Spring Reset

Start losing weight the right way through Hims today. Weight-loss treatment plans through Hims now include access to FDA-approved Wegovy® pills and injections to fit your lifestyle (no insurance required)—helping users lose up to 20% of bodyweight in 1 year.* It’s convenient, legit and refreshingly simple to get started. You’ll fill out an online assessment and, if a provider determines you're eligible, receive your prescription—you’ll also get a dedicated Care Team with 24/7 messaging and personalized support to guide you through treatment plans that fit your goals.

With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

🐬 This QB with big rushing upside, just might rise up into the top 12.

🎯 Just who is the WR to target in Jacksonville? Not a one-hit wonder.

👀 This DST does have a lot of new faces in the secondary, but it’s worth an early look.

📉 A TE is trending down in ADP. A little company definitely hurt.

🏈 These rookies may be there even after drafts. Stash them quickly.

💥 Most projected rushing TDs this season. Get ready for a Sonic boom.

🤩 An RB is predicting over 300 carries & 2K yards. We’ll flip out if he does.

Dome Sweet Home: Weather-Proof Fantasy Playoffs

We know, we know. It’s almost Memorial Day Weekend, and we’d all rather be thinking of being outside on a warm evening at a barbecue, sipping something cold … rather than thinking of the cold. As in the weather. But to be a good fantasy manager, the grind never stops, so we’re looking ahead to the fantasy playoffs. Weeks 15-17 in late December and early January, when a good chunk of the country may as well be in parkas. OK, some call that “football weather.” Try throwing when the wind is howling, or running when the grass is frozen over.

Then there are those teams that play under protected cover, or even those in Florida and California that will still have sunshine at that time. Are there some teams that have schedules that largely avoid the outdoors? Looking at you, Cowboys. And there are others with tasty matchups indoors or in perfect weather. Even some chilly outdoor tilts that could heat up the scoreboard. See if this cool read can give you some draft targets.⤵️

Dynasty Risers/Fallers: Sell Low on RJ Harvey?

Right when Jonah Coleman got picked by the Denver Broncos, all the helium seemed to leave the balloon that is RJ Harvey’s value. From Week 11 onward, Harvey was last man standing in the Denver backfield and put up a 61% rush attempt share and 21% targets per route run. His UR score of 78 was more than respectable.

How did he get rewarded? The Broncos re-signed J.K. Dobbins and then drafted Coleman, giving fantasy managers all sorts of headaches in how to decipher the touch distribution in Denver. Sam Wallace broke down some dynasty risers and fallers. Guess where Harvey falls? ⤵️

A New TE1 is Bearing Down

With apologies to Trey McBride and Brock Bowers, what’s keeping Colston Loveland from being the overall TE1 in fantasy? Ian and Dwain break down the Bears as they continue their preview series. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes.⤵️

Spring Reset

Start losing weight the right way through Hims today. Weight-loss treatment plans through Hims now include access to FDA-approved Wegovy® pills and injections to fit your lifestyle (no insurance required)—helping users lose up to 20% of bodyweight in 1 year.* It’s convenient, legit and refreshingly simple to get started. You’ll fill out an online assessment and, if a provider determines you're eligible, receive your prescription—you’ll also get a dedicated Care Team with 24/7 messaging and personalized support to guide you through treatment plans that fit your goals.

With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

🤦 Again, Rashee Rice? Seriously dude??

💪 The Rams are running it back with the same skill group. Should they still be Super Bowl favorites?

🤑 Some offenses are getting pricey in fantasy drafts. There’s a reason why.

🙌 WR6 may be too low for this alpha WR. Who gets bumped down?

🤞 Already looking forward to Broncos-Chiefs Week 1. Mahomes and Nix, please be healthy.

🤔 The latest on Alvin Kamara. This could really go either way.

🤷 The Cardinals announce their starting QB? But how long will it last.

📆 Mark your calendars. The NFL Draft is heading to Minnesota & the Super Bowl to Nashville.

🏈 In a class by himself atop the ranks. Who else could it be?

🎯 He could be the ideal last pick in best ball drafts. Throw a dart.

OTA Storylines: Malik Nabers, Travis Hunter and More

It’s that time of year. Football players in helmets and shorts, running routes, catching passes. No tackling allowed. It “looks” like football, but we all know the truth. But after three months without the real deal, we’ll take anything with a pigskin we can get. And with that are the storylines that we want to follow and get answers to both now and in training camp so we can be informed drafters come August (and even September). Adam Pfeifer broke down five storylines as OTAs are firing up, including how the Travis Hunter playing-time situation is shaping up:

“There have been all sorts of conflicting reports regarding where Hunter will play this season, but it appears the answer isn’t as confusing. Hunter will play corner and wide receiver in 2026, but how much will be the real question. Given the current makeup of the Jaguars roster, cornerback is the more pressing need. But you don’t trade up to select Hunter second overall, only to not maximize his potential. And while his route rate is unlikely to be insanely high, I’d be willing to bet that when he’s on the field, he’s getting the ball. Liam Coen is one of the best screen designers in the NFL right now, and during Hunter’s first seven games of last year, 13% of his targets came off screens.”

Stash These Players On Your Dynasty Taxi Squad?

Are you really going to play the Puka Nacua card? Think about it. Fifth-round WR going to a team with an elite QB—some might say beyond elite. If that player is available late in your draft, how fast are you hitting the draft button? Jake Trowbridge identified one player who fits that exact mold, plus four others who just might be worth a spot on your roster even after rookie drafts are done. ⤵️

NFC North Is Plenty Frosty

Is the NFC North the most competitive division in the NFL? All four teams have reasonable-to-great playoff expectations. All “should” have bona fide starting QBs—looking at you in the Twin Cities! All are down-to-the-bone rivals with one another. Kendall, Ian and Dwain preview the division. Make sure to subscribe to the Fantasy Life Show, so you don’t miss an episode. ⤵️

Years Of Guarantees With JSN

What’s not to love about Jaxon Smith-Njigba in dynasty? He just finished a spectacular season with 119 catches, 1,793 receiving yards and 10 TDs. He was the engine for the Seahawks’ amazing Super Bowl, and was even named NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He’s just turned 24. He’s just entering his prime! We’re looking at potentially at least a five-year run of consistent greatness.

That’s exactly what the Xfinity 5-Year Price Guarantee means for your wallet: 5 years. The same price. No contracts or commitments. Just peace of mind knowing your connection, and your cost, will go the distance. Sports can be unpredictable, but your internet price doesn’t have to be. Get a reliable price for the most reliable, fiber-powered WiFi. Only with Xfinity.

_{Restrictions apply. Select plans only. Xfinity internet is powered by fiber and connected to premises by coaxial cable. Most reliable claim based on Opensignal Awards USA: Fixed Broadband Report, May 2025: XB6+}

Around The Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news and memes from our merry band of football nerds …

⚡️ An offense that got supercharged in the offseason, by adding a new coach.

😴 The WR to draft in Jacksonville. Post-hype sleeper?

🤔 Already thinking Week 1 matchups? Some picks to target.

🔴 These players will have you seeing red. As in the zone.

💤 Who gets the most rest in 2026? Cool viz here.

