NFL fantasy football news and player signals for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

AJB 📈 [Quoted](

Jayden Higgins suffered an ACL injury, which impacts the Houston Texans' passing attack and fantasy outlook for Stroud and Collins. The source notes the Texans' passing attack looked like it could dominate the league for years to come before this injury.

C.J. Stroud had one of the best rookie seasons ever in 2023, joining Tom Brady and Joe Montana on a list of the only players to ever lead the league in both passing yards per game and touchdown-to-interception ratio, establishing elite baseline production.

Patrick Mahomes is ranked No. 18 in the 2026 NFL Top 100 countdown, 13 spots lower than his ranking from the prior summer, indicating a significant drop in peer-voted valuation.

Derrick Henry is ranked No. 15 in the 2026 NFL Top 100 Players list, the highest-ranked player on the Baltimore Ravens. In 2025, Henry rushed for 1,595 yards and 16 touchdowns, demonstrating elite production that supports his premium ranking.

Tucker Kraft is highlighted as a critical area of discussion in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, with specific focus on tight end positioning and tiebreaker considerations.

Sam LaPorta is highlighted as a critical area of discussion in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, with specific focus on tight end positioning and tiebreaker considerations.

Ladd McConkey is highlighted as a critical area of discussion in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, with specific focus on his draft board positioning and tiebreaker considerations.

Emeka Egbuka is highlighted as a critical area of discussion in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, with specific focus on his draft board positioning and tiebreaker considerations.

Jordyn Tyson is highlighted as a critical area of discussion in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, with specific focus on his draft board positioning and tiebreaker considerations.

Chris Olave is highlighted as a critical area of discussion in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, with specific focus on his draft board positioning and tiebreaker considerations.

Ja'Marr Chase has dropped significantly in 2026 NFL Top 100 rankings, falling outside the top-15 and ranked at No. 16, down twelve spots from prior expectations. The source notes this drop is surprising given Chase's dominance in ESPN receiver rankings, sparking debate over whether the league undervalued him.

Puka Nacua is ranked ahead of Ja'Marr Chase in Hayden Winks' Top 100 PPR rankings, suggesting the source values Nacua's draft position higher than the market consensus on Chase.

Cited as historical parallel to Tuten's situation: electric athlete in camp/practice but limited actual fantasy role due to timeshare and lack of clear path to goal-line/passing-down work. Comments note Tuten 'fits the Zamir White archetype to a tee.'

Invoked as sarcastic comparison to Tuten hype; comment notes Dowdle 'looked like the best RB in history in two real games last season,' highlighting pattern of inflated preseason/practice reports that don't translate to fantasy production.

Currently out with injury but competing for passing-down and goal-line work. Camp reports show him dominating those snaps when healthy. His absence raises questions about whether Tuten will fill the void or if Rodriguez maintains control.

Emerging as primary goal-line back in camp, dominating those snaps over Tuten. Comments describe him as 'plodfather' and note he's taking high-value touchdown opportunities. Viewed as the more likely beneficiary of goal-line work in the Jaguars backfield.

Beat reporter called him an 'absolute star' in joint practice vs. Panthers; community split on significance. Supporters note he had 5 rushing TDs last year, coach Liam Coen stated intent to expand pass-catching opportunities, and he's getting goal-line work in camp. Skeptics argue practice reports are inflated/contactless, point to Chris Rodriguez and LeQuint Allen dominating goal-line and passing-down snaps in camp, and compare him to past busts (Zamir White, Toby Gerhart). ADP rising to 5th round; some worry hype will push him too high. Role appears murky with unclear path to consistent high-value touches.

Courtland Sutton is benefiting from the addition of Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos offense. Bo Nix stated that Waddle's presence allows Sutton to "be better," indicating that the elite receiver's playmaking and attention from defenses will create opportunities for Sutton. The source suggests that Waddle's explosiveness elevates the entire receiving corps.

Quarterback Bo Nix is developing strong chemistry with new receiver Jaylen Waddle in training camp. Nix stated that Waddle is "an elite player" who "makes our room better" and "adds a different level of explosiveness" that allows other receivers like Courtland Sutton to perform better. Head coach Sean Payton indicated there is still significant time for the Nix-Waddle connection to develop before games begin, with good work planned for the upcoming week against Green Bay.

Waddle's daily practice competition against Pat Surtain II, the best cornerback in the NFL, is sharpening his skills and making him a better receiver. The source emphasizes that facing elite competition in training camp will improve Waddle's performance. Waddle demonstrated this benefit by beating Surtain on a 60-yard touchdown pass from Bo Nix during Wednesday practice, showcasing his ability to start and stop quickly—a trait that makes him difficult to defend.

Waddle has joined the Denver Broncos as a new offensive weapon and is developing strong rapport with quarterback Bo Nix in training camp. The source notes that Waddle brings elite playmaking ability and explosiveness to the offense, with the potential to elevate teammates like Courtland Sutton. Head coach Sean Payton stated that Waddle is "coming along really well" and that there's "a lot of time still" for chemistry to develop before games begin. Nix praised Waddle as "an elite player" who "makes our room better" and "adds a different level of explosiveness."

Broncos receiver benefits from the addition of Jaylen Waddle to the offense; Bo Nix stated that Sutton 'can be better' with Waddle on the field, as Waddle's presence and playmaking ability elevates the entire receiving room and creates more opportunities for teammates.

Broncos quarterback developing chemistry with new receiver Jaylen Waddle; connected with Waddle on a 60-yard touchdown on August 19, 2026. Nix praised Waddle as an 'elite player' who 'adds a different level of explosiveness' to the offense and enables other receivers like Courtland Sutton to perform better.

Waddle is developing strong rapport and chemistry with Bo Nix in training camp; Sean Payton noted they have had significant time on task and Waddle is 'coming along really well,' with more development expected before and during the regular season. Nix described Waddle as an 'elite player' who 'adds a different level of explosiveness' to the offense and elevates teammates like Courtland Sutton.

New Broncos receiver competing daily against Pat Surtain II, the best cornerback in the NFL, in training camp; this high-level competition is expected to sharpen Waddle's skills and make him better. Waddle beat Surtain on a 60-yard touchdown reception from Bo Nix on August 19, 2026, demonstrating early chemistry with his quarterback.

SleeperNFL’s “that dude’s cold’ rankings: *just ranking dudes that are cold* 1) Jahmyr Gibbs (he’s cold) 2) Bijan Robinson (he’s cold) 3) Ja’Marr Chase (he’s cold) 4) Amon-Ra St. Brown (he’s cold) 5) Brock Bowers (he’s cold) 6) George Pickens (he’s cold) 7) Tucker Kraft (he’s cold) 8) Caleb Williams (he’s cold) 9) Michael Wilson (he’s cold) 10) Brandon Aubrey (he’s cold)

SleeperNFL’s “that dude’s cold’ rankings: *just ranking dudes that are cold* 1) Jahmyr Gibbs (he’s cold) 2) Bijan Robinson (he’s cold) 3) Ja’Marr Chase (he’s cold) 4) Amon-Ra St. Brown (he’s cold) 5) Brock Bowers (he’s cold) 6) George Pickens (he’s cold) 7) Tucker Kraft (he’s cold) 8) Caleb Williams (he’s cold) 9) Michael Wilson (he’s cold) 10) Brandon Aubrey (he’s cold)

SleeperNFL’s “that dude’s cold’ rankings: *just ranking dudes that are cold* 1) Jahmyr Gibbs (he’s cold) 2) Bijan Robinson (he’s cold) 3) Ja’Marr Chase (he’s cold) 4) Amon-Ra St. Brown (he’s cold) 5) Brock Bowers (he’s cold) 6) George Pickens (he’s cold) 7) Tucker Kraft (he’s cold) 8) Caleb Williams (he’s cold) 9) Michael Wilson (he’s cold) 10) Brandon Aubrey (he’s cold)

Jawan Johnson is available late or undrafted in most home leagues and is recommended as a handcuff/backup option to Tucker Kraft. Given Kraft's potential snap count limitations, Johnson represents significant value as a late-round pick.

Jalen Warren stands out as a notable name in the 61-70 ranking range. He is one of two Steelers in this tier alongside DK Metcalf. The source highlights Warren as a key player to consider in this range.

Makai Lemon is ranked 80th overall in the 2026 PPR rankings.

Brian Thomas Jr. is ranked 77th overall in the 2026 PPR rankings.

Marvin Harrison Jr. is ranked 76th overall in the 2026 PPR rankings.

Jonathan Brooks is ranked 75th overall in the 2026 PPR rankings.

Caleb Williams is ranked 74th overall in the 2026 PPR rankings.

Harold Fannin is ranked 73rd overall in the 2026 PPR rankings.

