ESPN’s fantasy football analyst Adam Schefter has released his 2026 cheat sheet, a guide that spotlights the players who offer the most value relative to their draft position and the hidden gems who could surprise league‑wide.
At quarterback, Schefter leans on Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears as his top mid‑round target, citing the 4,000‑plus passing yards, 30 touchdowns and low interception rate he posted in his rookie campaign. He also flags Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints as a late‑round prospect who should thrive with a potent mix of weapons including Jordyn Tyson, Travis Etienne and Chris Olave.
The running back board features Bhayshul Tuten from the Jacksonville Jaguars as a mid‑round pick, with veteran Chris Rodriguez as his primary competition for snaps, while Blake Corum of the Los Angeles Rams is highlighted as a late‑round steal after his 746‑yard, six‑touchdown rookie season that yielded a 5.1‑yard average per carry.
Among receivers, Parker Washington of the Jacksonville Jaguars leads the pack after posting a team‑high 58 receptions and 847 yards last season, a foundation Schefter expects him to build on in 2026. He also points to Ryan Flournoy of the Dallas Cowboys as a deep sleeper who could become a must‑start option if CeeDee Lamb or George Pickens miss time.
Why These Sleepers Matter
The common thread among Schefter’s selections is the blend of clear upside and relatively modest risk, a combination that can reshape draft strategies across fantasy leagues. By targeting players who are poised for increased roles or who benefit from favorable situational advantages, fantasy managers can secure outsized returns without reaching for overhyped names.
Whether you are building a roster for a season‑long league or a daily showdown, the cheat sheet offers a roadmap to balance certainty with upside, ensuring that the players you stash today could be the difference‑makers when the playoffs arrive.