110.
Khalil Shakir
WR - BUF (at HOU)
At this point in his career, we know who Khalil Shakir is. A low-ceiling WR3/4 or flex play on a weekly basis in PPR formats. Over the last two seasons, he has finished as the WR39 and WR33 in fantasy points per game. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, Shakir was 36th in target share, 55th in receiving yards per game, 41st in yards per route run, 38th in first-read share, and 80th in first downs per route run. This isn't the week to consider flexing Shakir. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Houston allowed the 11th-fewest fantasy points per game to receiving yards and the tenth-fewest fantasy points per opportunity to slot receivers.
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111.
Mike Washington Jr.
RB - LV (vs . MIA)
Mike Washington Jr. could offer nice flex value in Week 1. Ashton Jeanty isn't 100%, and Washington Jr. could see double-digit touches with the ability to break off a long run for a score at any time. He has looked amazing this preseason with an every-down skillset. Washington Jr. tested like an alien during the pre-draft process, leading to his fourth-round draft capital. During his final collegiate season, Washington Jr. broke out, ranking 33rd in yards after contact per attempt and 17th in breakaway rate (per PFF). Last year, the Dolphins allowed the fifth-highest explosive run rate, the most yards after contact per attempt, and the sixth-highest missed tackle rate. Even with the best rose colored glasses, this still has to be viewed as an above-average matchup for the Raiders' ground game.
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112.
Rashid Shaheed
WR - SEA (vs . NE)
Last year, after becoming a Seahawk, Rashid Shaheed had only a 61.9% route share, an 8.8% target share with 20.9 receiving yards per game, 1.05 yards per route run, and a 12.3% first-read share. This type of usage isn't conducive to fantasy success. Yes, could it trend upward in 2026 with a full offseason to learn the ropes? Sure, but that doesn't mean that I'm rushing to plug Shaheed into a flex spot to open the season. Last season, New England utilized single high with 51.8% of their defensive snaps. Against single-high with Seattle, Shaheed posted only an 11% target-per-route run rate and 0.74 yards per route run. Last year, against perimeter wide receivers, New England was 15th in yards per target and 18th in fantasy points per opportunity allowed. Those aren't horrible numbers for Shaheed, but I'm sitting him until we see what his usage looks like for 2026.
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113.
Tyjae Spears
RB - TEN (vs . NYJ)
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114.
Jake Ferguson
TE - DAL (at NYG)
Last year, Jake Ferguson managed his second TE10 finish in fantasy points per game among tight ends in the last three years. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Ferguson was 16th in target share (16%), 20th in receiving yards per game (35.3), 43rd in yards per route run (1.26), 18th in first-read share (17.6%), and 38th in first downs per route run. What fueled his season was red zone targets (second among tight ends behind only Trey McBride) and touchdowns (tied for third-best). I expect Ferguson to be a consistent red zone weapon for Dak Prescott again in 2026. With his touchdown equity alone, Ferguson could be a TE1 in Week 1. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, the Giants allowed the most yards per target and the 14th-most fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends.
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115.
Makai Lemon
WR - PHI (vs . WAS)
Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Chig Okonkwo was 24th in target share, 23rd in receiving yards per game, 28th in yards per route run, and 37th in first downs per route run. Okonkwo has been a per-route metric darling in previous seasons, so with better quarterback play in 2026 tied to Jayden Daniels, I wouldn't be surprised if he recaptures some of that magic. I don't see that starting in Week 1, though. Okonkwo has to face a pass defense that allowed the fewest yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends. Sit Okonkwo. I'm curious what Makai Lemon's role will be out of the gate for Philly in 2026 after missing substantial parts of rookie camp, training camp, and the preseason. Lemon played on the perimeter with 71.4% of his snaps in his limited preseason action, but I doubt that will be the case when he's on the field with DeVonta Smith and Dontayvioin Wicks. Lemon finished a productive collegiate career ranking sixth and 12th in yards per route run, ninth and 50th in missed tackles forced, and 60th and 28th in YAC per reception over the last two seasons (per PFF). I expect Lemon to be the team's starting slot receiver to begin the season, and I wouldn't be surprised if he has a limited snap role if Philly looks to deploy 12 and 21 personnel heavily out of the gate. Lemon could have a solid fantasy day in Week 1, despite the risks that I outlined here. Washington couldn't stop slot receivers last year, allowing the seventh-highest passer rating and the most fantasy points per target to the position. Lemon is a decent flex play for Week 1.
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116.
Deebo Samuel Sr.
WR - SF (at LAR)
Deebo Samuel rejoins the San Francisco 49ers on a one-year deal after a one-year dalliance with the Commanders. Last year, Samuel was the WR29 in fantasy points per game while putting up a varied stat line. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, Samuel was 18th in target share (22.4%), ninth in yards after the catch per reception (6.6), 21st in first-read share (27.3%), and ninth-best in missed tackles forced per reception. Unfortunately, though, among the same sample of receivers, he was also 38th in yards per route run and 53rd in first downs per route run (0.076) while seeing his usual bevy of underneath targets (5.3 aDOT, 103rd out of 109 qualifying receivers). Last year, the Rams utilized zone coverage at the seventh-highest rate (76.4%). Over the last three seasons, against zone, Samuel has had a 23% target-per-route run rate and 2.06 yards per route run. Samuel is a viable PPR flex for Week 1, but the matchup is tough. Last year, the Rams allowed the 14th-fewest yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to receivers.