Trevion Henderson is ranked ahead of Ramondre Stevenson in the 2026 rankings, but the source argues this is incorrect. The source states that people are drafting Henderson ahead of Stevenson and that this ranking order 'has to be flipped,' indicating Henderson is overvalued relative to Stevenson.

Ramondre Stevenson is ranked RB 27 in the 2026 rankings, down from RB 21 last year. The source argues he is undervalued and should be ranked closer to Jalen Warren and Jadarian Bryce. Additionally, the Patriots' run blocking is expected to improve significantly in 2026 after being poor for the first eight games of last season.

Tucker Kraft is practicing and ranked 64th overall. However, the source cautions that he may be on a snap count or pitch count, and recommends pairing him with backup tight end Jawan Johnson in drafts. Johnson is available late or undrafted in most home leagues.

Sam Laporta is projected to have a strong 2026 season. In full PPR scoring, he is ranked ahead of quarterbacks (around 61-70 range), with the source expecting him to catch approximately 70 passes. The source cites Drew Petsing's involvement as a factor supporting this projection.

DK Metcalf is ranked well above ADP in the 2026 rankings. The source notes Pittsburgh's offensive line is solid and new offensive coordinator McCarthy employs more pace and passing volume than the Steelers' recent scheme, potentially offering a discount relative to his ranking. However, the source is not actively seeking to draft him.

Ranked 58th in full PPR top 100.

Ranked 57th in full PPR top 100.

Ranked 55th in full PPR; the Rams wanted to trade him away, similar to past situations with Cooper Cup and Allen Robinson, suggesting Sean McVay may be seeing concerning things; finished WR10 last year in full PPR but 75% of that production came from red zone touchdowns, which is unsustainable; dropped 20 spots from last year's finish, reflecting regression concerns.

Limps off and has tightness at every single practice, raising concern about durability and availability heading into the season.

Limped off practice holding his groin during 11-on-11 activity in August; injury timing raises concern given the preseason injury landscape.

Ranked 52nd in full PPR, behind Jamison Williams.

Ranked 51st in full PPR, ahead of Terry McLaurin, Mike Evans, and DeVante Adams; the Lions offense is expected to go 'absolutely crazy out of necessity,' supporting the elevated ranking despite Williams not being a traditional PPR specialist.

Ranked 50th in full PPR; going 69th in home links; described as one of the favorite clicks on the board, indicating strong value at current ADP.

Ranked 49th in full PPR rankings.

Ranked ahead of DeAndre Swift; moved down half a round from initial ranking; finished RB10 in full PPR last year despite not being the starter in week one; caught 3 passes per game last year; showed sharp cutting and running ability in preseason despite coming off injury, appearing ahead of schedule and on pace to hold down the role.

Harris has a history with Greg Roman, who was the de facto run game coordinator; the Giants' preseason blocking and usage patterns (Malik Neighbors, Patrick Ricard, Malachi Fields) suggest the team will run the football heavily; beat writers reported the Giants pursued multiple running backs (Ken Walker, H, Jeremiah Love) but didn't trade, leaving Harris positioned to hold the role despite needing to get in game shape.

The Najee Harris signing impacts Devin Singletary's role, with the source expressing uncertainty about the Giants' trust in Singletary and Tracy as primary running backs.

The source states Tyrone Tracy should not be drafted at this point, with the Najee Harris signing impacting Tracy's role more significantly than Scadaboo's. The Giants' aggressive run-game scheme and fullback usage further diminish Tracy's opportunity.

The source moved Najee Harris ahead of Tyrone Tracy but expresses skepticism about his future production, noting he's already averaging 3+ yards per carry and is coming off injuries. Harris is viewed as insurance for the Giants' running back room rather than a primary option, with the team's aggressive run-game scheme and fullback usage suggesting limited opportunity for Harris.

Ranked 47th overall in the rankings.

Ranked 46th overall, nearly 30 spots above ADP and 17 spots ahead of consensus rankings. The source and co-host are aligned on Parker Washington as the Jaguars' wide receiver one, positioning him as a significant value play at his draft cost.

Swift is going 49th in PPR leagues but ranked 53rd in consensus rankings, indicating a soft spot in draft positioning where he may be slightly overvalued relative to consensus.

Odunze is ranked 45th overall but is going 61st in home leagues and 56th in consensus rankings, indicating significant undervaluation in the market relative to the source's assessment.

Swift is ranked 44th and going 49th in PPR leagues (53rd in consensus), suggesting he is being drafted at his floor; source credits the Bears' specialized rushing scheme and Swift's improved physical aggression last year, noting that if something happens to Khalil Mack, Swift could have significantly more upside and potentially rival Breece Hall or Jaylen Warren in value.

Mitchell narrowly missed the top 100 rankings but is positioned as the primary pathway into the Chargers offense this season; source identifies him as a key value target given concerns about the team's offensive line injuries and rotation patterns.

Ranked 27th overall in PPR. No specific analysis provided in transcript excerpt.

Ranked 26th overall in PPR. No specific analysis provided in transcript excerpt.

Ranked 33rd overall in PPR, drafted 43rd in home leagues; source sees 10-spot undervaluation. Beginning week 15, Bears played over half offensive snaps with two-plus tight ends on field in five of final six games (vs. once in first 13 games). In two-plus TE sets, Loveland's yards per route run is 'outrageous'; with Sam Rausch, posted 4.66 yards per route run and 53% of team's market share in those environments. Last four games including playoffs: 22, 25, 24, and 10 full PPR points per game—'impossible to do' at tight end. At 21 years old, source projects him as future All-Pro, 'next Travis Kelce.' Source is bullish on his trajectory and role expansion.

Ranked 32nd overall in PPR. No specific analysis provided in transcript excerpt.

Ranked 31st overall in PPR. No specific analysis provided in transcript excerpt.

Ranked 28th overall in PPR. Source groups him with Waddle and Smith as receivers who can catch 100+ passes; Panthers' weak depth on paper forces more passing, positioning T-Mac as a slot-heavy reception target. Source feels good about this group's 100-catch upside.

Ranked 30th overall in PPR, one spot below Jalen Waddle. Source expects Smith to get the ball more than before but sees lower ceiling for 100+ receptions compared to Waddle in full PPR; source notes he'd probably rank Smith ahead in half-PPR due to different path to production. Smith's upside is harder to bank on in full PPR format.

Ranked 29th overall in PPR, drafted 48th in home leagues; source sees significant undervaluation. Back at practice after offseason injury, burnt Pat Surtain for 60-yard TD in full pads. Dolphins throw most screens in football under Bo Nix and Sean Payton; Waddle caught 104 passes as rookie for proven PPR upside. Since 2022, highest EPA per target in NFL when Tua throws; offensive line is strong. Source projects 220+ additional routes compared to 2024 (442 routes vs. Cortland Sutton's 664), positioning him for 100+ receptions. Source believes he can be a second-round pick next season and sees him ahead of DeVonta Smith in PPR due to reception upside.

Ranked 29th in PPR rankings but drafted 48th overall in home league PPR leagues, indicating significant ADP discount relative to ranking.

Ranked 28th overall in PPR rankings.

Ranked 27th overall in PPR rankings.

Ranked 26th overall in PPR rankings.

Expected to play a limited role similar to LaQuint Allen in the Chargers backfield; minimal fantasy impact.

Expected to receive some involvement in the Chargers backfield alongside Amarion Hampton.

Ranked 16th among running backs in PPR leagues despite speaker ranking running backs high; consensus aligns with this range; dealing with an injury; Chargers lost center Tyler Biotish and promoted second-round pick Jake Slaughter to center, a pivotal position in Mike McDaniel's rushing scheme; potential for superstar production but also room for improvement; Keaton Mitchell and Kamani Vidal expected to receive some involvement.

Ranked wide receiver 2 for the Saints; noted as needing development work.

Expected to return after the bye week in week eight with a two-month timeline from injury; unlikely to play a full complement of snaps immediately upon return based on team's cautious approach to his recovery.

Ranked inside the top 10 wide receivers due to expected seven-game window with Jordan Thomas sidelined post-injury; wide receiver 8 in team target percentage and wide receiver 4 in air yards last year; kept at bottom of tier due to injury history (blood clots, concussions, soft tissue injuries) and Tyler Shuck dependency, but tape and production support the high ranking.

Expected to return after the bye week (week 8) for the Saints; his absence gives Chris Olave an extended solo window through the first seven games.

Expected to be the actual number two wide receiver on the Texans; will not be a primary target earner compared to Nico Collins.

Clearly the number two target on the Texans team behind Nico Collins; will operate in a team with multiple two-WR and three-TE sets.

