The Buffalo Bills will open training camp on July 29, marking the start of a crucial preparation period for a team that finished last season with a 13‑2 record and a playoff berth. While the franchise’s success has already put quarterback Josh Allen at the center of fantasy discussions, a trio of less heralded players is quietly positioning themselves to become breakout candidates in 2026.
Training Camp Outlook
Fantasy analysts typically gravitate toward Allen because of his dual‑threat upside, but the real intrigue lies in the depth chart behind him. With James Cook expected to see a reduced workload, the opportunity is spreading to other backs, and the coaching staff’s recent roster moves suggest that new roles will emerge.
The Sleepers Emerging
Among the most talked‑about prospects is rookie wide receiver Skyler Bell, who arrives after a collegiate career at UConn that produced 101 receptions for 1,278 yards and 13 touchdowns. His 17.2‑yard average per catch placed him inside the top 40 of all pass catchers last season, and a Pro Football Reference grade of 85.2 underscores his polished route running. A hamstring issue kept him out of mandatory minicamp from June 9 to 11, but the team’s medical staff remains optimistic about his readiness for the first day of camp.
Another name generating buzz is running back Ray Davis, who posted 64.1 fantasy points in PPR formats last year and averaged 4.7 yards per carry. Davis also contributed two touchdown receptions, and his recent designation as an Associated Press first‑team All‑Pro kick returner adds a special‑teams dimension that could further boost his value. With Cook’s snap share projected to dip, Davis is poised to absorb a larger share of carries.
At the tight end position, Jackson Hawes brings a block‑first mentality that has already translated into production. He finished the previous season with 16 catches, three touchdowns and an 11.7‑yard average per reception, while his catch‑rate over expected was +10.9% and his receiving EPA stood at +13.9 per Next Gen Stats. Those metrics helped him accrue 52.7 fantasy points, and a projected 43% increase in snap share suggests he could see a significant uptick in targets.
Draft Implications
All three players — Bell, Davis and Hawes — are slated to be evaluated closely during camp drills and preseason games. Their performances will ultimately shape draft boards and fantasy league strategies as owners look to capitalize on undervalued assets. If the Bills’ offense can maintain its momentum from last season, these sleepers could prove to be the difference between a middling roster and a championship‑contending one.