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117.
Hunter Henry
TE - NE (at SEA)
Last year, Hunter Henry was the TE12 in fantasy points per game while setting a new career high in receiving yards (768) and finishing with the second-most receiving touchdowns in a season in his career (seven). Among 54 qualifying tight ends, he was 15th in target share, 13th in receiving yards per game, 17th in yards per route run, and 14th in first-read share and first downs per route run. I expect Hunter Henry to take a step back in the target pecking order in New England this season with A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs on the depth chart. This opening matchup isn't kind to Henry. Last year, Seattle utilized two high at the sixth-highest rate. Against two high last year, Henry had only a 16% target-per-route-run rate and 1.08 yards per route run. Add on top that Seattle held tight ends to the 14th-fewest yards per target and ranked 15th in fantasy points per opportunity, and Henry is an easy sit this week.
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118.
Jalen Nailor
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
It wouldn't shock me at all if Jalen Nailor steps up as the clear number two option for the Raiders this season behind Brock Bowers through the air. Nailor isn't facing stiff competition from Tre Tucker, Jack Bech, and company. Yes, last year Nailor had only a 10.3% target share, 1.19 yards per route run, and a 10.8% first-read share. None of those metrics will or should get you excited, but when we dig deeper, his per-route numbers are QUITE INTERESTING. Last year, among 109 qualifying receivers, he was 33rd in separation and 51st in route win rate. As a perimeter receiver among the same sample, his numbers look even better (141 routes) as he was sixth-best in separation and 13th in route win rate. If you're struggling in a deep league and have to reach into the Raiders' passing attack for a Week 1 flex play, Nailor would be it for me. Last year, Miami allowed the ninth-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers. Chris Johnson is a talented rookie, but expecting him to be an immediate difference-maker for the Miami secondary is a lot to ask for a rookie. JuJu Brents and Jason Marshall Jr. flanking him don't frighten me at all.
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119.
Adonai Mitchell
WR - NYJ (at TEN)
Last year, after joining the Jets, Adonai Mitchell saw a 23.6% target share and a 30% first-read share, but he did very little with it, producing only 37.6 receiving yards per game and 1.37 yards per route run. This preseason, Mitchell saw only two targets, and he had a 13.0 aDOT. I expect him to be the field stretcher for the Jets' passing attack this season. The Titans overhauled their secondary this offseason, but it's worth noting that last year they allowed the fifth-most deep passing yards per game and the second-highest deep adjusted completion rate. Do I think those stats will be sticky and projectable for 2026? Eh. We'll see. I'm not running Mitchell out there in Week 1 in a fantasy lineup unless we're talking about a deep dynasty league where you're scraping the bottom of the barrel.
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120.
Brenton Strange
TE - JAC (vs . CLE)
Last year, Brenton Strange had a breakout season as the TE17 in fantasy points per game, setting career highs in targets (only in 12 games), receiving yards, yards per reception, and fantasy points per game. Among 54 qualifying tight ends, he was 21st in target share, 14th in receiving yards per game, ninth in yards per route run, 23rd in first-read share, and 11th in first downs per route run. Trevor Lawrence could lean on Strange this week with his perimeter wide receivers staring down tough matchups. Last year, Cleveland allowed the 13th-most yards per target to tight ends while ranking 18th in fantasy points per opportunity given up.
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121.
Kayshon Boutte
WR - HOU (vs . BUF)
Kayshon Boutte should serve as Houston's field stretcher and the wide receiver who is playing in two-wide sets with Nico Collins. Last year, Boutte was the WR47 in fantasy points per game, with five games in weekly fantasy scoring as a top-24 option. Among 109 qualifying receivers, he ranked 48th in separation score and 44th in route win rate. Among that same sample of receivers, he ranked fourth in aDOT (17.5) while drawing a 10.9% target share with 39.4 receiving yards per game, 1.56 yards per route run, a 14% first-read share, and 0.076 first downs per route run. This isn't the week to consider flexing Boutte. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Buffalo allowed the tenth-lowest completion rate and the 11th-lowest passer rating to deep passing.
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122.
Dalton Schultz
TE - HOU (vs . BUF)
Last year, Dalton Schultz was the TE14 in fantasy points per game while ranking 13th in deep targets and 15th in red zone targets among tight ends. Among 54 qualifying tight ends, Schultz was 11th in target share and receiving yards per game, 20th in yards per route run, 16th in first-read share, and 20th in first downs per route run. Sit Dalton Schultz this week. Buffalo was an elite defense again last year versus tight ends. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Buffalo allowed the second-fewest receiving fantasy points per game and the fifth-fewest overall fantasy points per game to tight ends.
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123.
George Kittle
TE - SF (at LAR)
It seems like George Kittle will be ready to rock for Week 1. Now, if he's active, will he play a full-time role for the 49ers? I doubt it, but he could still easily have a 50-60% snap rate and be heavily involved when they are passing and around the goal line. When Kittle was on the field last year, he didn't show any signs of slowing down. Among 54 qualifying tight ends, he ranked fourth in target share (20%) and yards per route run (2.30), third in receiving yards per game (57.1) and first-read share (24.3%), and second in first downs per route run (0.139). Kittle could have another amazing season in 2026 for fantasy, but I'm willing to sit him in Week 1 with the playing time concerns and a tough matchup. Last year, the Rams allowed the third-fewest yards per target and the seventh-fewest fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends.
