Breakout Candidates for the 2026 Fantasy Season
The fantasy football landscape for 2026 is already taking shape as analysts dissect how injuries, offseason moves, and coaching adjustments could reshape player values. While average draft positions (ADPs) provide a baseline, several athletes are positioned to exceed those expectations, creating potential bargains for savvy roster builders.
Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown exemplifies this trend. In 2024 he ranked tenth among backs in fantasy points per game and climbed to seventh in 2025, thanks to a high‑scoring offense that features quarterback Joe Burrow, wideout Ja'Marr Chase, and fellow receiver Tee Higgins. The continuity of that attack, combined with Brown's proven efficiency, makes him a strong candidate to finish higher than his current ADP.
A.J. Brown's relocation to the New England Patriots adds another layer of intrigue. After a trade that brings him to New England, the wide receiver will work with rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who is expected to develop quickly under the team's new offensive scheme. Early projections suggest that Brown could see a surge in target volume, positioning him to outperform the expectations attached to his new team.
In Philadelphia, DeVonta Smith has established himself as a dependable starter, averaging at least 3.5 receptions and 50 receiving yards per game. With Brown's departure from the Eagles, Smith's target rate is projected to increase, potentially elevating him to the role of the team's primary receiving option. That shift could translate into a higher fantasy ceiling than his current draft position.
Tight end Tucker Kraft of the Green Bay Packers also warrants attention. After recovering from an ACL tear, Kraft's target rate rose from 14.5% to 19.1% in 2025, and his yards after catch improved dramatically. As the Packers' offense continues to evolve, Kraft's efficiency and increased involvement could see him surpass the modest expectations tied to his current ADP.
Finally, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence is poised for a breakout season. In 2025 he set career highs in rushing attempts, yards, and touchdowns, showcasing a dual‑threat skill set. With a new coaching staff and an expanding receiving corps, Lawrence's trajectory suggests he could deliver a season that outshines the current fantasy projections for quarterbacks.