🤷 Which Cardinals WR should you draft? It is shocking we are at this point.

💸 Is this the year for Aaron Rodgers? The odds say … no.

⬆️ Upside is everything with this NFC North team. A couple new faces will lift them up.

🏈 Could not have picked a better landing spot for this veteran WR. Major efficiency boost.

WR Rankings Are Loaded For A Big 2026

Just how loaded is the WR position going into the 2026 season. When looking at our Fantasy Life rankings, 4 of the top 6 WRs have been WR1 overall during the past four seasons. One player who was WR2 last season is Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The one to not have a top-2 finish, Amon-Ra St. Brown, has finished WR4 in each of the past three seasons. Talk about consistency.

In looking at the players beyond top 6, it doesn’t take much to make a case for any of the remaining players in the top 12 to make a leap into the higher tiers. But who gets bumped down without an injury? Adam Pfeifer broke down the players who will be going off the board in the first two rounds of fantasy drafts. ⤵️

Mailbag: How to Draft Malik Nabers Coming off Injury

It really is one of the biggest conundrums of the NFL offseason: How to handle Malik Nabers’ return from ACL surgery? On the one hand, Nabers put up one of the best WR rookie seasons in recent memory: 109-1,204-7 on 170 targets IN 2024. He did so with QBs who are a far cry from the upgrade he got last season in Jaxson Dart. The problem is the ACL injury that he suffered in Week 4 last season, which wrecked so many fantasy teams’ prospects in 2025.

Now reports are putting into question whether he will be full speed going into training camp, and possibly putting into question Nabers’ participation at the start of the 2026 season—he’s dropping in ADP. Kendall Valenzuela tackled that question and others in her weekly mailbag.

Are We Too Low on Brock Purdy?

All Brock Purdy does is ball out. In the past three seasons, the man known as Mr. Irrelevant, Class of 2022, has posted top-12 finishes in fantasy points per game. Is this the year to break the trend of drafting him as a backup? Ian and Dwain break down the 49ers and continue their team preview series. Don’t miss an episode, subscribe today. 👀

Fantasy Life Rankings Updated All Offseason

With the NFL Draft behind us, depth charts are “mostly” set. So the Fantasy Life crew has updated the rankings so we can all get an idea where some of our favorite players will get drafted this summer. And they’ll be updated as news breaks.

Are you taking Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs 1.01? See what the rankings say.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

📈 His rookie season was on par with Bijan Robinson’s. Are you drafting this RB in 2026?

📛 What’s in a name? When it comes to fantasy teams, it’s everything.

⚡️ This DST can give your fantasy squad an early bolt of electricity.

🎯 Three buy-low targets for your dynasty leagues. A TE gets a new opportunity.

🗓️ Circle these dates on your calendar. Revenge is a dish best served cold.

🤔 Jonathan Taylor or Kenneth Walker? Cast your vote.

Who’s Rising and Who’s Falling In ADP Over The Last 7 Days?

More drafts, more news, more fantasy football ADP shifts.

Draft season is approaching.

Every Monday, we will be taking a look at some of the latest risers and fallers in Underdog best ball drafts. This week, we’re taking a look at a pair of Tampa Bay skill position players, along with a Round 2 wide receiver.

Let’s go.

📈 Ted Hurst | WR | TB

• ADP shift: Up 15.6 spots

No player has seen their ADP spike more over the last seven days than Hurst, and it all stems from one report out of Tampa Bay.

Last week, new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson pointed out that Emeka Egbuka will primarily play the “Z” position in the Bucs offense, but also mentioned how Hurst gives the team a true “X.” 

OK then.

Because we’re in May, everyone drafting is running with this news, boosting Hurst’s ADP by nearly 16 spots. And sure, Hurst is a very viable and fun late-round wideout to target, but this report should not be viewed as the Bucs saying “Ted Hurst is our starting outside receiver.” While Egbuka may primarily play the flanker role, he can certainly play the X, too. I also struggle to believe that Hurst is immediately going to take a starting role over Jalen McMillan, who Tampa Bay ran 56% of the routes when healthy from Week 15 on last year. 

Given the Egbuka news, the Tampa Bay wideout who should be rising is Chris Godwin, who will man the slot position for the Bucs. Always more efficient from the inside, Godwin’s splits over his last 16 regular-season games are pretty glaring.

Feel free to take shots on both Hurst and McMillan late in drafts. But if you ask me, factoring in value, Godwin (WR42) is the Tampa Bay wideout to draft. 

📉 Malik Nabers | WR | NYG

• ADP shift: Down 5 spots

We already knew Nabers’ Week 1 status was in question following his ACL tear. Still, he remained a mid-second-round pick in fantasy drafts. But following the report that the Giants’ star wideout underwent a second surgery to clean some things up, his ADP now has him toward the end of Round 2. The Giants have remained hopeful that Nabers will be ready to go for Week 1, though their remarks haven’t exactly screamed confidence. Here’s what Giants GM Joe Schoen said back in January:

“Malik is trending to hopefully be ready for training camp,” Schoen said. “Things can change … but that’s the hope.”

If Nabers continues to get positive updates over the course of training camp, he will (and should) be bumped back to the top of the second round of fantasy drafts. In his lone full season in the NFL, he led the league in target share (35%) and targets per game (11.3), while ranking sixth in fantasy points per game (18.2).

Injury Update On The People’s Tight End

George Kittle suffered his injury in the Wild Card round and, while his recovery seems to be going well this offseason, it remains to be seen if he'll be a full-go for Week 1. If I had to make that bet right now, I would assume he will not be fully ready for the season opener. In fact, our fantasy football projections are in line with that. Here's how they currently look:

• 13 games played

• 70 targets

• 56 receptions

• 675 receiving yards

• 4.6 TDs

• 151 PPR (11.6 PPG)

Ultimately, our projections have Kittle finishing as the TE13. He's currently the TE9 on Underdog, which seems fair. While he may not be fully healthy for the start of the season, we have plenty of evidence to remind us how much of a game-changer he is at a naturally scarce position.

Specific to the 49ers' projections, Kittle is right in line to compete with Ricky Pearsall as the No. 3 pass-catching option behind both Mike Evans and Christian McCaffrey. We've seen this offense support multiple fantasy stars in the past, and this season appears to be no different. In fact, I'm not sure we've ever been more bullish on Brock Purdy. He's slotted in as our QB7 in our early-offseason projections.

Even if Kittle takes a bit to become a full-time player each week, there should be more than enough points scored on this team to support Kittle for however long he's available.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

📈 With Mahomes on the mend … what’s happening to the Chiefs’ rankings in fantasy land?

🤔 All of the hype surrounding the Jags RBs, but should you be selling one of them?

👀 Is there a case for Christian McCaffrey as THE RB1 in 2026? Ian and Dwain dig in.

📝 Have your rookie draft coming up? Our rookie rankings are here to help.

🚨 ICYMI: Track every bye week of 2026 and draft accordingly.

Years Of Guarantees With Josh Allen

If you’ve had Josh Allen in fantasy any year since 2020, you’ve been more than happy. He’s been the QB1 five times in that span, the only year he didn’t finish up top being 2022 when he fell all the way to QB2. He just finished his followup to his 2024 NFL MVP season with 3,668 passing yards and 25 TDs, adding 579 rushing yards and 14 more scores on the ground. Betting against him continuing his fantasy dominance for another five years would be ill-advised.

