The Early Bird Catches the Value
The buzz around the 2026 NFL preseason is already turning heads in fantasy leagues, where managers scramble to lock in undervalued assets before the draft frenzy begins.
Among the candidates, New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough stands out after a 2025 campaign that yielded 17.6 fantasy points per start; with a projected uplift in talent around him, his current ADP of 147 positions him as a prime streaming option.
Running back RJ Harvey of the Denver Broncos, who logged 47 receptions, 896 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns last season despite a deep backfield, has earned the confidence of head coach Sean Payton and is being drafted at an ADP of 54, placing him squarely in the RB2/flex conversation.
Wide receiver Denzel Boston of the Cleveland Browns is expected to become the team’s primary target, his skill set drawing comparisons to Hall of Famer Mike Evans, yet his ADP sits at 175, a stark contrast that highlights a potential bargain for astute owners.
The ADP Mispricing Effect
When a player’s projected performance outpaces his draft position, the discrepancy creates a window for profit, especially in points‑per‑reception formats that reward receptions and touchdowns.
Savvy managers who invest in such sleepers often see their rosters outperform expectations, as the early acquisition of high‑upside talent can cascade into deeper playoff runs.