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124.
Dontayvion Wicks
WR - PHI (vs . WAS)
Dontayvion Wicks has been a separation-score and route-win-rate darling over the last two years, and could finally step into a bigger role this year in Philly. Over the last two years, Wicks has ranked third and 24th in separation score and sixth and seventh in route win rate among all wide receivers with at least 200 routes. Last year, Wicks posted a 21% target-per-route run rate, 1.56 yards per route run, and 0.099 first downs per route run. Among 109 qualifying receivers, Wicks ranked 41st in target-per-route run rate and 25th in first downs per route run. Washington added Rasul Douglas (2025: 56.8% catch rate and 75.2 passer rating) to the perimeter corner mix this offseason. We'll see if he can be a big upgrade to a unit that allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per target and the third-highest passer rating to perimeter wide receivers last season.
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125.
Jerry Jeudy
WR - CLE (at JAC)
Jerry Jeudy is coming off a massively disappointing season. I don't see him erasing the stink of 2025 in Week 1. If you drafted him, he's an automatic sit candidate. I have no faith in Deshaun Watson's ability to get him catchable targets, nor Jeudy's ability to get open. Last year, Jeudy was the WR61 in fantasy points per game with an 18.6% target share, 1.09 yards per route run, 0.056 first downs per route run, and a 25.3% first-read share. Last year, Jacksonville allowed the third-fewest yards per target and the eight-fewest fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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126.
Jalen McMillan
WR - TB (at CIN)
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127.
Denzel Boston
WR - CLE (at JAC)
Denzel Boston was a baller in college. In his final season, he had the fifth-best contested catch rate (min ten contested targets) among FBS wide receivers while also posting 2.44 yards per route run. He finished college with a 79th percentile college dominator and an 86th percentile collegiate target share. The concern about Deshaun Watson's ability to feed him catchable targets is real. I'm not trotting Boston out in lineups in Week 1 because of that concern and the horrible matchup he's staring at. Last year, Jacksonville allowed the third-fewest yards per target and the eight-fewest fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers.
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128.
Keaton Mitchell
RB - LAC (vs . ARI)
Keaton Mitchell will be Omarion Hampton's running mate in the backfield in 2026. We'll still have to see how much usage/volume he'll see on a weekly basis, but he could negate those concerns with his big-play ability as a deep league flex in Week 1. Last season, he had only 68 touches, but he had a 10.2% explosive run rate and a respectable 1.37 yards per route run. Last year, Arizona allowed the third-highest explosive run rate, the fifth-highest rushing success rate, and the 12th-most yards before contact per attempt.
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129.
Brian Robinson Jr.
RB - ATL (at PIT)
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130.
Jauan Jennings
WR - MIN (vs . GB)
After a slow start last season (in Weeks 7-18), Jauan Jennings was the WR21 in fantasy points per game, commanding a 19.5% target share with 46.1 receiving yards per game, 1.67 yards per route run, 0.095 first downs per route run, and a 28.9% first-read share. Those are all decent to strong metrics, but here's the problem. Jennings is no longer with the 49ers. He signed with the Vikings this offseason and profiles as the third or fourth option in the passing attack that is led by Kyler Murray. I have questions about the Vikings' passing volume for 2026 and Murray's performance for Week 1, but Jennings does hold some flex value if Murray surprises. Last year, Green Bay allowed the 14th-most fantasy points per target to slot receivers.
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131.
T.J. Hockenson
TE - MIN (vs . GB)
Last season, T.J. Hockenson was the TE25 in fantasy points per game. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Hockenson was 20th in target share, 26th in receiving yards per game, 44th in yards per route run, 27th in first-read share, and 40th in first downs per route run. I expect Hockenson to have a quiet Week 1 against a pass defense that allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points per opportunity and the second-fewest yards per target to tight ends.
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132.
Devaughn Vele
WR - NO (at DET)
Last season, in his final five games of the season, Devaughn Vele showed signs of life with two top-36 weeks in fantasy scoring (WR7, WR32). During that stretch, he had a 15.9% target share, 1.64 yards per route run, 0.097 first downs per route run, and a 16.2% first-read share. Vele isn't the sexiest name, but in deeper leagues he's a viable flex play for Week 1. Last year, Detroit allowed the 12th-most yards per target and the sixth-most fantasy points per opportunity to slot receivers.
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133.
AJ Barner
TE - SEA (vs . NE)
Last year, AJ Barner was the TE20 in fantasy points per game while finishing as a TE1 in weekly scoring six times. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, he was 27th in target share, 25th in receiving yards per game, 26th in yards per route run, 33rd in first-read share, and 26th in first downs per route run. Last year, he was fifth in total touchdowns among tight ends while also ranking 12th in red zone targets. Barner will have streamable moments in 2026, but this isn't a week where it's likely worth going this direction for your fantasy lineups. Last year, New England allowed the 14th-fewest fantasy points per opportunity while ranking 15th in yards per target permitted to tight ends.
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134.
George Holani
RB - SEA (vs . NE)
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135.