Benefited from Rashid Shaheed trade last season; expected to have full first seven games without Jordan Tyson (who returns after bye in week 8), with MetLife turf in week 6 and France game in week 7 before the bye.

Ranked 24th overall, going 28th in home PPR leagues; was fifth in targets per game and WR6-7 in usage in full PPR last year; expected to have full seven games without Jordan Tyson (returning after bye in week 8), giving him extended solo window.

Expected to command 30%+ target share this season; Jalen Knowles returning from non-contact injury but viewed as slot-only player; Dalton Schultz is number two target, Xavier Hutchinson is number two WR; Collins will be the primary downfield threat with no other explosive options on the team.

Ranked as wide receiver seven overall, ahead of Brock Bowers, Drake London, and others; speaker believes he could be top-10 by week one. Last year he was 26th in red zone production despite eighth-best opportunity (14 end zone targets, 4 TDs), suggesting positive regression potential.

Ranked lower than Nico Collins in the source's rankings. The source has Nico Collins ahead of Brock Bowers, suggesting the source prefers Collins' upside and role clarity.

The source is not sure if Bucky Irving could actually average 17 fantasy points per game, suggesting skepticism about reaching elite running back production levels.

The source is not sure if Quinshon Judkins could actually average 17 fantasy points per game, suggesting skepticism about reaching elite running back production levels.

The source mentions DJ Moore as a wide receiver who could have a crazy season, suggesting breakout or elevated production potential.

Mentioned as one of the wide receivers the source can envision averaging 14-16 PPR points per game if he stays healthy, suggesting conditional solid floor and mid-tier production expectations.

Mentioned as one of the wide receivers the source can envision averaging 14-16 PPR points per game, suggesting solid floor and mid-tier production expectations.

Still on the Texans roster but not positioned as a primary receiving option following Jalen Higgins' season-ending ACL injury.

Still being ramped up in the Texans offense following Jalen Higgins' season-ending ACL injury. Not yet a primary receiving option despite the vacancy created by Higgins' absence.

Moved up to 16th overall and ranked as wide receiver seven by the source. The source believes Nico Collins can be placed inside the top five wide receivers just by watching the games; he's ranked ahead of Brock Bowers and Drake London. With Jalen Higgins out for the season with a torn ACL, Collins becomes the Texans' clear top receiving option with no other viable alternatives (Jalen Noel is a pure slot player returning from injury, Tank Dell is being ramped up, Xavier Hutchinson is still on roster but not a primary option).

Ranked 22nd in the source's PPR rankings, though he's 12th in consensus PPR rankings, suggesting the source has him lower than the broader market.

Ranked 21st in the source's PPR rankings.

The source believes it's harder for Drake London to reach wide receiver three production than for running backs like Devon Henry, Ken Walker, Saquon Barkley, Chase Brown, and James Cook to reach running back three status. There are more wide receivers capable of averaging 14-16 PPR points per game than elite running backs capable of averaging 17+ PPR points.

Averaged 16.8 full PPR points per game last year, which was basically exactly what Derek Henry did; ranked 17th in home PPR leagues but 10th overall in full PPR consensus rankings. The source notes concerns about the entire Falcons offense output with new coordinator and depth pieces, but believes London's floor is pretty high because of how he operates.

Ranked after running backs in full PPR (Saquon Barkley doesn't specify exact rank in this excerpt); consensus rankings have him 10th overall in full PPR; home leagues have him 17th; averaged 16.8 full PPR points per game last year.

Ranked 17th overall in full PPR; consensus has him 25th, home leagues 29th; Saquon Barkley getting 'more bullish by the week on his availability for week one'; if healthy week one, likely fully healthy by week six; could look like round-one player by season's end; Giants depth chart not pretty, positioning him for potential 36% target share if Malachi Fields is WR2; Saquon Barkley would rank him 'right next to CD' if not for injury.

Ranked 16th overall in full PPR (matching consensus); Saquon Barkley moved him up in full PPR because elite tight ends with high target shares are more valuable in PPR than touchdown-dependent options like Mark Andrews; 'as long as the knee checks out, he's going to dominate'; Saquon Barkley hopes not to see concerning tape on knee during training camp.

Ranked 15th overall in full PPR; new offensive coordinator may increase passing work and goal-line reps; both Eagles and Bengals use tush push, creating potential upside; Saquon Barkley feels good about him alongside Saquon Barkley and Chase Brown.

Ranked 14th overall in full PPR; new offensive coordinator may increase passing work and goal-line reps; Saquon Barkley feels good about him when Joe Burrow is healthy; grouped with Saquon Barkley and James Cook as running backs with upside from new offensive schemes.

Ranked 13th overall in full PPR; consensus rankings have him 26th overall in PPR, but he's drafted 14th in home leagues; Saquon Barkley notes he had him 9th last year when other platforms had him 2nd, and people using those PPR rankings did not end up with him in drafts; new offensive coordinator may increase passing work and goal-line reps; Saquon Barkley prefers running backs in this tier over wide receivers due to scarcity.

Ranked 12th overall in full PPR; has shown more receiving work than early in his career and more so last season; Saquon Barkley loves him at 12th overall despite going 19th in home PPR leagues.

Ranked 11th overall in full PPR; Saquon Barkley notes almost all of his receptions last year were schemed-up passes (swing passes, screen passes, Texas routes, escort screens) rather than check-downs, suggesting new OC Bobby Slocke will continue this approach; averaged 20.1 full PPR points per game last year with room to fall and still pay off; gets drafted around 18th overall.

Ranked 9th overall in full PPR (cemented as top-12 all season); expert consensus has him 14th-16th, with Matt Harmon and Kevin O'Connor ranking him outside round one in half PPR; Saquon Barkley argues Vikings will be pass-heavy under KOC with Kyler Murray healthy; owned WR4 in target share and WR5 in air yards last year despite QB issues; averaged 100+ receiving yards per game excluding Josh Dobbs/Jalen Hall games; positioned as reduced-price round-one player.

Ranked 9th overall in full PPR; Saquon Barkley has him flipped with CeeDee Lamb in half PPR but prefers current full PPR ranking; new offensive coordinator may increase passing work and goal-line reps; both Colts and Eagles use tush push, creating potential upside.

Ranked 8th overall in full PPR; grouped with Christian McCaffrey in tier of players capable of crushing; Saquon Barkley notes you can make case for flipping him with Jonathan Taylor but prefers current ranking.

Ranked 7th overall in full PPR; Saquon Barkley holding firm despite recent absence/tightness concerns because moving him down sacrifices 'league winning ability'; catches significantly more passes than Jonathan Taylor, justifying rank above him; was best fantasy asset last year and played all 17 games despite preseason red flags.

Ranked 6th overall in full PPR; was WR2 in full PPR last year with 20.6 PPR points per game (3.4 less than Puka Nakua); new coordinator increases route participation and targets per route run (league-leading last year), positioning him to finish as WR1 this season; grouped in elite tier capable of crushing.

Ranked 4th overall in full PPR; grouped in elite tier with Gibbs, Puka, and Jamar Chase as players capable of 'beyond ludicrous seasons'; positioned to crush alongside Amon Ross St. Brown and JSN.

Ranked 3rd overall in full PPR; expert consensus has him 1st, but Saquon Barkley ranks Puka Nakua ahead due to Puka's superior PPR scoring (24 vs. lower) and potential red zone upside; Jamar had 'quiet season for him' last year but dominates when healthy with healthy QB.

Ranked 2nd overall in full PPR despite minor psoas injury; averaged 24 full PPR points per game last year (3.4 more than WR2 JSN); positioned as potential all-time season candidate if he gains red zone role; Saquon Barkley prefers him over Jamar Chase in full PPR and expects him healthy by draft time.

JA’KOBI LANE 🔥

Kendre Miller is listed as a veteran backup running back behind Kamara and Etienne on the Saints depth chart. With Kamara sidelined by injury and Etienne expected to handle the bulk of carries, Miller remains in a reserve role.

Ty Chandler is listed as a veteran backup running back behind Kamara and Etienne on the Saints depth chart. With Kamara sidelined by injury and Etienne expected to handle the bulk of carries, Chandler remains in a reserve role.

With Kamara sidelined by MCL sprain for at least one month, Etienne would likely see the bulk of the carries for the Saints. Etienne signed a four-year, $52 million deal this offseason after rushing for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns last year for Jacksonville, positioning him as the primary back in New Orleans' offense during Kamara's absence.

Kamara suffered an MCL sprain during a joint practice with the Cowboys on Tuesday and is expected to miss at least one month. He ended up under a pile of players after trying to execute a run play and exited practice without returning. With the Saints opening the regular season on Sept. 13 against the Lions, Kamara would miss at least the first game of the season if the one-month timeline holds.

