Fantasy Football Player Notes

DeVonta Smith enters 2026 positioned to lead the Eagles in targets with A.J. Brown no longer in Philadelphia. The former first-round pick has consistently flashed WR1 upside whenever Brown or Dallas Goedert have missed time, while quietly delivering his third 1,000-yard season in 2025. Smith was extremely efficient last season, posting career highs in yards per route run (3.1) and yards per target (11.9) when aligned out wide. Even with rookie Makai Lemon added to the mix, Smith profiles as the clear focal point of the Eagles' passing attack with top-12 fantasy upside.

Makai Lemon enters the NFL with elite collegiate production and first-round draft capital after the Eagles aggressively traded up to secure the former USC standout. Lemon offers inside-outside versatility and was one of the most efficient perimeter receivers in college football despite being viewed by some as slot-only. The biggest obstacle to immediate fantasy relevance is target competition in Philadelphia, where DeVonta Smith and Dallas Goedert already command significant volume. Still, Lemon's talent and long-term upside make him an intriguing bench stash and rookie breakout candidate if the Eagles improve their passing attack under new OC Sean Mannion (McVay/Shanahan-type offense).