Keenan Allen
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
Keenan Allen should be a valuable part of the Colts' offense in Week 1. Alec Pierce's playing time and effectiveness are up in the air. Outside of Allen and Pierce, the Colts have only Josh Downs and Tyler Warren to lean on through the air. Last year, Allen proved that he still has gas in the tank on multiple levels as the WR36 in fantasy points per game. Among 109 qualifying receivers, he was 54th in overall separation, 14th in overall route win rate, 22nd in slot yards per route run (2.09), and 18th in route win rate as a perimeter wide receiver. Last year, Allen ran 60.5% of his routes as a perimeter wide receiver while drawing a 20.7% target share with 45.7 receiving yards per game, 1.72 yards per route run, a 24.4% first-read share, and 0.108 first downs per route run. The Ravens should field an improved pass defense this season, but last year their secondary wasn't hopeless against receivers. They allowed the 11th-fewest fantasy points per opportunity and ranked 15th in yards per target. Allen should see enough volume in Week 1 to be a decent flex play.
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136.
Chig Okonkwo
TE - WAS (at PHI)
Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Chig Okonkwo was 24th in target share, 23rd in receiving yards per game, 28th in yards per route run, and 37th in first downs per route run. Okonkwo has been a per-route metric darling in previous seasons, so with better quarterback play in 2026 tied to Jayden Daniels, I wouldn't be surprised if he recaptures some of that magic. I don't see that starting in Week 1, though. Okonkwo has to face a pass defense that allowed the fewest yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends. Sit Okonkwo.
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137.
Tank Bigsby
RB - PHI (vs . WAS)
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138.
Dylan Sampson
RB - CLE (at JAC)
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139.
Cooper Kupp
WR - SEA (vs . NE)
Last year, Cooper Kupp was the WR58 in fantasy points per game, drawing a 14.9% target share with 1.53 yards per route run, 37.1 receiving yards per game, and a 17.6% first-read share. Kupp had more than 50 receiving yards in only three regular-season games last season. Kupp ran only 48.6% of his routes last year from the slot, but I expect that number to climb this year with Rashid Shaheed on the team from the jump. Kupp is a sit this week against a secondary that allowed the ninth-fewest yards per target and the 13th-fewest fantasy points per game to slot receivers last year.
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140.
Terrance Ferguson
TE - LAR (vs . SF)
I have no clue what to expect for Terrance Ferguson's Week 1 usage for the Rams. Last year, Ferguson had only a 34.2% route share, a 5.5% target share, a 15% target-per-route run rate, and a 7.6% first-read share. The reports out of camp and during this offseason were that he should see an expanded role in year two, but the Rams can be truthful in that estimation without having a high bar to clear. Last year, among 54 qualifying tight ends, he was 48th in target-per-route-run rate and 32nd in yards per route run. He was essentially their deep threat with a wild 18.3 aDOT. I would have to be desperate in a DEEP league to start Ferguson for Week 1. Last year, the 49ers allowed the fifth-fewest yards per target to tight ends, but they also surrendered the sixth-most receiving touchdowns to the position. Ferguson is likely a touchdown-or-bust dart throw for Week 1.
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141.
Cade Otton
TE - TB (at CIN)
Last season, Cade Otton was the TE24 in fantasy points per game with only three weeks as a TE1 in weekly scoring. Otton had a 15.3% target share, 1.27 yards per route run, and a 14.9% first-read share. He drew only six red zone targets all season (39th among tight ends). He's a viable streaming option for Week 1 against a Cincy defense that was ripped in half by tight ends last year. Last season, Cincy allowed the third-most yards per target and the most fantasy points per game to tight ends.
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142.
Malik Washington
WR - MIA (at LV)
Malik Washington steps into a more prominent role in the Miami passing attack this season, but I don't know if it'll lead to more production. Last year, Washington had only three outings where he finished as a WR3 or better in weekly scoring. On a per-route basis, he had only a 19% target-per-route run rate and 0.95 yards per route run. Maybe I'll be wrong about how his 2026 season unfolds, but I'm not willing to bet on him in a flex spot to open the 2026 season.
|
|
143.
Braelon Allen
RB - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
144.
Greg Dulcich
TE - MIA (at LV)
Greg Dulcich could challenge for the lead in targets for Miami in Week 1. Ok, that might be a tad aggressive, but this receiving depth chart is questionable at best despite my hope for it. Last year, Dulcich was absolutely awesome when on the field. Among 59 qualifying tight ends, he was fifth in target-per-route-run rate (24%), second in yards per route run (2.64) and yards after the catch per reception (7.69), fifth in first downs per route run (0.110), and sixth in fantasy points per route run. Dulcich could flirt with TE1 production in Week 1 against a secondary that was 15th in fantasy points per opportunity allowed last year against tight ends.
|
|
145.
Pat Freiermuth
TE - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
146.
Tre' Harris
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
147.
Ja'Kobi Lane
WR - BAL (at IND)
Ja'Kobi Lane was the talk of training camp and preseason football. He could easily be a late-round dart from fantasy draft season that hits in 2026, with a clear path to targets for a talented receiver behind Zay Flowers. Mark Andrews is a giant question mark, and Rashod Bateman has off-field issues that could lead to a suspension. During his final collegiate season, Lane ranked 52nd in yards per route run and 27th in receiving grade (per PFF). Lane could have a solid role in Week 1, but I'm not running him out there in Week 1 unless I'm in a deep league or dynasty league where I'm lacking better options. Last year, Indy allowed the ninth-fewest yards per target and ranked 15th in fantasy points per opportunity allowed to perimeter wide receivers.
|
|
148.
Jonah Coleman
RB - DEN (at KC)
|
|
149.