That’s exactly what the Xfinity 5-Year Price Guarantee means for your wallet: 5 years. The same price. No contracts or commitments. Just peace of mind knowing your connection, and your cost, will go the distance. Sports can be unpredictable, but your internet price doesn’t have to be. Get a reliable price for the most reliable, fiber-powered WiFi. Only with Xfinity.

_{Restrictions apply. Select plans only. Xfinity internet is powered by fiber and connected to premises by coaxial cable. Most reliable claim based on Opensignal Awards USA: Fixed Broadband Report, May 2025: XB6+}

Buy-Low Targets For Dynasty Fantasy Football

You don’t need me to tell you that dynasty is all about the long game. But to paraphrase Lloyd Christmas, there are some leagues where the trades flow like wine and active managers flock to the group chat like the salmon of Capistrano. 

And in those trade-heavy leagues, it can be advantageous to flip some of the more fringe dynasty assets depending on the direction of the wind. So if the early-season schedules look especially favorable for a player with relatively low value, we shouldn’t hesitate to go after them. 

If they give us a boost early on as we expect, great, maybe we can offload them for an even bigger return once their schedules stiffen. And if they don’t give us that boost? Well, please send your strongly worded letters to Sam Wallace …

The Late-Round RB Sleeper Of 2026?

The Carolina Panthers spent a second-round pick on Jonathon Brooks back in 2024, and he's played in just three games over his first two seasons. With his return to health seemingly nearing completion, should dynasty managers be paying more attention to the still-only 22-year-old RB?

Let's rewind the clock a bit.

Courtesy of our Rookie RB Model, Brooks was the RB1 of a relatively weak RB class back in 2024. His model score of 75 would have put him fifth in the 2025 class and 29th overall dating back to 2017. However, he would have slotted in as the No. 2 option this year, just ahead of Jadarian Price (71).

Brooks missed most of his rookie season because of a late-season ACL tear in college, and then he re-tore the same ACL once he returned. He went on to miss the remainder of 2024 and all of 2025. He now qualifies as more than just a post-hype sleeper; he has just 12 total NFL touches to his name and none since Week 14 of 2024.

However, despite the brutal injuries and significant missed time, all signs are pointing to Brooks playing a significant role for the Panthers this season. He's been cleared by his doctor to take part in the offseason program, and he reportedly feels close to 100%. Our fantasy football projections are optimistic as well:

• 125 rushing attempts

• 552 rushing yards (4.4 YPC)

• 3.3 rushing TDs

• 23 receptions

• 166 receiving yards

• 4+ total TDs 

His projected finish is currently RB41.

Chuba Hubbard will likely get the first crack at lead-back duties, but Brooks should have no problem factoring in right away as either an RB2 or a strong 1B. Besides Hubbard, the only competition Brooks will have for touches is AJ Dillon and Trevor Etienne.

Here at Fantasy Life, we are pretty confident in Brooks beating out both of them for playing time and opportunities.

In a piece earlier this offseason, Dwain McFarland reminded us of some key metrics that made Brooks an intriguing rookie prospect just a few short seasons ago:

• He broke out with 1,139 rushing yards, 10 TDs and 6.1 yards per carry in his third season at Texas

• His career 34% missed-tackles-forced rate sits in the 83rd percentile since 2017

• His 4.1 yards after contact lands in the 60th percentile

Pass-catching upside is always something to look for in later-round RBs. While consistent rushing attempts might be more difficult to come by as the secondary option, a player who can be productive and efficient in the passing game can turn those higher-value touches into more fantasy points.

While there's certainly some intrigue for Brooks, I'm honestly a bit more excited about (and think he has more potential upside in) dynasty leagues. Adam Pfeifer recently noted that Brooks is moving up the board in early best ball drafts as managers are starting to take notice. Dynasty managers should be paying attention as well …

Bank on Drake Maye’s Rise to Stardom

For all the people who a year ago were calling Drake Maye a sleeper, who could have predicted a near-MVP season? After passing for 4,394 yards and 31 TDs, adding in 450 rushing yards and 4 scores, and finishing tied for fourth with 20.4 fantasy points per game, Maye has risen the ranks to superstar status. He’ll be 24, is projected for another big year and forward-thinking fantasy managers can see Maye as a QB they can count on for years to come.

UNest works the same way. You don't wait until your kid is 16 to start building their financial future. You start now, when time is your single greatest advantage. A tax-advantaged investment account that grows with your child, set up in under 10 minutes. The long game is always the smartest play, on the field and off it.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

👀 The Week 17 schedule is here. Game stacks and best ball playoff schedules to target.

📝 Mark your calendars. Every bye week, headlined by Week 11 …

🚀 After a breakout 2025, the sky is the limit for this offense in 2026.

😂 Did you miss the schedule release videos? The best of the best.

🗓️ Eight teams have two MNF games in 2026 … and not a single double-header?!

📉 From WR11 to WR23 … his stock is rapidly falling.

Are We Underrating Travis Etienne’s Upside In NO?

If you are not hunting for upside in your upcoming fantasy drafts, you are doing yourself a disservice. League-winning players rarely come from playing it safe.

There are plenty of indicators pointing to breakout potential, but one underrated category fantasy managers need to pay closer attention to is red-zone usage. After all, touchdowns are what swing matchups and win championships.

Let us dig into a few overlooked players who could see a major spike in opportunities where fantasy points matter most inside the red zone.

🔥 Travis Etienne | RB | NO

The New Orleans Saints feel like one of those teams ready to take a real step forward in 2026. Over their final eight games last season, New Orleans won five, and the momentum feels real. I’m bought in. In fact, they have a legitimate path to winning the NFC South.

Tyler Shough looks poised to build on last season’s progress, and adding rookie WR Jordyn Tyson in the first round should only help keep this offense moving. That is great news for Travis Etienne.

Etienne quietly set a career high with 67 red zone touches last season, finishing as the RB10, and there is every reason to believe that number climbs in a rejuvenated Kellen Moore offense. No Saints running back logged more than 20 red zone opportunities in 2025, making this a clear area of need near the goal line.

We have already seen what Moore can do with touchdown-heavy backs like Saquon Barkley and Ezekiel Elliott. If Etienne locks down that role in New Orleans, the touchdowns could come in waves. Double-digit scores for Etienne feel very much in play down in the Big Easy.

Get Out While You Still Can

We no longer have to beg for scraps and leaks; the NFL finally released the full schedule.

We can now use it to suss out any rough patches that our fantasy players might be up against and plan accordingly.

To be clear, not every player with a concerning early-season schedule should be traded. We’re still talking about dynasty here. We don’t jettison players based on one (fairly nebulous) data point. BUT, there’s a small subset of players that already had an uphill battle to meet their current dynasty values, and this was the straw that could break the dynasty manager’s back.

Here are some players you may want to trade away before the season gets underway ...

Jacoby Brissett | QB | ARI

Get what you can while you can, folks. Brissett is coming off a season where he averaged an outrageous 40 pass attempts per game, which allowed him to post a gaggle of top-10 fantasy performances and make him a bit of a Superflex darling.

