The 2026 fantasy football season is already generating buzz as analysts identify players whose 2025 performances were hampered by injury, quarterback instability or shifting target distributions. Among the names that stand out are Terry McLaurin, Mark Andrews, Justin Jefferson, Jalen Hurts and Emeka Egbuka, each of whom could see a dramatic turnaround in the upcoming draft cycle.
McLaurin’s 2025 campaign was cut short by a combination of personal injuries and the intermittent availability of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. With Daniels expected to start a full slate and the Commanders’ receiving corps healthier than a year ago, the wideout is projected to see a surge in targets and yardage, making him a prime candidate for a fantasy rebound.
Andrews experienced a similar dip, not because of his own production but because the emergence of tight end Isaiah Likely reshaped the Ravens’ offensive hierarchy. Likely’s recent move to the New York Giants adds a new layer of uncertainty, but the tight end’s own trajectory suggests he could reclaim a leading role, especially if the Giants’ passing game takes a step forward under new play‑calling.
Jefferson’s 2025 numbers suffered from a mediocre quarterback situation, despite his own elite talent. The arrival of Kyler Murray in Minnesota brings a dynamic playmaker back to the Vikings’ fold, and many expect the receiver to rediscover the explosive chemistry that made him a weekly touchdown threat.
Hurts faced a turbulent year marked by a demanding offensive coordinator in Kevin Patullo and the constant pressure of meeting A.J. Brown’s target expectations. The recent hiring of Sean Mannion and the selection of rookie Makai Lemon signal a refreshed offensive scheme that could free Hurts to operate more efficiently, potentially translating into a higher fantasy ceiling.
Egbuka’s 2025 stint was marred by injuries and a struggling offense, but the prospect of a healthier roster and reduced competition for targets positions him well for a breakout season. If the team’s overall health improves, the young receiver could see a substantial increase in receptions and yards.
A fresh outlook for fantasy drafts
Overall, the confluence of better health, upgraded quarterback play and shifting target dynamics creates a compelling narrative for these five athletes. Drafts slated for 2026 will likely reward those who anticipate these bounce‑back scenarios, positioning them as value picks in the later rounds.