Calvin Ridley
WR - TEN (vs . NYJ)
I expect Calvin Ridley to operate as the third option in the passing game for Tennessee this season. If that is the case, the main conversation surrounding Calvin Ridley for Week 1 deep league flex hopes becomes "how many passing game weapons can Cam Ward support?" After a wobbly preseason, it's fair to wonder if Ward can support even one at this point. Calvin Ridley's 2025 season was crushed by a hamstring injury and a broken fibula. Last year, we only got to see him on the field in a full-time capacity in Weeks 1-5. During that sample, Ridley had a 19.5% target share, 54.4 receiving yards per game, 1.89 yards per route run, a 26.7% first-read share, and 0.076 first downs per route run. The outside corner tandem of Brandon Stephens (2025: 67.1% catch rate and 126.4 passer rating) and Nashon Wright (2025: 64.5% catch rate and 98.0 passer rating) for the Jets doesn't strike fear in my heart, but Cam Ward's rough preseason does. I'm avoiding flexing Ridley in Week 1 for most teams, but he's flex-viable with a nice matchup.
|
|
150.
Gunnar Helm
TE - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
151.
Rashod Bateman
WR - BAL (at IND)
Last year, Rashod Bateman fell flat while dealing with an ankle injury, which cost him some games. After his banner 2024, I hoped Bateman would take another step, but unfortunately it didn't happen as he was the WR93 in fantasy points per game. Bateman had only one week inside the top 36 wide receivers in weekly scoring. He had only a 10.5% target share with 0.76 yards per route run and a 10.9% first-read share. Yes, I hope that he could have a bounceback season under new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, but I have to see it before I'll believe it. In the two games Indy had Sauce Gardner available last year, they utilized single high with 64.7% of their defensive snaps. I expect the Colts to be single-high heavy again this season. Last year, against single-high, Bateman had only a 15% target-per-route run rate and 0.82 yards per route run. Sit Bateman this week.
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|
152.
Emmett Johnson
RB - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
153.
Tyrone Tracy Jr.
RB - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
154.
Kimani Vidal
RB - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
155.
Ryan Flournoy
WR - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
156.
Colby Parkinson
TE - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
157.
Justice Hill
RB - BAL (at IND)
|
|
158.
Pat Bryant
WR - DEN (at KC)
|
|
159.
Darnell Mooney
WR - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
160.
Evan Engram
TE - DEN (at KC)
|
|
161.
Oronde Gadsden II
TE - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
162.
Chris Brooks
RB - GB (at MIN)
|
|
163.
Omar Cooper Jr.
WR - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
164.
Samaje Perine
RB - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
165.
Isaac TeSlaa
WR - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
166.
Malachi Fields
WR - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
167.
Kenyon Sadiq
TE - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
168.
David Njoku
TE - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
169.
Jaylin Noel
WR - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
170.
Caleb Douglas
WR - MIA (at LV)
Caleb Douglas could operate as Miami's WR1 in Week 1. Douglas has a standout training camp, filling the timeline weekly with highlight-reel plays. We saw him play only briefly in the preseason, earning two targets on his nine routes while playing on the perimeter on 71.4% of his snaps (per PFF). In his final two seasons in college, he never finished higher than 116th in yards per route run or receiving grade. Douglas could walk away from Week 1 as a solid flex play, but it's tough to depend on him for that production out of the gate. Last year, Las Vegas allowed the eighth-most fantasy points per target to perimeter wide receivers. The outside tandem of Eric Stokes (2025: 55.8% completion rate and 89.1 passer rating) and Darien Porter (2025: 63.2% catch rate and 90.5 passer rating) has some promise, though, so I don't want to sleep on them being quite underrated. In most formats, I'm sitting Douglas in Week 1, but if you're stuck starting him in a DEEP league or dynasty format he could walk away with a nice stat line versus the Raiders.
|
|
171.
Chris Bell
WR - MIA (at LV)
|
|
172.
Ray Davis
RB - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
173.
Tyquan Thornton
WR - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
174.
Ted Hurst III
WR - TB (at CIN)
|
|
175.
Sean Tucker
RB - TB (at CIN)
|
|
176.
Michael Mayer
TE - LV (vs . MIA)
With Brock Bowers out for a few games and sidelined for Week 1, Michael Mayer will step into a bigger role. Last year, he was utilized sparingly with a 44.4% route share, but when he was on the field, he was productive. Last season, among 54 qualifying tight ends, Mayer was tenth in target per route run rate (23%), 23rd in yards per route run (1.57), and 19th in first downs per route run (0.086). Mayer could easily flirt with TE1 production in Week 1 against a defense that last season allowed the ninth-most yards per target and fantasy points per opportunity to tight ends
|
|
177.
Malik Davis
RB - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
178.
Emanuel Wilson
RB - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
179.
Germie Bernard
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
180.
Kaelon Black
RB - SF (at LAR)
|
|
181.
Zachariah Branch
WR - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
182.
Darren Waller
TE - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
183.
Keon Coleman
WR - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
184.
Jaylen Wright
RB - MIA (at LV)
|
|
185.
Troy Franklin
WR - DEN (at KC)
|
|
186.
Kaleb Johnson
RB - GB (at MIN)
|
|
187.
Jake Tonges
TE - SF (at LAR)
|
|
188.
Mike Gesicki
TE - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
189.
Xavier Legette
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
190.
Najee Harris
RB - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
191.
Elic Ayomanor
WR - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
192.