We already expected Brissett’s pass attempts to decrease drastically, in no small part because the team heavily invested in Jeremiyah Love. Then, of course, we have to factor in his ongoing contract dispute. 

And now, even if the 33-year-old QB gets paid and is ready to suit up in Week 1, he has to face the Seahawks, Rams and Broncos within the first seven weeks. All of those teams are in the top four of our D/ST rankings, by the way. So yes, “yikes” is the appropriate reaction. The Cardinals will also contend with the Chargers, Lions and 49ers in that stretch, and none of those defenses are slouches. In fact, the only drop of water in this barren desert of a fantasy schedule will come from the Giants in Week 4.

If things go as poorly for Brissett and company as I expect them to, we might see a healthy dose of third-round rookie Carson Beck to close out the season. In Superflex, see if any QB-needy teams would be willing to part with a 2027 second-round rookie pick.

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

⚡️ The No. 1 team to build around in your 2026 drafts? A breakout on tap.

😬 This team just can’t catch a break. Biggest losers from the schedule release.

👀 2026 is the best year to join an IDP league … strategy and draft targets to consider.

🔥 The NFL worked overtime on the Thanksgiving slate. Absolute bangers.

🎄 The same can be said about the Christmas slate. Some league-winning matchups.

🐴 This second-year TE might be the best buy at the position. And it’s not Colston Loveland.

🤔 Great, another WR on the Jets. Remember him.

Spring Reset

Start losing weight the right way through Hims today. Weight-loss treatment plans through Hims now include access to FDA-approved Wegovy® pills and injections to fit your lifestyle (no insurance required)—helping users lose up to 20% of bodyweight in 1 year.* It’s convenient, legit and refreshingly simple to get started. You’ll fill out an online assessment and, if a provider determines you're eligible, receive your prescription—you’ll also get a dedicated Care Team with 24/7 messaging and personalized support to guide you through treatment plans that fit your goals.

With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Instant Reactions To The 2026 NFL Schedule Release

The 2026 NFL schedule has been released. Let's party, people!

What follows are Ian Hartitz’s six takeaways that cover actionable early-season fantasy strategy, best ball playoff intel, which NFL social account video rankings and much more!

As always: It's a great day to be great.

Best NFL Schedule Release Videos

My top five:

1. Shoutout to the Colts for winning the day with their Simpsons-themed release. Extra points for the "We will not include Tyreek Hill in these videos" reference in the beginning. People don't forget!

2. The Chargers, per usual, crushed—this time with a Halo-themed release video. Yes, they referenced the thing.

3. The Titans continue to crush these—this time matching up their schedule with random lookalikes on the street. They seriously found a Myles Garrett twin.

4. The Bears leaned on Bob Ross–err, Rome Odunze to paint their schedule. Officially drafting Odunze every chance I get this offseason.

5. The Raiders squared up Fernando Mendoza and Kirk Cousins in a Step Brothers face-off. That's just good, clean, family fun right there.

The worst video goes to the Carindals. AI slop from arguably the worst franchise in the league. Be better!

Onto …

Quinshon Judkins Headlines Fantasy Winners From Schedule Release

We’ll see how good Cleveland’s opponents are at stopping the run in 2026, but honestly, we don’t even care about that.

We care about how good they are at scoring points.

Let us explain. Game script often plays a factor in what a running back can ultimately do on a weekly basis. But it especially impacts running backs who don’t offer a ton in the passing game. Because the Browns were once again a bad team last year, they found themselves trailing a lot, limiting Judkins’ volume. Last year, Cleveland ran 298 offensive plays when trailing by 10-plus points, the seventh-most in football. That did not bode well for Judkins’ late-game usage, as the rookie averaged just 3.7 fourth-quarter touches per game, which ranked 20th among all running backs. Judkins was Cleveland’s clear early-down option, but he ceded plenty of third-down/passing work to Dylan Sampson and Jerome Ford.

According to the Fantasy Life Utilization Report, Judkins logged just 9% of the long down and distance snaps, as well as 11% of the two-minute opportunities. You’d love to see an uptick in both departments in his second year, but even if the usage doesn’t climb too much, this schedule could make up for it.

We get it. The AFC North is absolutely brutal. But outside of that, there is a lot to like with Cleveland’s slate of opponents in 2026. They’ll face arguably the weakest division in football in the NFC South, with the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers being at home. But they also face the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets and New York Giants, all improving teams, but nothing that strikes any fear.

Sure, we’re not even in June yet. But it appears there will be a handful of games this season where the Browns aren’t chasing points:

• Week 3 - Carolina Panthers, 1.80 points per drive (27th)

• Week 5 - New York Jets, 1.49 (29th)

• Week 7 - Tennessee Titans, 1.44 (30th)

• Week 12 - Las Vegas Raiders, 1.32 (31st)

• Week 14 - Atlanta Falcons, 1.89 (25th)

More fantasy football winners from the schedule release ⤵️

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

🚨 De’Von Achane is staying in Miami. Four more years!

🔮 Is Garrett Nussmeier Patrick Mahomes’ long-term backup? Or a future starter elsewhere?

✌️ Jonathan Taylor is riding with some good company. This RB tier is still loaded.

🤔 Is Jaylen Waddle mispriced after the move to Denver? Expectations just might be Mile High.

⏱️ Tonight we get the official NFL schedule. We’re on Travis Hunter watch.

↗️ Speaking of Ted Hurst, he’s rising up in this rookie mock draft.

🕸️ George Kittle is a great husband. Brock Purdy isn’t the only one he protects.

🥖 You won’t believe which team is playing in Paris … they did it to themselves.

🔥 It’s Jahmyr Gibbs szn. Are you taking him or Bijan 1.01?

Fantasy Life Rankings Updated All Offseason

With the NFL Draft behind us, depth charts are “mostly” set. So the Fantasy Life crew has updated the rankings so we can all get an idea where some of our favorite players will get drafted this summer. And they’ll be updated as news breaks.

Are you taking Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs 1.01? See what the rankings say.

Are The Chargers THE Breakout Offense Of 2026?

The Chargers meet two of Dwain McFarland’s three criteria for a breakout offense, with a new playcaller and a talent influx, and doing it with one of the most consistently reliable top-10 QBs in fantasy football under center.

Playcaller Change ✅ → OC Mike McDaniel

McDaniel is one of the most creative offensive minds in the NFL. He grades out as one of the top-three-most influential playcallers over the last three years when it comes to fantasy, pushing the easy buttons that boost fantasy scoring at a high rate.

• Motion at the snap: 69% (2nd of active playcallers)

• Two-WR sets: 46% (2nd)

• Play Action: 27% (4th)

His arrival at Miami, along with Tyreek Hill, coincided with two of the largest offensive jumps since 2020, turning a stagnant Dolphins offense into a fantasy goldmine.