Here’s what you need to know about the Houston Texans wide receiver room after Jayden Higgins’ season-ending injury in practice 😔

Justin Jefferson had 91 of his 141 targets come from Max Brosmer and JJ McCarthy last season and STILL posted over 1000 receiving yards. Just fit the guy for a gold jacket right now. Case closed. There's nothing left to see.

Justin Jefferson had 91 of his 141 targets come from Max Brosmer and JJ McCarthy last season and STILL posted over 1000 receiving yards. Just fit the guy for a gold jacket right now. Case closed. There's nothing left to see.

Ron Stewart identifies Luther Burden III as a breakout candidate, moving him ahead of Jaylen Waddle in the rankings.

Parker Washington is a mystery box heading into his fourth season, but he benefits from being in a top-10 pass attempt offense, with the source projecting a potential step forward to 16 points per game.

The source acknowledges the potential for a year-three breakout for Rome Odunze, though remains skeptical about him reaching the 20+ points per game threshold.

Christian Watson is unlikely to reach 20+ points per game because his 20% target share is insufficient for that level of production.

Jameson Williams is a fun player, but he is unlikely to reach 20+ points per game due to his 18.3% target share while playing alongside Amon-Ra St. Brown.

While Mike Evans hitting 16+ points per game is within his range of outcomes, reaching 20+ points per game in his 13th season is highly unlikely given historical data for aging wide receivers.

Davante Adams is unlikely to hit 20+ points per game in his 13th season, as historical data shows even elite veterans like Chris Carter, Larry Fitzgerald, and Jerry Rice struggled to exceed 18 points per game at that stage of their careers.

DJ Moore is a recommended target who could see increased volume under new head coach Joe Brady; if the offense leans into Josh Allen and increases pass attempts, Moore could replicate Stefon Diggs' 2020 breakout season. He is being moved up to a tier with elite receivers as a round five pick with 20+ points per game upside.

Terry McLaurin is unlikely to reach 20+ points per game in his eighth season, especially with Stefon Diggs joining the team; he has not exceeded 16 points per game in the last three years.

Jalen McMillan has 16+ points per game upside in his second year, citing his 23% target share and an offense that ranks in the top 20 for scoring and pass attempts; he previously showed 20+ point potential during a five-game stretch last season.

Jermaine Burton has a high raw ceiling in the fourth round with 16+ points per game upside; while his target share is 21.7%, he plays in an offense projected to be 10th in scoring, and his efficiency as a target hog on a small sample could translate to a full route share. Stewart notes year-two players like Burton face historical hurdles for 20+ PPG production.

While Ron Stewart is skeptical of Emeka Egbuka reaching 20+ PPG in his second year due to historical trends for non-elite rookie producers, he still identifies Egbuka as a breakout candidate and has moved him ahead of Jaylen Waddle in his rankings.

Ron Stewart highlights Ladd McConkey as a year-three breakout candidate, noting his 24.5% target share as a rookie and the potential for him to ascend to a 28-29% share. Stewart has moved McConkey ahead of Jaylen Waddle in his rankings.

Ron Stewart identifies Garrett Wilson as a top pick with a high floor (14.8 PPG) and ceiling (18.5 PPG). Wilson's potential to reach 20+ PPG is tied to his ability to command a 30% target share and the Jets' offense improving from bottom-five status. Stewart considers him a strong value in round four.

Ron Stewart identifies A.J. Brown as a top round-two pick with 20+ PPG potential, arguing the model's 24.7% target share projection is too low given Brown's history of 29-34% target shares and the potential for the Patriots' offense to play faster under Drake Maye.

Ron Stewart argues Jaylen Waddle has more upside than current projections suggest, despite a 21% target share, citing a 29% targets-per-route-run rate when Tyreek Hill is off the field and high team pass volume; however, Stewart is moving Waddle down in rankings behind breakout candidates like Ladd McConkey, Emeka Egbuka, and Luther Burden.

Ron Stewart expresses confidence that Tee Higgins lacks 20+ point-per-game upside due to a 19.1% target share when Ja'Marr Chase is active. However, he remains a strong fantasy pick who could replicate his 18.5 PPG season.

Ron Stewart acknowledges the model likes George Pickens' ceiling, but remains skeptical of him hitting 20+ PPG because his 21.7% target share is likely capped by CeeDee Lamb's presence. Stewart notes that no pair of teammates has historically both hit 20+ PPG, though he still considers Pickens a strong pick at the 2-3 turn.

Ron Stewart expresses skepticism regarding Rashee Rice's high ceiling projection, labeling him a 'PPR scam' due to concerns about his durability, off-field issues, and a shallow 5.1 A-DOT profile. Despite the model favoring his role in a top-12 offense, Stewart doubts the team will continue to funnel the offense through Rice, especially with competition for screen targets from Kenneth Walker, Xavier Worthy, and Cyrus Allen.

Ron Stewart highlights DeVonta Smith as a priority round three wide receiver and a potential target hog who could outperform his baseline projections. Smith has historically commanded 30% target shares when A.J. Brown is absent. While touchdown regression is a concern due to the Eagles' reliance on Saquon Barkley and the 'tush push' in the red zone, Smith has the upside to reach 10 touchdowns if he maintains a high target share.

Ron Stewart views Zay Flowers as a priority round three value who could flirt with 20+ points per game, though he faces significant hurdles including low passing volume (31st in pass attempts) and historical red zone usage issues with Lamar Jackson. While he lacks the 16+ PPG track record of other breakout candidates, Stewart believes he can outproduce his ADP if he improves his red zone chemistry with Jackson under a new offensive coordinator.

Ron Stewart ranks Justin Jefferson as his 12th overall player, viewing him as a strong 1-2 turn target with clear 20+ PPG upside. While Stewart has moved CeeDee Lamb ahead of him due to superior median and ceiling projections, Jefferson remains a high-end draft pick.

Ron Stewart identifies Chris Olave as a breakout candidate for 20+ points per game, citing his consistent target-earning ability and the potential for an uptempo offense. The primary catalyst is QB Tyler Shuck potentially taking a year-two leap similar to Sam Darnold. Olave, who previously hit 16.8 PPG, is being vaulted up to the round two-three turn tier, with Stewart ranking him alongside receivers like Nico Collins and George Pickens.

Ron Stewart notes that Malik Nabers' 2026 outlook is tempered by his recovery from a torn ACL and a Giants offense projected to rank outside the top 20 in both points scored and pass attempts. While Nabers led the NFL with a 34.9% target share as a rookie, Stewart cautions that reaching a 20+ point-per-game ceiling in this environment would require a massive 34-35% target share. Despite these concerns, he remains a viable round two-three turn target if he improves efficiency on his high volume.

Ron Stewart views Nico Collins as a strong third-round target, noting that his target share could climb from a projected 23.9% to 26-27% due to injuries in the Texans' receiving corps, including Jaden Higgins' ACL tear and health concerns for Tank Dell and Jaylen Null. This increased volume could allow Collins to flirt with 20+ PPG.

Ron Stewart identifies Drake London as a high-floor pick rather than a high-ceiling one. While London has a projected 16.3 PPG, his ceiling projection of 20.3 is only marginally higher than AJ Brown's, suggesting limited explosive upside in an offense projected to be 25th in scoring.

Ron Stewart argues that the 24.7% target share projection for AJ Brown is too low, noting that Brown has consistently commanded target shares between 29.5% and 34.4% over the last three seasons. Stewart believes Brown's move to the Patriots, combined with a shift toward an uptempo, no-huddle offense under Drake Maye, creates significant upside that could push his production toward 20+ PPG.

DeAndre Hopkins is highlighted as a historical example of a year-three breakout who exceeded his environment, hitting a new level of production even while playing in an offense that ranked in the bottom 20 in points scored.

Ron Stewart identifies Ja'Marr Chase as his WR1 overall, citing a 25+ PPG ceiling, a 28.1% projected target share, and an offense projected to be top-five in points scored. Chase is considered a no-brainer round one pick and one of the few receivers who satisfies the criteria for a 20+ PPG ceiling based on historical data.

Ron Stewart ranks CeeDee Lamb as his 11th overall player, making him a priority target at the 1-2 turn. Stewart moved Lamb ahead of Justin Jefferson due to superior median and ceiling projections, noting Lamb's proven 23.7 PPG history and potential to reach a 27% target share. Lamb is also identified as one of the few wide receivers who currently satisfies the criteria for a 20+ point per game ceiling.

Amon-Ra St. Brown is identified as one of the few wide receivers who satisfies the criteria for a 20+ PPG ceiling. Ron Stewart notes that St. Brown and Jaxon Smith-Njigba are extremely close in projections, with St. Brown beating JSN in some metrics while JSN leads in others; Stewart advises against forcing a preference between the two.