Jack Bech
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
Jack Bech was an afterthought in his rookie season. He only earned a 34% route share, drawing a target on 15% of his routes while producing 1.26 yards per route run. Bech might flash some upside and hope in his second season with a new coaching staff at the controls, but I have to see it first. I'm not rolling him out there in any league in Week 1.
|
|
193.
Andrei Iosivas
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
194.
Travis Hunter
WR,CB - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
195.
Antonio Williams
WR - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
196.
Ty Johnson
RB - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
197.
Marvin Mims Jr.
WR - DEN (at KC)
|
|
198.
Ollie Gordon II
RB - MIA (at LV)
|
|
199.
Nicholas Singleton
RB - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
200.
Kendre Miller
RB - NO (at DET)
|
|
201.
Chimere Dike
WR - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
202.
Kaytron Allen
RB - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
203.
Isaiah Davis
RB - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
204.
Jalen Tolbert
WR - MIA (at LV)
|
|
205.
DeMario Douglas
WR - NE (at SEA)
|
|
206.
Seth McGowan
RB - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
207.
Kendrick Bourne
WR - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
208.
Hollywood Brown
WR - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
209.
KaVontae Turpin
WR - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
210.
Brashard Smith
RB - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
211.
Cyrus Allen
WR - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
212.
Jahan Dotson
WR - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
213.
Demond Claiborne
RB - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
214.
Alvin Kamara
RB - NO (at DET)
|
|
215.
Kyle Williams
WR - NE (at SEA)
|
|
216.
Jordan James
RB - SF (at LAR)
|
|
217.
LeQuint Allen Jr.
RB - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
218.
Devin Singletary
RB - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
219.
Skyler Bell
WR - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
220.
Elijah Sarratt
WR - BAL (at IND)
|
|
221.
DJ Giddens
RB - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
222.
Emari Demercado
RB - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
223.
Bryce Lance
WR - NO (at DET)
With Jordyn Tyson injured to begin the season, I expect Bryce Lance to be in the starting trio of receivers for the Saints. Lance could see a limited role in Week 1 as the team's field stretcher, but he could walk away with a strong stat line. In Lance's final collegiate season, among all FBS/FCS wide receivers with at least 50 targets, he ranked sixth in yards per route run, eighth in yards per reception, and eighth-best in receiving grade. Last year, in Weeks 12-18, Detroit struggled to defend the deep ball, giving up the second-most deep passing yards per game, the sixth-highest passer rating to deep passes, and the third- highest adjusted completion rate to deep passing. Lance is a deep league flex that could pay off handsomely in Week 1.
|
|
224.
Tutu Atwell
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
225.
Audric Estime
RB - NO (at DET)
|
|
226.
Bam Knight
RB - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
227.
Jacob Saylors
RB - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
228.
Corey Kiner
RB - NE (at SEA)
|
|
229.
Eli Heidenreich
RB - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
230.
Darnell Washington
TE - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
231.
Kyle Juszczyk
RB - SF (at LAR)
|
|
232.
Raheim Sanders
RB - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
233.
Tahj Brooks
RB - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
234.
Theo Johnson
TE - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
235.
Jaydon Blue
RB - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
236.
Roschon Johnson
RB - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
237.
Charlie Kolar
TE - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
238.
Josh Jacobs
RB - GB (at MIN)
|
|
239.
Darius Slayton
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
240.
Mason Taylor
TE - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
241.
Jaleel McLaughlin
RB - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
242.
J'Mari Taylor
RB - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
243.
Dylan Laube
RB - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
244.
Jawhar Jordan
RB - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
245.
Mack Hollins
WR - NE (at SEA)
|
|
246.
Will Shipley
RB - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
247.
Ashton Dulin
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
248.
Rasheen Ali
RB - BAL (at IND)
|
|
249.
Xavier Hutchinson
WR - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
250.
Cole Kmet
TE - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
251.
Elijah Arroyo
TE - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
252.
Tez Johnson
WR - TB (at CIN)
|
|
253.
Olamide Zaccheaus
WR - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
254.
Roman Wilson
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
255.
Tyler Higbee
TE - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
256.
Joshua Palmer
WR - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
257.
Noah Gray
TE - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
258.
Dawson Knox
TE - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
259.
Barion Brown
WR - NO (at DET)
|
|
260.
Noah Fant
TE - NO (at DET)
|
|
261.
Treylon Burks
WR - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
262.
Erick All Jr.
TE - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
263.
Kalif Raymond
WR - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
264.
Sione Vaki
RB - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
265.
Devin Neal
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
266.
Odell Beckham Jr.
WR - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
267.
Malik Benson
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
268.
Daniel Bellinger
TE - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
269.
Jarquez Hunter
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
270.
Brenen Thompson
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
271.
Eli Stowers
TE - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
272.
Demarcus Robinson
WR - SF (at LAR)
|
|
273.
Isaiah Bond
WR - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
274.
Eli Raridon
TE - NE (at SEA)
|
|
275.
Zavion Thomas
WR - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
276.
Isaiah Williams
WR - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
277.
Elijah Higgins
TE - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
278.
Ja'Tavion Sanders
TE - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
279.
Josh Oliver
TE - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
280.
Devontez Walker
WR - BAL (at IND)
|
|
281.
Konata Mumpfield
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
282.
Tommy Tremble
TE - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
283.
Oscar Delp
TE - NO (at DET)
|
|
284.
Luke McCaffrey
WR - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
285.