Influx of Talent ✅ → Offensive Line + Versatility and Speed

This is less about a single flashy addition and more about getting healthy while adding extra pieces that mobilize McDaniel's vision for the offense. Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, two of the better tackles in football, both missed significant time in 2025 due to injuries, totaling 17 and 11 games, respectively. Los Angeles also added three new interior offensive linemen:

• LG: Jake Slaughter (Round 2, 2026 NFL Draft Pick)

• C: Tyler Biadasz (Free Agent)

• RG: Cole Strange (Free Agent)

The Chargers front office also added two TEs in Charlie Kolar and David Njoku, along with fullback Alec Ingold. These additional bodies give McDaniel the flexibility to use heavy personnel, leading to more two-WR sets and the potential for target consolidation.

Finally, the team injected NOS into their depth chart with RB Keaton Mitchell (4.37-second 40-yard dash) via free agency and Brenen Thompson (4.26-second 40-yard dash) in the draft. These two players might not have full-time roles, but they add explosive field-flipping upside to the offense.

These players join an already solid set of weapons:

• RB: Omarion Hampton, Kimani Vidal

• WRs: Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre' Harris

• TE: Oronde Gadsden

The Chargers are now equipped to run a balanced offense that can keep opposing teams off balance and win through efficiency rather than high volume. No team on this list has a cleaner path to offensive improvement.

Here's how I am projecting the key fantasy contributors heading into draft season in 2026:

2026 Chargers Fantasy Outlook

• Justin Herbert | QB: Low-end QB1 with high-end QB1 upside

• Omarion Hampton | RB: Low-end RB1 with mid-range RB1 upside

• Keaton Mitchell | RB: RB5 with upside

• Ladd McConkey | WR: Low-end WR2 with borderline WR1 upside

• Quentin Johnston | WR: Borderline WR4 with upside 

• Tre Harris | WR: Dart throw with upside

• Brenen Thompson | WR: Dart throw with upside

• Oronde Gadsden | TE: Mid-range TE2 with TE1 upside

Houston Texans Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet

It was hard not to feel sorry for C.J. Stroud. Watching him struggle through a relentless pass rush amid the freezing temperatures and snowy conditions in New England during a Divisional Round loss in January, the one-time wunderkind was picked off four times by the Patriots. It was almost enough to want to throw in the towel.

Stroud is likely only a superflex play as a second QB, but there are still important pieces in the Texans offense like Nico Collins and David Montgomery. Stroud’s play is going to be important to how those two, among others, perform in 2026. Because we know that suffocating defense is going to get them back the ball. ⤵️

NFC West Preview: One of These is not Like the Others

It must not be fun being the Arizona Cardinals. Set in the NFC West with behemoths like the Super Bowl champion Seahawks, and two high-scoring offenses in the Rams and 49ers, the Cards have a new coach in Mike LaFleur and are rebuilding. Dwain and Ian will break down the entire division, but the Cards are staring at 0-6 in their division. ⬇️

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

😏 Could the long-term QB answer already be in Cleveland? Not easy being green for the Browns.

⚡️ This speedy wideout for the Chargers will be a bolt of electricity for the offense.

👀 Worried about CMC’s big 2025 workload? History has its eyes on him.

⚾️ Can KC Concepcion play QB? He’s been active …

📈 Is Jennings a great fit in Minny? The beats think so.

🤓 Are you interested in every single offensive line starter? Here ya go, sicko.

⌚️ We are still waiting on Aiyuk to move … the clock is ticking.

🔮 If Malik Willis could just start 17 games … oh, the possibilities.

😢 If you draft RBs in this tier, the only tears you’ll see are from your opponents.

Spring Reset

Start losing weight the right way through Hims today. Weight-loss treatment plans through Hims now include access to FDA-approved Wegovy® pills and injections to fit your lifestyle (no insurance required)—helping users lose up to 20% of bodyweight in 1 year.* It’s convenient, legit and refreshingly simple to get started. You’ll fill out an online assessment and, if a provider determines you're eligible, receive your prescription—you’ll also get a dedicated Care Team with 24/7 messaging and personalized support to guide you through treatment plans that fit your goals.

With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Kendall’s Mailbag: Getting a Bead on Tyler Shough

Could Tyler Shough be one of those QBs drafted as a backup who becomes a fantasy starter before long? It happens every year, and Kendall Valenzuela in her latest mailbag makes the case for the Year 2 QB as one to target for fantasy managers to draft and stash in the summer months. And contrary to some opinions, cooterdoodle did not submit the question to give Shough some time in the spotlight. Kendall mentioned several other gems to be uncovered for the coming season. ⤵️

Packers Cheat Sheet: Jordan Love Ready for QB1 Season?

Holding a 21-6 lead going into the fourth quarter of their Wild Card matchup against NFC North rival Chicago, Green Bay saw the Bears roar to 25 fourth-quarter points to pull off a 31-27 victory with 1:43 left on a DJ Moore TD reception from Caleb Williams. That’s how close they were to advancing in the playoffs and then, who knows what?

Jordan Love’s 2023 season gave us a peek at his great ability, as he passed for 4,159 yards and 32 TDs—adding 4 scores on the ground. Since then he’s passed for 25 and 23 TDs, respectively, in consecutive seasons. He could be the key to the Packers taking further steps in raising an offense that features plenty of important players for fantasy football. Check out Dwain McFarland and Ian Hartitz’s cheat sheet. ⬇️

Seattle Seahawks Ready For A Repeat?

Jaxon Smith-Njigba is coming back for WR1 status again. Jadarian Price, how high is too high to draft him? Can Sam Darnold lead them back to the promised land? Dwain McFarland and Ian Hartitz preview all things Seahawks. Subscribe to the Fantasy Football Is Life channel and don’t miss an episode of this great series.

Around The Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news and memes from our merry band of football nerds …

🦁 The Lions still have a roaring good offense. And they’re primed for another big season.

🫶🏼 Jeremiyah Love or Trey McBride in Round 2? Big decision early in the draft.

🫡 Possible sleeper RB in DC. Ready to break out for the Commanders?

🦅 Could we see Malik Willis 2.0 in Philly? Maybe not just a left-handed complement.

💪 Ty Simpson goes where in this mock? Be patient.

🤑 Another kicker gets paid. Good for a team that will be settling for a lot of FGs.

😡 Ugh, another Aaron Rodgers update. When will this end?

👀 Kaelon Black a reach? Ask him if he thinks so.

Chase Glory For The Next 5 Years

The accomplishments are already significant for Ja’Marr Chase. OROY in 2021, compiling 1,455 receiving yards and 13 TDs. Again, he was a rookie! An otherworldly 127-1,708-17 Triple Crown season in 2024. Last season, with QB Joe Burrow missing nine games, Chase still posted a solid 125-1,412-8. He’s 26 and that’s his floor production. You can lock him in for more big production the next five seasons, and likely beyond.

That’s exactly what the Xfinity 5-Year Price Guarantee means for your wallet: 5 years. The same price. No contracts or commitments. Just peace of mind knowing your connection, and your cost, will go the distance. Sports can be unpredictable, but your internet price doesn’t have to be. Get a reliable price for the most reliable, fiber-powered WiFi. Only with Xfinity.

