As the 2026 fantasy football draft approaches, SportsLine’s sophisticated model has run 10,000 simulated NFL seasons to surface the most promising sleepers, a timing that coincides with the Labor Day weekend peak of draft activity.
Among the names that emerged from the simulation, running back De’Von Achane stands out after delivering 1,838 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns in 2025, a performance that the model pegged as a solid RB6 in fantasy points.
De’Von Achane – The RB6 Who Could Be RB1
Achane’s 2025 production was not a fluke; the algorithm’s historical accuracy, demonstrated by past breakout calls on players like Derrick Henry and Christian McCaffrey, gives confidence that his current trajectory points to a genuine RB1-caliber season.
Tight end Isaiah Likely, whose ADP sits at 92, is projected as TE9 thanks to a larger role under quarterback Jaxson Dart and the Giants’ improved passing attack, which should translate into more target opportunities.
Veteran running back Tony Pollard, despite his age, is expected to stay productive as the Titans’ revamped receiving corps opens up more rushing lanes, reinforcing his value as a late‑season starter.
Perhaps the most intriguing prediction is a high‑upside receiver slated to fall in the third or fourth round, projected as a top‑10 fantasy option and likely to outperform established stars such as CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson.
The Model’s Proven Track Record
SportsLine’s model has a history of nail‑biting accuracy, having correctly identified breakout seasons for De’Von Achane, Derrick Henry and Christian McCaffrey in previous years, giving fantasy managers confidence in its forecasts.
Other notable outliers include quarterback Bryce Young, tight end Kyle Pitts and running back Javonte Williams, whose ADP does not reflect their true upside according to the simulation.
With the draft season culminating on Labor Day weekend, savvy fantasy participants can gain a competitive edge by targeting these sleepers, especially those who offer a blend of proven track records and untapped potential.