Jordan Whittington
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
286.
Austin Hooper
TE - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
287.
Jonnu Smith
TE - GB (at MIN)
|
|
288.
Drew Sample
TE - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
289.
Kevin Coleman Jr.
WR - MIA (at LV)
|
|
290.
Colbie Young
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
291.
Matt Hibner
TE - BAL (at IND)
|
|
292.
Hunter Luepke
RB - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
293.
Adam Trautman
TE - DEN (at KC)
|
|
294.
Brock Wright
TE - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
295.
AJ Dillon
RB - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
296.
Jahdae Walker
WR - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
297.
Jimmy Horn Jr.
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
298.
John Metchie III
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
299.
Jalen Royals
WR - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
300.
Foster Moreau
TE - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
301.
Xavier Smith
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
302.
Mitchell Evans
TE - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
303.
Will Kacmarek
TE - MIA (at LV)
|
|
304.
Nate Boerkircher
TE - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
305.
Tai Felton
WR - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
306.
Jackson Hawes
TE - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
307.
Luke Schoonmaker
TE - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
308.
Ben Sinnott
TE - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
309.
John Bates
TE - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
310.
Brevyn Spann-Ford
TE - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
311.
Durham Smythe
TE - BAL (at IND)
|
|
312.
Mo Alie-Cox
TE - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
313.
Davis Allen
TE - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
314.
Marlin Klein
TE - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
315.
Tanner Koziol
TE - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
316.
Tay Martin
WR - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
317.
Dyami Brown
WR - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
318.
Skyy Moore
WR - GB (at MIN)
|
|
319.
Josh Whyle
TE - GB (at MIN)
|
|
320.
Jaylin Lane
WR - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
321.
Elijah Moore
WR - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
322.
Bo Melton
DB,WR - GB (at MIN)
|
|
323.
Dohnte Meyers
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
324.
Cade Stover
TE - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
325.
Deion Burks
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
326.
Jonathan Mingo
WR - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
327.
Jeremy Ruckert
TE - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
328.
Payne Durham
TE - TB (at CIN)
|
|
329.
British Brooks
RB - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
330.
Kevin Austin Jr.
WR - NO (at DET)
|
|
331.
Jack Endries
TE - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
332.
Hunter Long
TE - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
333.
CJ Daniels
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
334.
Max Klare
TE - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
335.
Ronnie Rivers
RB - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
336.
Nate Adkins
TE - DEN (at KC)
|
|
337.
Jalen Brooks
WR - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
338.
Jared Wayne
WR - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
339.
Sam Roush
TE - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
340.
Johnny Mundt
TE - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
341.
Alec Ingold
RB - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
342.
Brycen Tremayne
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
343.
Blake Whiteheart
TE - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
344.
Ian Thomas
TE - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
345.
KeAndre Lambert-Smith
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
346.
Ameer Abdullah
RB - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
347.
Tim Patrick
WR - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
348.
Patrick Ricard
RB - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
349.
Luke Farrell
TE - SF (at LAR)
|
|
350.
Malachi Corley
WR - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
351.
Carsen Ryan
TE - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
352.
Josh Cameron
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
353.
Drew Ogletree
TE - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
354.
Lan Larison
RB - NE (at SEA)
|
|
355.
Justin Joly
TE - MIA (at LV)
|
|
356.
Kaden Wetjen
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
357.
Eric Saubert
TE - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
358.
Reggie Gilliam
RB - NE (at SEA)
|
|
359.
Jabari Small
RB - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
360.
Montorie Foster Jr.
WR - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
361.
Ben Skowronek
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
362.
Kylen Granson
TE - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
363.
Charlie Woerner
TE - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
364.
Seydou Traore
TE - MIA (at LV)
|
|
365.
Lil'Jordan Humphrey
WR - DEN (at KC)
|
|
366.
Derius Davis
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
367.
Kene Nwangwu
RB - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
368.
Dareke Young
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
369.
Jared Wiley
TE - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
370.
Chris Blair
WR - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
371.
Laquon Treadwell
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
372.
Kameron Johnson
WR - TB (at CIN)
|
|
373.
Josh Cuevas
TE - BAL (at IND)
|
|
374.
Robert Tonyan
TE - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
375.
LaJohntay Wester
WR - BAL (at IND)
|
|
376.
Tylan Wallace
WR - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
377.
Reggie Virgil
WR - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
378.
Simi Fehoko
WR - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
379.
Max Bredeson
RB,TE - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
380.
Darius Cooper
WR - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
381.
Tyler Conklin
TE - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
382.
J. Michael Sturdivant
WR - GB (at MIN)
|
|
383.
Ko Kieft
TE - TB (at CIN)
|
|
384.
Cameron Latu
TE - NE (at SEA)
|
|
385.
Chris Manhertz
TE - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
386.
Jordan Watkins
WR - SF (at LAR)
|
|
387.
Nikko Remigio
WR - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
388.
Dallen Bentley
TE - DEN (at KC)
|
|
389.
Jam Miller
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
390.
E.J. Jenkins
TE - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
391.
Andrew Beck
RB - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
392.
Trey Benson
RB - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
393.
Tanner Arkin
TE - NE (at SEA)
|
|
394.
Myles Price
WR - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
395.
Ke'Shawn Williams
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
396.
Tyler Badie
RB - DEN (at KC)
|
|
397.
Phil Mafah
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
398.
Arian Smith
WR - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
399.