Ron Stewart notes that the current NFL trend toward heavy personnel packages (12 and 13 personnel) is negatively impacting slot-only receivers like Khalil Shakir.

Ron Stewart cites Cooper Kupp's 2021 season as the historical gold standard for slot receiver success, driven by high slot target volume and mismatches against linebackers and safeties. His 2021 season is used as the model for a 20+ point per game ceiling, driven by a high target share within an uptempo, high-scoring offense.

Deebo Samuel is cited as a historical example of a player who broke out in his third career year, having been found in the eighth round of 2021 drafts with a previous high of 12.5 PPG before his breakout.

Ron Stewart identifies Josh Jacobs as a running back option typically found in the fifth round of fantasy drafts, using him as a data point for expected production in that range.

Ron Stewart categorizes Jonathan Taylor as a legendary, high-end running back producer based on his 2025 performance.

Ron Stewart classifies Bijan Robinson as a legendary, high-end running back producer whose fantasy impact is comparable to elite wide receivers due to positional scarcity.

Ron Stewart identifies Puka Nacua as a critical fantasy championship roster staple, noting he was one of only two wide receivers to appear on 25% or more of ESPN championship rosters in 2025 while averaging 23.4 points per game. He is also one of the few wide receivers who currently satisfies the criteria for a 20+ point per game ceiling based on historical data.

Ron Stewart identifies Jaxon Smith-Njigba as a top-tier wide receiver and fantasy championship roster staple, noting he averaged 21.2 points per game in 2025. Stewart uses him as a case study for the year-three breakout model, noting that despite a previous high of 14.9 points per game, year-three players can make massive leaps. Stewart prefers Jaxon Smith-Njigba over Amon-Ra St. Brown, highlighting that JSN has the highest projected target share on his list within a top-10 offense.

Ron Stewart highlights Christian McCaffrey as the benchmark for elite running back production, noting he recorded over 415 PPR points in 2025, the highest total for a running back in the 17-game era. He is also used as a benchmark for understanding the impact a high-level player has over a replacement-level wide receiver.

Backup quarterback Fernando Mendoza connected with tight end Brock Bowers on a 25-yard reception that was described as 'the Raiders' highlight of the day.' The source notes that on this play, Mendoza was able to push the ball downfield after the offensive line won its battle up front, giving him enough time to execute the throw. This suggests Mendoza can be effective when given adequate protection and proper route execution.

Running back Ashton Jeanty was photographed working out during the joint practice between the Raiders and Texans in Houston. The source indicates that the Raiders' running game struggled to generate consistent movement against Houston's front, suggesting Jeanty may face challenges in the preseason game and regular season against strong defensive fronts.

Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins acknowledged the difficulty of facing Houston's pass rush, stating 'You feel their rush. They do a great job pursuing and playing fast.' The source indicates that pass protection was a significant issue for the Raiders' offensive line against the Texans' front led by Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, making it harder for Cousins to operate effectively downfield.

Wide receiver Jack Bech struggled to consistently create separation during the joint practice against Houston on Tuesday. The source notes that Bech and other Raiders receivers (Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor) failed to generate the space their quarterbacks needed against a talented Texans secondary, which could factor into head coach Klint Kubiak's decision to play offensive starters in Thursday's preseason game despite the extensive work they already received.

Wide receiver Jalen Nailor struggled to consistently create separation during the joint practice against Houston on Tuesday. The source notes that Nailor and other Raiders receivers (Tre Tucker, Jack Bech) failed to generate the space their quarterbacks needed against a talented Texans secondary, which could factor into head coach Klint Kubiak's decision to play offensive starters in Thursday's preseason game despite the extensive work they already received.

Wide receiver Tre Tucker struggled to consistently create separation during the joint practice against Houston on Tuesday. The source notes that Tucker and other Raiders receivers (Jalen Nailor, Jack Bech) failed to generate the space their quarterbacks needed against a talented Texans secondary, which could factor into head coach Klint Kubiak's decision to play offensive starters in Thursday's preseason game despite the extensive work they already received.

Tight end Bowers was the Raiders' standout performer during the joint practice against Houston, connecting with Kirk Cousins on a touchdown in the red zone and adding a 25-yard reception with backup quarterback Fernando Mendoza. The source notes that Bowers executed a cleverly designed route that created separation against a talented Texans secondary, and his performance was described as 'the Raiders' highlight of the day.' This suggests Bowers is establishing himself as a reliable target in the Raiders offense despite overall offensive struggles.

Andrews had a rough 2025 with 48 catches, 422 yards, and five touchdowns—all career lows. He was also bottom 13 percent in catch rate and bottom 6 percent in separation. But context matters: Lamar Jackson was banged up most of the year, and Baltimore let both Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar leave in free agency while re-signing Andrews to a three-year extension, a clear vote of confidence from the organization. He projects as the clear No. 2 target in a passing game building toward a featured tight end role, and his connection with Jackson has always been one of the more reliable pairings in the league. He's being drafted like a TE2, which minimizes the downside if last year's dip carries over even a little. Jim Coventry is comfortable planting his flag on a bounce-back.

LaPorta is on pace for roughly 75 catches and eight touchdowns in a full season, with a zero-drop 2025 that ranked in the top 3 percent in adjusted catch rate. He also grades in the top 6 percent in yards per route run against zone coverage and the top 13 percent in yards after catch, elite marks for creating extra yardage at the position. When healthy, he's the clear No. 2 receiving option in Detroit ahead of Jameson Williams. Herniated disc surgery at a young age is a real medical flag, though he's fully recovered and re-injury risk looks slight. LaPorta is getting a significant discount in drafts. He may not be the target hog that the top tight ends are, but relative to cost, his floor-to-ceiling range is one of the best at the position, and Jim Coventry is planting his flag on him.

Harrison posted 16.1 PPR points a game in 12 games last season (22nd among qualifying receivers) while playing through a concussion, an appendectomy, and heel and foot injuries that cost him five games. Arizona's incoming coordinator spent three seasons as a Rams assistant under coach Sean McVay and is bringing an offense built on pre-snap motion and play-action, exactly the kind of easy-separation scheme Harrison needs after struggling to win in short-area and after-the-catch situations. That's an upgrade from a scheme that leaned on him in low-percentage intermediate and deep shots he wasn't built for. The drop rate (67th of 78 qualified receivers) is worth watching, but Jim Coventry expects Harrison to emerge as the clear alpha receiver in this offense. This is a breakout candidate being drafted like a middling WR3, and Coventry is all in.

Moore's move to Buffalo fixes what actually went wrong last season. His 50-catch, 682-yard season in Chicago came on just 85 targets, his lightest workload since 2018, and it was clearly a scheme fit issue rather than a talent issue. He's now Josh Allen's clear No. 1 outside receiver, and Moore's game—improvising and creating off structure—is built for exactly what Allen wants from a receiver. He posted 17 or more PPR points in six of his final 12 games last season even buried in a bad role, and he drops the ball less than almost anyone in the league. Buffalo's defense also projects to take a step back, which should push more volume through the passing game. Jim Coventry is planting his flag here: Moore is still a top-tier receiver, and this is one of the cleanest buy-low opportunities in fantasy this year.

Waddle has three 1,000-yard seasons on his resume and has missed just four games in three years. He ranks in the top 14 percent in yards per route run and the top 13 percent in yards per route run against zone coverage, exploiting soft coverage as well as almost anyone in the league. Denver acquired Waddle specifically to be the catch-and-run weapon coach Sean Payton wanted, replacing a Troy Franklin role that saw nine targets a game during a five-week stretch. Bo Nix's short-area game and the most checkdowns in the league last season line up perfectly with what Waddle does best. His last two seasons (744 and 910 yards) look worse than they should because Tua Tagovailoa's limitations let defenses crowd the exact areas of the field Waddle operates in. Denver sent first-, third- and fourth-round picks to acquire him, and with a strong offensive line and a balanced offense that won't let defenses zero in on one receiver, this is setting up as a massive bounce-back season.

Jaylen Waddle has three 1,000-yard seasons on his resume and has missed just four games in three years. He ranks in the top 14 percent in yards per route run and top 13 percent in yards per route run against zone coverage, exploiting soft coverage as well as almost anyone in the league. Denver acquired Waddle specifically to be the catch-and-run weapon coach Sean Payton wanted, replacing a Troy Franklin role that saw nine targets a game during a five-week stretch. Jim Coventry's analysis is cut off but indicates Waddle as a flag plant pick with elite efficiency metrics and a defined role in Payton's system.