_{Restrictions apply. Select plans only. Xfinity internet is powered by fiber and connected to premises by coaxial cable. Most reliable claim based on Opensignal Awards USA: Fixed Broadband Report, May 2025: XB6+}

The “Almost Perfect” Tier of RBs For 2026

The running back position is so back, baby. After years of the league becoming increasingly pass-heavy, the run game is making a resurgence. Add in the fact that most running backs are now pass-catching threats out of the backfield, and there has been an uptick in scoring at the position. Last season, 15 different running backs eclipsed 200 fantasy points in 0.5-PPR scoring. That figure was merely five a decade ago.

Four different players eclipsed 325 half-PPR points at the position, and having a true stud running back remains one of the biggest possible edges in fantasy football. Let’s dive into the current top 12 options in our fantasy football rankings and start by highlighting the Tier 2 options …

Tier 2 – Almost Perfect

4. James Cook

5. Jonathan Taylor

6. Kenneth Walker

7. De’Von Achane

8. Ashton Jeanty

This tier of players all have the potential to perform like Tier 1 studs. However, they also have at least one red flag each that keeps them out of the top tier.

Let’s start with Cook. He’s probably the safest option of the bunch, which is why he tops this tier. He led the league in rushing yards and rushing yards per game last season, and he also took on a greater role as a receiver down the stretch. His target share jumped up from just 6% through the first nine weeks to 9% from Week 10 on. That’s not a huge increase, but it was a solid development for his fantasy outlook. The big issue with Cook is that he shares a backfield with Josh Allen, who is always a threat to steal a score or two around the goal line. Cook had just 40% of the Bills’ carries from inside the 5-yard line last season, which is far from ideal for a fantasy stud.

Taylor’s biggest red flag is that he simply doesn’t catch passes. It’s not that he can’t catch; he had an 83.6% catch rate last season, but he doesn’t get nearly the same type of usage as the top running backs in fantasy. He does the vast majority of his damage on the ground, and he is undoubtedly one of the best in the business in that department.

Walker has long been one of the most talented RBs in football, ranking first in PFF’s positional grades last season. He’s been held back by having to share the rock with Zach Charbonnet in Seattle, and that shouldn’t be an issue in Kansas City. Unfortunately, the Chiefs had one of the worst rushing attacks in football last season, and they were 25th in ESPN’s Run Block Win Rate. The Seahawks were eighth in that metric, so even if Walker gets a larger percentage of his team’s touches, he could find the sledding much more difficult.

Achane is an elite talent at the position, especially as a receiver. His spot in Tier 2 has more to do with his team than himself. The Dolphins are expected to be more or less a disaster next season, so scoring opportunities could be hard to come by. He should still see plenty of volume, but it’s hard to be a top-flight RB with the potential for double-digit scores.

Jeanty was a blue-chip prospect in last year’s draft, but he’s coming off a disappointing rookie campaign. Most of that stems from the Raiders’ dismal offensive line, with Jeanty averaging just 1.6 yards before contact per attempt. That was one of the worst figures in the league among high-volume runners, so hopefully, the revamped Raiders’ offensive line helps open things up for him a bit more next season.

Josh Downs is Moving Up … In ADP

One of the perceived big winners of this offseason has been the Colts’ Josh Downs. With Michael Pittman Jr. now in Pittsburgh, Downs climbs up the target pecking order in Indianapolis. According to our current projections, he’s trailing Alec Pierce by only 3 targets. Yet almost three rounds separate them in ADP. People are taking notice, because Downs is one of the players climbing in ADP. Adam Pfeifer surveyed Underdog ADP to find who’s rising … and falling.

Who’s in the S-Tier of Quarterbacks?

Josh Allen finishing among the top 2 QBs in fantasy since 2020 has been about as predictable as the sunrise. Yet there have been others to join him among the elites like Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes and last year even Drake Maye. Should Allen continue to stand alone? Where do the other QBs stand AFTER Allen is placed on his throne? Subscribe to the Fantasy Life Show so you never miss an episode.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

📈 His price is rising faster than the pump at your local gas station. Get in on this WR asap.

🤔 Is Jeremiyah Love’s ADP too high, too low or just right? How to draft the rookie.

🚨 ICYMI: What to watch for during Thursday’s NFL schedule release.

📺 The UFL is now interviewing referees after non-PI calls. This is electric television.

🗽Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo are still best friends. Headbutt chemistry: Elite.

It’s Time To Buy-In On Fernando Mendoza

Just think, last summer, Fernando Mendoza was an afterthought in the college football landscape. A nondescript transfer to Indiana, all Mendoza did was lead the Hoosiers on an epic 16-0 run, completing 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 TDs on the way to winning the Heisman Trophy. He also threw in a gritty game-sealing TD run for the ages that locked down the first national championship for Indiana. All that before recently being the first pick in the NFL Draft of the Las Vegas Raiders. Everything seems to be going up for Mendoza and those who believed in him. A bright NFL future is in front of him.

UNest works the same way. You don't wait until your kid is 16 to start building their financial future. You start now, when time is your single greatest advantage. A tax-advantaged investment account that grows with your child, set up in under 10 minutes. The long game is always the smartest play, on the field and off it.

Three-Round Superflex Rookie Mock Draft

Jake Trowbridge here. You might be asking yourself, “Isn’t a one-man dynasty rookie mock draft just like … your dynasty rookie rankings?” And sure, if you wanna be a Simple Susan about it, I guess that’s technically true.

But where’s the pizazz in that?? Besides, this way I get to snipe myself, which is always fun. And no, that’s not a euphemism. Let’s get into it with some of the standout picks in my mock draft …

👀 1.02 - Makai Lemon | WR | PHI

Sure, you could draft Fernando Mendoza here because of positional scarcity. But that’s just playing scared! I’m not going to pass up my pre-draft WR1, who should be a focal point in the Eagles' new-look offense.

I also acknowledge that I’m on an island with this opinion. But what can I say? I’m a loner, Dottie. A rebel.

📈 1.07 - Jadarian Price | RB | SEA

This might be the best fit of the entire NFL Draft. Price could get a horse-sized workload while Zach Charbonnet works his way back from injury. But even if he gets stuck in a messy split, no running back is better suited to squeeze fantasy points out of limited opportunities than the ultra-efficient Notre Dame product.

🤔 2.01 - De'Zhaun Stribling | WR | SF

There are two schools of thought on this 49ers pick:

1. Stribling is another in a long line of odd WR picks by John Lynch who’s doomed to fail.

2. Lynch and the organization have taken so much heat for the pick that they’re going to force Stribling down our throats whether he’s actually good or not.

The possibility of the latter makes him enticing.

😬 3.02 - Carson Beck | QB | ARI

This is Superflex, and we can’t turn a blind eye to any rookie QB with the potential to start games at some point this season (6, by our projections). Jacoby Brissett isn't exactly bulletproof, after all.

⚡️ 3.12 - Brenen Thompson | WR | LAC

Let’s end this with a bang. Mike McDaniel told everyone in the draft room he’d take his shirt off if the Chargers drafted this little speedster. And McDaniel doesn’t exactly reek of Thor’s workout routine. He’s going to try his best to make Thompson a thing.