Jacob Cowing
WR - SF (at LAR)
|
|
400.
Jerome Ford
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
401.
Bauer Sharp
TE - TB (at CIN)
|
|
402.
Mark Redman
TE - GB (at MIN)
|
|
403.
Pierre Strong Jr.
RB - GB (at MIN)
|
|
404.
Devin Duvernay
WR - ARI (at LAC)
|
|
405.
Thomas Fidone II
TE - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
406.
Ryan Miller
WR - MIA (at LV)
|
|
407.
Brevin Jordan
TE - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
408.
David Martin-Robinson
TE - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
409.
Gavin Bartholomew
TE - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
410.
Julius Chestnut
RB - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
411.
Quintin Morris
TE - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
412.
Colson Yankoff
TE - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
413.
Jake Briningstool
TE - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
414.
Carter Runyon
TE - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
415.
Velus Jones Jr.
RB,WR - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
416.
Kareem Hunt
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
417.
Michael Burton
RB - CLE (at JAC)
|
|
418.
Camden Brown
WR - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
419.
Cedric Tillman
WR - NO (at DET)
|
|
420.
Tyler Lockett
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
421.
Connor Heyward
RB,TE - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
422.
Tanner Hudson
TE - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
423.
Jackson Meeks
TE,WR - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
424.
Tyler Goodson
RB - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
425.
DeAndre Hopkins
WR - BAL (at IND)
|
|
426.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine
WR - IND (vs . BAL)
|
|
427.
Ben Yurosek
TE - MIN (vs . GB)
|
|
428.
Tyreek Hill
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
429.
Diontae Johnson
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
430.
Brandin Cooks
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
431.
Gabe Davis
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
432.
Jermaine Burton
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
433.
Frank Gore Jr.
RB - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
434.
Jelani Woods
TE - NYJ (at TEN)
|
|
435.
Dameon Pierce
RB - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
436.
CJ Williams
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
437.
Feleipe Franks
TE - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
438.
Keleki Latu
TE - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
439.
Sincere McCormick
RB - SF (at LAR)
|
|
440.
Cash Jones
RB - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
441.
Raheem Mostert
RB - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
442.
Dominic Richardson
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
443.
Joe Mixon
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
444.
Josh Williams
RB - TB (at CIN)
|
|
445.
Tom Kennedy
WR - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
446.
Dean Connors
RB - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
447.
Jalen Moreno-Cropper
WR - NO (at DET)
|
|
448.
James Winchester
TE - KC (vs . DEN)
|
|
449.
Brady Russell
RB,TE - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
450.
Dalen Cambre
WR - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
451.
EJ Smith
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
452.
Stone Smartt
TE - NO (at DET)
|
|
453.
Michael Trigg
TE - DAL (at NYG)
|
|
454.
Theo Wease Jr.
WR - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
455.
Benjamin Yurosek
TE - FA (BYE)
|
|
456.
Lucky Jackson
WR - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
457.
Joshua Simon
TE - FA (BYE)
|
|
458.
Anthony Miller
TE - FA (BYE)
|
|
459.
Dominic Lovett
WR - DET (vs . NO)
|
|
460.
Nathan Carter
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
461.
Michael Wortham
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
462.
Riley Nowakowski
RB,TE - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
463.
David Moore
WR - CAR (vs . CHI)
|
|
464.
Adam Prentice
RB - DEN (at KC)
|
|
465.
Eric Gray
RB - FA (BYE)
|
|
466.
Ricky White III
WR - SEA (vs . NE)
|
|
467.
Brandon Smith
WR - PIT (vs . ATL)
|
|
468.
Phil Lutz
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
469.
Dante Pettis
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
470.
Brennan Eagles
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
471.
Chris Myarick
TE - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
472.
Mitchell Tinsley
WR - HOU (vs . BUF)
|
|
473.
Dylan Drummond
WR - ATL (at PIT)
|
|
474.
Julian Hill
TE - NE (at SEA)
|
|
475.
Isaiah Hodgins
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
476.
Greg Dortch
WR - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
477.
Jalin Hyatt
WR - NYG (vs . DAL)
|
|
478.
KhaDarel Hodge
WR - SF (at LAR)
|
|
479.
Brayden Willis
TE - SF (at LAR)
|
|
480.
Ty Pezza
TE - BAL (at IND)
|
|
481.
Patrick Herbert
TE - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
482.
Austin Trammell
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
483.
Van Jefferson
WR - WAS (at PHI)
|
|
484.
Zavier Scott
RB - CHI (at CAR)
|
|
485.
Gregory Desrosiers
RB - LAC (vs . ARI)
|
|
486.
Michael Bandy
WR - DEN (at KC)
|
|
487.
Trent Sherfield Sr.
WR - BUF (at HOU)
|
|
488.
Carson Steele
RB - PHI (vs . WAS)
|
|
489.
Dalevon Campbell
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
490.
Tim Jones
WR - JAC (vs . CLE)
|
|
491.
Alex Bachman
WR - LAR (vs . SF)
|
|
492.
Deven Thompkins
WR - LV (vs . MIA)
|
|
493.
Sederrick Cunningham
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
494.
Joel Wilson
TE - TEN (vs . NYJ)
|
|
495.
Sterling Shepard
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
496.
Jordan Moore
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
|
|
497.
Tyler Johnson
WR - FA (BYE)
|
|
498.
Noah Thomas
WR - CIN (vs . TB)
|