Get Ready for the 2026 NFL Season with Expert Rankings and Breakout Picks

The 2026 NFL season is just around the corner, signaling the start of draft season for fantasy football enthusiasts. R.J. White and Josh Nagel from SportsLine provide invaluable insights through their comprehensive Fantasy Football Draft Guide.

Players like Trevor Lawrence and Christian Watson are set to make waves in 2026, while others such as Dalton Schultz and Braelon Allen might surprise you with late picks. Prepare yourself for a competitive league by understanding the rankings, sleepers, and breakout prospects.

R.J. White says: 'Trevor Lawrence has an impressive array of weapons in the passing game, setting him up to potentially set career-best stats.'

(according to reporting by CBS Sports - Headlines)

Tonyan Breakouts and Busts

R.J. White highlights potential breakout players for 2026, including quarterbacks Trevor Lawrence of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Although he is a late pick, his potential for career-best statistics in passing yards and touchdowns cannot be overlooked.

Christian Watson from the Green Bay Packers shows promise if health holds, potentially pushing for WR1 production.

Sleepers and Avoids

The guide identifies potential busts to avoid in the first round as well. Players like Dalton Schultz have massively inflated ADPs and could significantly impact playoff hopes if over-drafted.

Josh Nagel says: 'Dalton Schultz, with an ADP of 162, is a high-risk player you should be wary of.'

(according to reporting by CBS Sports - Headlines)

Positional Rankings and Key Drafting Tips

The Fantasy Football Draft Guide also provides detailed positional rankings for non-, half-, and full-PPR leagues. It offers key draft tips at each position, helping you make smarter picks throughout the season.

  • TRENT: Bowers and Trey McBride are on the rise in tight end tiers.
  • WR Tiers: Ja'Marr Chase remains the WR1 according to Dave Richard's latest tier analysis.

(according to reporting by CBS Sports - Headlines)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-ranked players in 2026 fantasy football?

The latest guide from R.J. White and Josh Nagel focuses on Trevor Lawrence, Bijan Robinson, and Ja'Marr Chase, among others.

How can I avoid draft busts in the first round?

Placing a high ADP like Dalton Schultz in the first few rounds could sink your playoff hopes. Stay cautious of players with inflated ADPs to maximize your team's potential.