A.J. Brown closed last season playing at a 114-catch, 1,445-yard, 10-touchdown pace in the last seven games in Philadelphia, and his four-year rate extrapolated to a full season is 93 receptions, 1,380 yards, and nine touchdowns. Drake Maye is an upgrade at quarterback over Jalen Hurts, and coach Mike Vrabel, who had Brown in Tennessee, knows exactly what happens to the locker room if Brown doesn't get the ball. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels also coached Randy Moss in New England and never diluted his target share. Durability (six missed games over two seasons) and a drop issue are real risks, but Jim Coventry still believes Brown is an elite receiver. New England's 2026 schedule is tougher than last year's, which should mean plenty of passing volume, and once the top-5 receivers are off the board, Brown is exactly the player he's targeting.

Justin Jefferson's three-year average with competent quarterback play is 113 catches, 1,653 yards, and 9.3 touchdowns a season. Last year's dip was entirely about J.J. McCarthy; across seven games with McCarthy, Jefferson managed just four catches and 44 yards a game with one touchdown. With Carson Wentz for five games, he was back to a career-average pace of seven catches and 95 yards a game, and with Sam Darnold in 2024 he caught 103 passes for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns. Kyler Murray is a real upgrade over Wentz and at least as good as Darnold in this offense. Jim Coventry is choosing to treat last year's McCarthy stretch as if it never happened and says at pick 10, Jefferson is an incredible value who could easily finish as fantasy's No. 1 wide receiver and should be drafted aggressively.

David Montgomery has scored 13, 12, and eight touchdowns in his last three seasons, a legitimate touchdown machine, and missed just six games in that span, durable enough for a true lead role. He ranks in the top 8 percent in evasiveness and top 11 percent in power success rate, a short-yardage and goal-line specialist profile. He's leaving a crowded Detroit backfield for a potential workhorse role in Houston, where the offensive line has been overhauled at three spots to fix a bottom-5 run-blocking unit, and an elite Houston defense (fewer than 300 points allowed) should produce positive game scripts and clock-killing carries. Woody Marks remains on the roster but was well below average in efficiency and isn't a real threat to touches. Jim Coventry says Montgomery is being discounted for a decline that hasn't actually happened and sees him as one of the better values at running back.

Cam Skattebo scored seven touchdowns in just eight games last season, a 15-touchdown full-season pace, and averaged 19.1 PPR points a game after Week 2 with a floor of 11 points. He was on pace for 15.6 touches a game, clear workhorse volume, before a broken right leg and dislocated ankle ended his season early. His pass-protection issues are real and could cost him some third-down snaps, but he's still an effective enough receiver to catch his share of passes even away from obvious passing downs. Jim Coventry says the market is pricing Skattebo like an injury risk instead of pricing the role and production he flashed before the injury, and he's treating this as an excellent value in drafts.

Omarion Hampton flashed real juice last season despite a difficult situation, posting a 5.1-yard average on outside zone carries (nearly 30 percent of his workload) behind a line that graded near the bottom in both pass and run blocking. New coordinator Mike McDaniel brought fullback Alec Ingold from Miami and is set up to run heavy outside zone, the same concept that pushed De'Von Achane to 91 carries at 5.7 yards per carry in a similar role. If McDaniel fed the 188-pound Achane roughly 300 touches a year, there's no obvious reason a 220-pound Hampton doesn't see at least that workload. Hampton posted 15.1 points a game and five touchdowns in nine games despite a broken ankle. Jim Coventry sees this as a perfect storm for a true three-down workhorse role and wouldn't blink at taking him in the back half of the first round.

Kyler Murray is Jim Coventry's favorite value quarterback on the board. He profiles for roughly 624 rushing yards in a full season, and Kevin O'Connell's offense is tailor-made for a mobile, accurate passer—the same system that got 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns out of Sam Darnold in 2024. Murray now throws to the best group of pass catchers of his career in Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson, behind an offensive line that's a real upgrade over what he had in Arizona. Coventry expects a top-10 fantasy quarterback at a QB2 price.

Through six weeks of 2025, Mayfield was playing at a 23.5-point-per-game pace, a strong top-12 quarterback. Outside of the shoulder injury that wrecked his 2025 season, he's about as durable as it gets, playing every game for three consecutive seasons before last year's outlier. He's produced 26 or more touchdown passes in five separate seasons, including a 41-touchdown, 4,500-yard year under his old play caller, and the incoming offensive staff runs a similar system. Jim Coventry is comfortable taking him as a low-risk quarterback with real top-12 upside, or as a high-end streaming and insurance option.

When healthy, Burrow is one of the two or three best quarterbacks in fantasy, averaging 4,697 yards and 39 touchdowns across full seasons, including a 4,918-yard, 43-touchdown ceiling in 2024. He throws to arguably the league's best receiver duo in Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, plus Chase Brown as a legitimate receiving threat out of the backfield. Jim Coventry is planting his flag on Burrow, betting he stays healthy this season despite missing six or more games in three of his six seasons.

Rome Odunze is ranked 45th overall, a flag-plant ranking for Saquon Barkley. Despite limited connection with Caleb Williams so far, Odunze ranked 22nd in targets per game last year. If chemistry with Williams improves, Odunze could be an underrated PPR asset, especially given his usage in motion.

D'Andre Swift is ranked 44th, with Saquon Barkley arguing he is being drafted at his floor. Swift showed increased physicality and aggression last year; if he maintains that form, he possesses significant upside, potentially rivaling top-tier backs like Breece Hall or Travis Etienne if the backfield situation shifts in his favor.

Rashee Rice is ranked 43rd, significantly lower than his home PPR league ADP of 26th. This ranking reflects a belief that Rice's production may decline or that he is currently overvalued by the market.

Ladd McConkey is ranked 42nd overall. Saquon Barkley acknowledges being below market on McConkey by nine spots, noting that this stance is part of a broader trend of fading the Chargers in drafts due to concerns about the offensive line and the overall offensive environment.

Emecha Ibuka is ranked 41st overall, reflecting a full-round discount due to a turf toe injury. Despite the injury, there is confidence he will be ready for Week 1. His outlook is bolstered by moving into the same role Cooper Kupp occupied during his Triple Crown season, which is an improvement over his previous outside-the-numbers usage.

Dalton Schultz is clearly established as the number two target in the Texans' offense according to team reporters.

Xavier Hutchinson remains on the roster and is viewed by team reporters as the likely number two wide receiver for the Texans.

Tank Dell is currently being ramped up in practice as he returns from injury.

Jaylin Noel is expected to step into a larger role following the season-ending injury to Jaden Higgins. He is a pure slot receiver who recently returned to practice after dealing with hamstring and toe injuries.

Nico Collins has been moved up to 16th overall (WR7) due to his elite talent and lack of target competition. He is projected to command a 30%+ target share, with positive touchdown regression expected after scoring only four times on 14 endzone targets last season. He is currently being drafted around the 25th overall position.

AJ Brown is ranked 22nd in the current PPR rankings, though he holds a higher consensus ranking of 12th.

George Pickens is currently ranked as the 21st overall player in consensus PPR rankings.

A.J. Brown is ranked 22nd in the current PPR rankings, though he holds a higher consensus ranking of 12th.

There is uncertainty regarding whether Quinshon Judkins can consistently average 14-16 fantasy points per game.

There is uncertainty regarding whether Bucky Irving can consistently average 14-16 fantasy points per game.

Terry McLaurin is identified as a wide receiver with a reliable floor capable of averaging 14-16 fantasy points per game.

Mike Evans is viewed as a reliable wide receiver with a solid floor, capable of averaging 14-16 fantasy points per game, provided he remains healthy.

Alvin Kamara is dealing with an MCL injury, making him unreliable for fantasy projections. His role in the passing game is a concern and his availability is in question, though he remains ranked ahead of players like Josh Jacobs, Javonte Williams, and Kyren Williams.

Ranked 36th overall, ahead of consensus (48th) and home PPR leagues (40th). He benefits from the best offensive line of his career, a fast offensive environment, and a dome stadium. He led all players last season in fantasy points scored on drives starting in opponent territory (82.2 points), significantly outpacing the next closest RB, Jonathan Taylor (52.4). He averaged over 15 fantasy points in expected fantasy points per game in full PPR.

Tee Higgins is considered an awesome fourth-round pick. Despite being viewed by some as a touchdown-dependent sideline receiver, he has historically produced as a top-15 wide receiver when Joe Burrow is healthy, averaging over six catches and 76 yards per game in those conditions.

Colston Loveland is a high-upside tight end prospect ranked 33rd overall, significantly higher than his ADP. He demonstrated elite efficiency in two-plus tight end sets and is viewed as a future All-Pro with potential to be the best tight end in the NFL, drawing comparisons to Travis Kelce.