Bo Nix Got Some Help Waddle-ing Onto The Broncos

Nothing like turning a late first-round pick in the draft into a player in his prime at a position of need that will simultaneously make QB Bo Nix better. That’s what the Broncos did in trading for 27-year-old Jaylen Waddle. He of the three 1,000-yard seasons and four campaigns earning 100+ targets. Mission accomplished, Broncos. Now we get to see how Waddle complements Courtland Sutton—our projections have Waddle winning the target competition 118-108—and if the passing game will work well with the three-headed RB monster that is JK Dobbins, RJ Harvey and Jonah Coleman.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

💪 A second-year TE projected to lead the team in targets. Top-five positional upside, potentially?

🎯 Three late-round darts to draft. Get in before inflation hits.

🚨 ICYMI: Dynasty rookie draft sleepers in an underwhelming rookie class.

👀 Is A Week 1 return in the cards for Patrick Mahomes? Oh baby…

📈 This rookie WR is “a touchdown waiting to happen”.

Chase Glory For The Next 5 Years

The accomplishments are already significant for Ja’Marr Chase. OROY in 2021, compiling 1,455 receiving yards and 13 TDs. Again, he was a rookie! An otherworldly 127-1,708-17 Triple Crown season in 2024. Last season, with QB Joe Burrow missing nine games, Chase still posted a solid 125-1,412-8. He’s 26 and that’s his floor production. You can lock him in for more big production the next five seasons, and likely beyond.

That’s exactly what the Xfinity 5-Year Price Guarantee means for your wallet: 5 years. The same price. No contracts or commitments. Just peace of mind knowing your connection, and your cost, will go the distance. Sports can be unpredictable, but your internet price doesn’t have to be. Get a reliable price for the most reliable, fiber-powered WiFi. Only with Xfinity.

_{Restrictions apply. Select plans only. Xfinity internet is powered by fiber and connected to premises by coaxial cable. Most reliable claim based on Opensignal Awards USA: Fixed Broadband Report, May 2025: XB6+}

How High Is CeeDee Lamb’s 2026 Ceiling?

CeeDee Lamb's last four season-long finishes in PPR points per game: WR7, WR1, WR7 and most recently WR12. Of course, George Pickens squeezed targets a bit more than usual in 2025. Lamb still led the way in targets (116 vs. 99) and PPR points (16.6 vs. 16.1) during their 12 full games together, but the competition is enough to push Lamb outside fantasy's consensus top-four receivers for the first time in a minute.

That said, In 11 healthy games, he averaged 16.5 points with a 28% target share and 2.29 YPRR—great numbers. At 27, he's still in his prime on one of the league's most durable passing offenses. Dak Prescott has averaged 277 passing yards over three seasons in healthy games—well above the 230 NFL average. Even sharing targets with Pickens, Lamb remains a locked-in WR1 worth targeting in Round 1.

What does that mean for George Pickens’ value in 2026? ⬇️

Schedule Release Predictions And Notes For Thursday

We won't officially know the 2026 NFL schedule until Thursday, May 14th. But we do know which teams will be playing each other, and this gives us some room for NFL schedule release predictions. 

While we wait for the dates, let's look for some of the best matchups in 2026.

Jaguars vs Week 1 Opener

This is turning into our annual "Travis Hunter watch." After he was drafted, we all wanted to know how much time Hunter would be splitting between both sides of the ball. 

And a year later, we're asking the same questions.

Despite Hunter's usage that leaned heavily toward offensive snaps in 2025, GM James Gladstone recently dropped the bomb that JAX wants to increase Hunter's time at CB.

If you draft him in fantasy, you're hoping for that sweet, sweet "Week 7 Travis Hunter" that went 8-101-1 against the Rams. Either way, we'll all be watching.

Spring Reset

Start losing weight the right way through Hims today. Weight-loss treatment plans through Hims now include access to FDA-approved Wegovy® pills and injections to fit your lifestyle (no insurance required)—helping users lose up to 20% of bodyweight in 1 year.* It’s convenient, legit and refreshingly simple to get started. You’ll fill out an online assessment and, if a provider determines you're eligible, receive your prescription—you’ll also get a dedicated Care Team with 24/7 messaging and personalized support to guide you through treatment plans that fit your goals.

With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

💤 Don’t sleep on Terrance Ferguson late in drafts. And a couple others.

🏈 The No. pass-game option in Cleveland may not be a WR. Hello, Harold Fannin.

⛓️‍💥 If you’re into RB handcuffs, Kaelon Black, may be one answer.

🙌 Could Zachariah Branch command targets in Atlanta? Competition is stiff.

👁️ Keep an eye on Nicholas Singleton. Titans backfield is jammed, but no world beaters.

👀 A 12-team mock draft, with Justin Jefferson as a bargain.

🌕 How high is Ja’Marr Chase’s ceiling? The moon is pretty high.

🤩 Jonathan Taylor and James Cook are in a tier of their own.

Editors’ Picks

ICYMI, here are some popular stories from this week …

Freedman’s Favorites Who’s rising up the rankings? Matthew Freedman drops his favorite players after the draft.

Love Letter To My League Do you have that league that hits the right spot? Cooterdoodle wrote about that league. We should all have THAT league, if we’re lucky.

Bounceback QBs Go ahead, we dare you to pass on Lamar Jackson and Jayden Daniels Ian Hartitz ranked the top 12 QBs, with some bouncebacks and others rising up.

Breece Hall Won’t Escape NY After Signing 3-Year Deal

Not so quietly—can anything be quiet in New York?—the Jets have remade their offense this offseason. With Geno Smith and a pair of first-round rookie pass catchers—Kenyon Sadiq and Omar Cooper—New York has fortified a side of the ball that was not fun to watch last year. Now the Jets have soldified one of the engines to the offense, with Breece Hall signing a three-year, $45.7M extension.

Not yet 25, Hall’s still in his prime. With an improved o-line and a healthy Garrett Wilson to keep the defense honest, could a big year be coming up? If Smith can elevate the offense, Hall’s RB16 designation in both our rankings and projections might be low.

Patrick Mahomes Injury Update: Ready Week 1?

Watching Patrick Mahomes get helped off the field at Arrowhead Stadium last December, it was easy to think the worst. A torn ACL was confirmed, which immediately put the start of the 2026 season in jeopardy for Mahomes.

Let’s remember this is the same warrior who played a Super Bowl with a badly sprained ankle and led the Chiefs to a thrilling victory. Having surgery just days after the knee injury, reports are that Mahomes is shooting to play Week 1, which would be just about a week short of nine months since the surgery. Who’s going to bet against Mahomes? ⤵️

It’s a Best Ball Draft Battle Challenge!

Wait, no drafting players from the same division for the first six picks? That was Pete Overzet’s directive after spinning the challenge wheel with Kendall Valenzuela and cooterdoodle … all while drafting an Underdog best ball team. Subscribe to the Fantasy Life channel to watch this show and so you won’t miss an episode.

Bank on Drake Maye’s Rise to Stardom

For all the people who a year ago were calling Drake Maye a sleeper, who could have predicted a near-MVP season? After passing for 4,394 yards and 31 TDs, adding in 450 rushing yards and 4 scores, and finishing tied for fourth with 20.4 fantasy points per game, Maye has risen the ranks to superstar status. He’ll be 24, is projected for another big year and forward-thinking fantasy managers can see Maye as a QB they can count on for years to come.