Drake London is ranked 10th overall in full PPR consensus rankings, though he is going 17th in home leagues. While he has a high floor, there is some hesitation regarding the overall output of the new Falcons offense.

Xavier Legette is viewed as a high-reception slot receiver candidate in a Panthers offense that will likely be forced to pass frequently due to team depth concerns.

DeVonta Smith is expected to see increased volume compared to previous seasons, though he is ranked behind Jaylen Waddle in full PPR formats due to Waddle's higher reception upside. Smith is preferred in half-PPR formats.

Drake Maye is used as a benchmark in consensus PPR rankings, with Derrick Henry currently ranked behind him, which the analysts view as an error.

Jaylen Waddle is a high-upside PPR asset with proven efficiency, boasting the highest EPA per target since 2022. He is ranked ahead of DeVonta Smith in full PPR rankings due to a higher ceiling for total receptions, with the potential to reach 100-plus catches. He is viewed as a potential second-round pick.

Derrick Henry is significantly undervalued in consensus PPR rankings (38th overall) compared to his actual value (19th overall). Despite low reception projections, his touchdown upside and rushing volume (94 yards/game last year) make him a high-end asset who could finish with zero catches and still be worth a top-24 pick.

Keaton Mitchell is expected to get involved in the backfield rotation, providing a potential role in the team's rushing attack. While he narrowly missed the top 100 rankings, Saquon Barkley noted he was very close to making the cut.

Omarian Hampton is ranked 16th in PPR leagues, but Saquon Barkley expresses skepticism about his superstar potential compared to the consensus, noting he is dealing with an injury and faces a shifting offensive line situation.

Jordan Tyson faces a two-month recovery timeline and is not expected to immediately play a full complement of snaps upon his return, as the team is slow-playing his recovery. He is expected to return to the Saints' lineup following the team's bye week in week eight.

Chris Olave is ranked 24th overall and is a strong target who could benefit from increased volume if teammates are injured. He finished last season as the WR7 in usage and is expected to see heavy volume early in the season before Jordan Tyson potentially returns. He is a top-10 talent, though placed at the bottom of his tier due to injury history and potential volatility regarding quarterback Tyler Shuck.

Malik Nabers is ranked 17th overall, significantly higher than his 25th consensus ranking. Despite injury concerns, there is growing optimism for his Week 1 availability. Given the Giants' thin depth chart, he could command a 36% target share and potentially perform like a first-round talent by season's end. News throughout training camp has been exclusively positive.

James Cook is ranked 15th overall. He is expected to maintain his rushing workload under a new offensive coordinator with potential for increased passing game usage and goal-line opportunities. He is ranked ahead of Drake London in consensus rankings due to his higher perceived pathway to finishing as a top-three running back.

Chase Brown is ranked 14th overall, reflecting confidence in his production when Joe Burrow is healthy. He is viewed as a valuable running back option in rounds three and four where finding reliable point-projections is difficult, and he is ranked ahead of Drake London in consensus rankings due to his higher perceived pathway to finishing as a top-three running back.

Brock Bowers is ranked 16th overall, ahead of his 22nd overall home league ADP. He is considered an elite tight end target for full PPR formats due to his projected target share, provided his knee injury remains a non-issue.

De'Von Achane is ranked 11th overall. Concerns that his pass-catching production was reliant on checkdowns are mitigated by data showing most of his receptions were schemed plays like swing passes and screens. With limited competition for targets in the Dolphins' offense, he is expected to maintain high reception volume.

Kenneth Walker III is a high-priority target ranked 12th overall, significantly ahead of his 19th overall ADP in home PPR leagues. He has demonstrated increased receiving utility compared to his earlier career, justifying a bullish outlook and a ranking ahead of players like Drake London.

Devon Achane is ranked 36th overall, significantly ahead of his consensus ADP (48th) and home league ADP (40th). Concerns regarding his reliance on checkdowns are mitigated by data showing his receptions were primarily schemed plays like screens and swings. With limited target competition in Miami, he is expected to maintain high reception volume and has a clear pathway to a top-three RB finish.

Jonathan Taylor is ranked ninth overall as a high-value asset. While analysts note he is close in value to Christian McCaffrey in half-PPR formats, McCaffrey remains ranked higher due to his superior passing game involvement.

Christian McCaffrey is an elite first-round fantasy asset. Despite recent concerns regarding missed practices and tightness, analysts are holding him at seventh overall, citing his league-winning upside and history of playing through minor red flags. He is ranked ahead of Jonathan Taylor due to his significantly higher target volume in the passing game.

Justin Jefferson remains a top-12 player despite some analysts moving him out of the first round. His underlying metrics are elite, ranking as the WR4 in team target share and WR5 in air yard share last year. His production dip was attributed solely to poor quarterback play; he averaged over 100 receiving yards per game when excluding games played with backup quarterbacks.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba is a high-upside target who benefited from a league-leading targets per route run rate last season. While his target share may fluctuate under a new coordinator, he maintains the potential to finish as a WR1.

Hayden Winks ranks Amon-Ra St. Brown fifth overall, citing his safe floor and consistent track record of 100+ catches in each of the last four seasons. He led the NFL in red zone targets over the last two years (66) and benefits from a schedule where 12 of 16 fantasy games are played indoors.

Hayden Winks ranks Puka Nacua second overall, citing his 24.4 full PPR points per game last year and the massive upside if he gains a red zone role. Winks notes he may move Ja'Marr Chase ahead if the current soft tissue injury lingers, but expects to keep Nacua at two. Nacua is viewed as a player capable of producing a 'beyond ludicrous' fantasy season.

Hayden Winks ranks Ja'Marr Chase third overall, noting that while Chase is first in expert consensus PPR ranks, he prefers Puka Nacua due to upside. Winks acknowledges Chase had a quiet season by his standards but remains a dominant force when healthy and is capable of a 'beyond ludicrous' fantasy season.

Hayden Winks ranks Bijan Robinson as the fourth overall player in his full PPR rankings.

Hayden Winks ranked Trey McBride 13th overall last year, which was significantly higher than the 24th overall ranking seen in home leagues, highlighting Winks' aggressive valuation of the tight end.

Saquon Barkley is ranked 13th overall, significantly ahead of his 26th overall expert consensus ranking and aligning closer to his 14th overall home league ADP. There is optimism that his new offensive coordinator will maintain his rushing volume while potentially increasing his passing game involvement and goal-line opportunities via the tush push. Winks notes that Barkley is ranked ahead of Drake London due to his higher perceived pathway to finishing as a top-three running back.

Hayden Winks ranks Josh Allen 37th overall as the QB1, noting a discount for full PPR formats where he ranks him 10 spots lower than in half-PPR. Despite potential drop-back rate changes under new leadership, Allen's rushing floor remains elite, highlighted by his league-leading 13 rushing TDs inside the 10-yard line. With improved receiving options like DJ Moore and a healthy Dalton Kincaid, Winks suggests this could be the best season of Allen's career, even though he is currently being drafted higher (23rd in home PPR, 27th in consensus) than his ranking.

Brady Russell is competing with Jackson Acker, Brock Lampe, and other tight ends for fullback snaps in the Seahawks' new offensive scheme under coordinator Brian Fleury.

Brock Lampe was signed to the Seattle Seahawks roster from the New England Patriots on August 6th and played three snaps in the Seahawks' first preseason game against the Cowboys on Saturday; he is competing with Jackson Acker, Brady Russell, and tight ends for fullback snaps.

Second-year fullback Robbie Ouzts' season is over, prompting the Seahawks to work out replacement fullbacks including Jackson Acker and Brock Lampe.

Undrafted rookie fullback Jackson Acker was released by the Buffalo Bills on Monday and is being worked out by the Seattle Seahawks; the source notes he is a true fullback with college experience in both blocking and receiving roles, and will compete for snaps with Brock Lampe (signed from New England Patriots), Brady Russell, and tight ends who can line up at fullback.

Second-year fullback's season is over due to injury, creating the vacancy that prompted the Seahawks to work out Jackson Acker and sign Brock Lampe to compete for fullback snaps.

Competing for fullback snaps on Seahawks roster alongside Jackson Acker, Brock Lampe, and tight ends capable of lining up at fullback under new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury's fullback-integrated offensive scheme.

Signed to Seattle Seahawks roster from New England Patriots on August 6th; competing for fullback snaps with Jackson Acker, Brady Russell, and tight ends capable of lining up at fullback. Lampe played three snaps in Seahawks' first preseason game against the Cowboys.

Undrafted rookie fullback recently released by Buffalo Bills and worked out by Seattle Seahawks to fill vacancy created by Robbie Ouzts' season-ending injury. Acker has college experience in both passing-game and traditional blocking roles; competing for snaps with Brock Lampe, Brady Russell, and tight ends capable of lining up at fullback under new offensive coordinator Brian Fleury, who prioritizes fullback integration in the offense.

Here’s what you need to know about the Houston Texans wide receiver room after Jayden Higgins’ season-ending injury in practice.

MarShawn Lloyd is a big-time riser in rankings due to his strong camp performance and the injury/suspension risk surrounding Josh Jacobs.

Juwan Johnson is moving up in rankings as the Jordan Tyson injury creates more target availability for him to operate as the team's second receiver.

George Kittle is moving up in JJ Zachariason's rankings due to recent positive injury news.

Jordan Mason is moving up in rankings; JJ Zachariason notes that reports from Vikings camp suggest Mason is the preferred target over Aaron Jones.

Stefon Diggs has risen in JJ Zachariason's rankings, attributed to a good landing spot.

Chris Godwin has received a slight bump in rankings, likely due to the injury to Emeka Egbuka.

Jonathan Brooks is a massive riser in redraft and dynasty rankings due to positive camp buzz and Chuba Hubbard's week-to-week hamstring injury, which currently solidifies Brooks as the starter.

D'Andre Swift has moved up from a fifth-round to a fourth-round pick; the injury to Kyle Manungai (hyperextended knee) makes it safer to bank on Swift as the starting running back for the Chicago Bears. Additionally, JJ Zachariason prefers Swift over Cam Akers following the Matt Nagy signing.

JJ Zachariason has moved Tyler Allgeier up his rankings as a priority handcuff due to Jeremiah Love's high ankle sprain, positioning him ahead of other handcuff running backs.

Braelon Allen is a must-draft handcuff in the final two rounds of fantasy drafts, as he could see significant opportunity if Breece Hall's groin injury lingers.

Breece Hall suffered a strained groin two days ago; JJ Zachariason notes it is not a major concern but acknowledges the injury could linger into the start of the season.

JJ Zachariason has moved Chris Olave up in rankings due to Jordan Tyson's injury. Olave is now a target for the end of the second or beginning of the third round, with expectations to perform as a WR1 while Tyson is out, before sliding back to a WR2 role upon Tyson's return.

Jordan Tyson is expected to miss the first five to seven weeks of the season; the team has a bye in week eight.

With Alvin Kamara sidelined, Travis Etienne has been moved back into the tier of round-three running backs. He is viewed as a potential three-down player in a Kellen Moore offense and is a recommended target in the third round.

Alvin Kamara is expected to be sidelined for at least a month due to a sprained MCL. Given his age and injury history, the recovery timeline could potentially extend further.

Tank Dell has been moved up to around WR60 following the Jaden Higgins injury. He is a recommended late-round target with upside, supported by his rookie-season average of 15 fantasy points per game.

Following Jaden Higgins' season-ending torn ACL, Nico Collins has moved up from a late second-round pick to a mid-second-round pick. He is now tiered with Drake London as a prime wide receiver expected to see a high volume of targets.

Keenan Allen has received a significant bump in rankings to WR56 following injuries to Alec Pierce and Tyler Warren. He is now considered a viable late-round target in double-digit rounds.

Tyler Warren is dealing with a groin injury suffered during practice; he is expected to miss a considerable amount of time, resulting in a drop in fantasy rankings.

Here's what you need to know about the Houston Texans wide receiver room after Jayden Higgins' season-ending injury in practice.

One degree on the hotel thermostat for every touchdown Kyler Murray is scoring this season

Here's what you need to know about the Houston Texans wide receiver room after Jayden Higgins' season-ending injury in practice.

Dalton Schultz is recommended as a late-round tight end option if the source misses on earlier tight end targets; the source positions him as a reliable fallback to stock up on in later rounds.

Travis Kelce is a tight end option at the 6-7 turn; the source recommends him as a fallback if earlier tight end targets don't fall, positioning him as a viable option in the mid-draft window.

Mark Andrews is a tight end option at the 6-7 turn; the source recommends him as a fallback if earlier tight end targets don't fall, positioning him as a viable option in the mid-draft window.

Luther Burden is dealing with a groin injury and falling to the mid-fourth round as a result; the source cites this injury as one reason several high-end receivers are available later than typical ADP.

Amon-Ra St. Brown is dealing with a toe injury and falling to the mid-fourth round as a result; the source notes this injury context as part of the reason several high-end receivers are available later than typical ADP.

Available at the 4-10 in mock drafts; represents high-end wide receiver value available deep in the fourth round, part of a large tier of receivers with no significant drop-off from mid-tier running backs.

At the 4-5 turn, Pickens represents significantly better value than Trayvon Henderson; the source notes that taking Pickens instead of Henderson at that draft position would have materially improved the season outcome, illustrating the importance of hitting on the right player selection.

Available at the 6-7 turn in mock drafts, representing strong value among elite wide receivers in the middle rounds of the source's draft strategy.

Available at the 6-7 turn in mock drafts, representing strong value among elite wide receivers in the middle rounds of the source's draft strategy.

Named as a starting running back whose injury would create a clear waiver-wire opportunity for the next backup; used as an example of how running back injuries create transparent replacement paths throughout the season.

Named as a starting running back whose injury would create a clear waiver-wire opportunity for the next backup; used as an example of how running back injuries create transparent replacement paths throughout the season.

Named as a starting running back whose injury would create a clear waiver-wire opportunity for the next backup; used as an example of how running back injuries create transparent replacement paths throughout the season.

Tony Pollard was taken at pick 81 in a mock draft as a flex play in the later rounds, part of a strategy of peppering flex spots with running backs and wide receivers after securing core positions.

Michael Pittman Jr. was taken at pick 92 in a mock draft as a flex play in the later rounds, part of a strategy of peppering flex spots with running backs and wide receivers after securing core positions.

Jaylen Warren was taken at pick 72 in a mock draft as a flex play in the later rounds, part of a strategy of peppering flex spots with running backs and wide receivers after securing core positions.

Tucker Kraft was taken at pick 61 in a mock draft and the source expresses confidence in him as a mid-tier tight end one option in the four-through-seven range, positioning him as a set-it-and-forget-it option that doesn't require streaming.

DeAndre Swift is dealing with backfield competition from a player with a multi-week injury, which could create a snap share increase for Swift.

Kamar Aiken has a multi-week injury that impacts his draft value at the 4–5 turn.

David Montgomery is characterized as a good floor player with reliable volume at the 4–5 turn, making him a solid value option in the source's draft strategy.

Travis Etienne is positioned at ADP 46 (4–6 turn) and represents incredible value when he falls to pick 52. The source prioritized him over tight end options like Tyler Warren at the same pick because the value was too good to pass up; the source notes uncertainty about how much higher his ADP will climb but believes he may fall even lower in some leagues.

Mike Evans is acquired as the third receiver in the source's ideal draft strategy at the 4–12 turn, representing solid value in the middle rounds.

Colston Loveland is a strong value tight end option available in the 4–5 turn (ADP around 41–52). The source acquired him at the 4–12 turn in their ideal draft strategy and recommends him as a flex option at the 4–5 turn if he falls there, positioning him as a viable alternative to running backs and wide receivers in that draft window.

Could be moved up to the 2-3 turn in draft strategy due to Jordan Tyson's injury; the source does not view this adjustment as a necessary change but presents it as a viable option if prioritizing Saints receiver depth.

Taken 1st overall in the source's draft strategy example to illustrate a running back-first approach; enables subsequent receiver selection flexibility at the 2-3 turn, where the drafter has choice of multiple elite receiver options including Rashid Rice, Malik Nabers, and Drake London.

Positioned as the last running back of the elite tier; fell to pick 29 in the source's draft example, providing ideal value and enabling well-rounded team construction with early receiver picks. The source describes this as lucky and illustrates tier-based draft strategy where securing Henry at 29 after taking Puka Nacua at 4 created a strong foundation.

Presents multiple red flags that make the source wary of him as a pure RB1 despite guaranteed volume. He has missed significant camp time with injury, faces potential suspension risk, and plays behind a poor Green Bay Packers offensive line that provided almost zero running room last year. Marshon Lloyd's involvement if healthy further limits volume upside. The source expresses wariness about Jacobs despite volume potential.

Positioned as a receiver value option in the 4th-5th round with insane value; the source presents Waddle as one of several interchangeable options offering volume, upside, or touchdown scoring potential alongside Luther Burton, Lad Mani, and Garrett Wilson.

Positioned as a receiver value option in the 4th-5th round with insane value; the source presents Wilson as one of several interchangeable options offering volume, upside, or touchdown scoring potential alongside Luther Burton, Jaylen Waddle, and Lad Mani.