UNest works the same way. You don't wait until your kid is 16 to start building their financial future. You start now, when time is your single greatest advantage. A tax-advantaged investment account that grows with your child, set up in under 10 minutes. The long game is always the smartest play, on the field and off it.

Editors’ Picks

In about 3+ months when you’re OTC in your draft, you’ll be glad for taking a few moments to read this great content …

Saints March on NFC South? Are the Saints this year’s Patriots? Matt LaMarca breaks down the similarities, as well as the odds of two other teams to go over/under their projected wins before the NFL schedule release.

Bengals 2026 Cheat Sheet The Bengals will ride as high as Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and company take them. Dwain McFarland and Ian Hartitz provide quick-hitting analysis on one of the funnest teams for fantasy goodness.

DROY Odds Rueben Bain or David Bailey, who you got for DROY? Adam Kaufman identifies who are the favorites and a longshot for the coveted award.

Running Back Handcuff Tiers: S is for …

Handcuffs? For fantasy football, some people are into that sorta thing. And for those who are, Ian Hartitz does a really thorough job of putting them in tiers. Blake Corum? TreVeyon Henderson? They might be starters some places. Ian even channels Lloyd Christmas for some players who are clear longshots for playing time, but you really never know. These tier breakdowns are helpful when it comes to either drafting these players late or taking chances on rookies at other positions. But take them before kickers.⤵️

Is the ADP Price Just Right for Jadarian?

It really looks like Jadarian Price is going to be one of the most hotly debated players this draft season. On the one hand he’s a very talented runner, athletic (4.50 40-yard dash) and had first-round draft capital to the Super Bowl champion Seahawks. On the other hand, he was never the starter at Notre Dame —even playing with future NFL talents Jeremiyah Love and Audric Estime.

Even in a backfield where arguably the best healthy RB is the lightly accomplished Emanuel Wilson—Zach Charbonnet will be less than seven months past ACL surgery when the season starts—Price is dealing with a new OC and the usual rookie learning curve. Kody Malstrom goes into further depth to see if the Price is right at this ADP.

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

🥶 Jauan Jennings has a new home. Cold outside, but plenty warm indoors.

👀 Since Kyler Murray got another weapon. Time to rise him up the rankings.

🙌 K9 in Tier 3 RBs? Some good company.

🕶️ Blind tier Rankings for QBs. Where to put Bo Nix?

💪 I don’t fall for spring workout clips, but … I am excited for this back in fantasy.

😯 A super deep rookie WR sleeper? Some glowing praise from Ben Johnson.

🔮 Want to simulate the 2027 NFL Draft? Knock yourself out.

🏈 The Saints added more than one WR. Trey’s little brother has some juice.

RB Handcuff Rankings

And if you want to hear Ian talking about the RB Handcuff Tiers, let’s see what he thinks of Mike Washington and other rookies going into backup roles. And after listening, please remember to subscribe to this new channel.

Time to Buy Jeremiyah Love Making The NFL Leap

Few things are as breathtaking and fun to watch as Jeremiyah Love hurdling over defenders during his Notre Dame days. Many of those jumps set him loose on long runs on the way to amassing 3,016 scrimmage yards and 40 TDs for this multi-talented weapon who is taking his talents to Arizona. He’s not yet 21, and appears to have as bright an NFL future as any of the players just drafted. Now it’s time for forward-thinking fantasy managers to act when Love’s available in fantasy drafts in the months ahead.

UNest works the same way. You don't wait until your kid is 16 to start building their financial future. You start now, when time is your single greatest advantage. A tax-advantaged investment account that grows with your child, set up in under 10 minutes. The long game is always the smartest play, on the field and off it.

Risers In Kendall’s Latest Rankings Update

The draft is in our rearview mirror and OTAs on the horizon, it's time to dive into the latest updates across each position in my 2026 fantasy football rankings.

📈 Luther Burden | WR | CHI

This offense is on the rise and going to be expensive in fantasy drafts this season. DJ Moore is no longer in the picture, which helps Luther Burden, Colston Loveland and Rome Odunze. Burden is the one who's been a consistent riser in my rankings. Do I believe he's going to be Ben Johnson's new Amon-Ra St. Brown? I can't go that far, but I do believe we've only just scratched the surface of his potential.

His 2025 stats won't blow anyone away; during the regular season, he managed 47 receptions, 652 yards and two touchdowns. But damn, he was efficient!

Shoutout to Ian Hartitz for this stat: Just five rookie wide receivers have averaged north of 2.5 yards per route run over the last decade (min. 50 targets):

• Luther Burden (2.71)

• A.J. Brown (2.68)

• Justin Jefferson (2.66)

• Puka Nacua (2.6)

• Ja'Marr Chase (2.51)

Caleb Williams is on the rise and will hopefully continue to elevate this offense into 2026.

📈 Mark Andrews | TE | BAL

Highlighting an older tight end? Yeah, why not! Mark Andrews was fourth among tight ends in end zone targets last season, and I'm betting on more touchdowns for the 30-year-old tight end. Andrews scored five touchdowns last season and finished as the TE23 in fantasy points per game. It's been two down seasons for Andrews, but a new coaching staff and Isaiah Likely leaving are pivotal for an Andrews turnaround.

Likely and Charlie Kolar are now out of the picture. Likely has missed four games in two seasons, and when he was out, Andrews saw 80% route participation and averaged 12.2 fantasy points per game.

He's going to score more touchdowns in an offense that's hungry to prove that a Super Bowl is within reach.

Our Inaugural 2026 Fantasy Football Mock Draft

The 2026 Fantasy Life magazine will hit shelves before we know it, and, as always, it includes a 12-person fantasy football mock draft entirely made up of our staff. This year's had no shortage of drama, and Chris is going to break it down ...

“[Josh] doesn’t know it yet, but his last pick just sent us into a lifelong feud. Some real Scorpion vs Sub Zero type stuff…” – Jake

“Fwiw, I hate my team. Glad we aren't playing this out. The pause thing screwed me for two picks.” – Matthew

“Good.” – Cooterdoodle

No doubt you’ve been a part of similar banter in mock drafts before. And the vibes are no different for us here at Fantasy Life. On the one end, we get trash talk to our friends as they have “connection issues” leading them to auto a player they didn’t want or some other excuse. But on the flip side, we can learn how to navigate building a roster and how drafts are unfolding for the upcoming season.

The First Round

There were no shockers in the first 12 picks. The crew stayed within ADP to cap off the first round. However, sitting at the 1.09, I’ve got to say, the available options had more questions to them than I remember.

• 1.09 (Me) – Justin Jefferson

• 1.10 (Matthew) – Jonathan Taylor

• 1.11 (Joe) – Drake London

• 1.12 (Ian) – Rashee Rice

(Editor's Note: Do you understand how bullshit it is to have to draft between Matthew Berry and Ian Hartitz? Fantasy football is fun, they say ...) - Joe

First off, three of the four players are newcomers to the Top 12. Well, it’s been a couple of years since Jonathan Taylor was a first-rounder, but you know what I mean. But look past the names. Their situations don’t scream first-round locks.

Justin Jefferson and Drake London will be catching passes from new QBs. Rashee Rice has yet to play a full season, and Patrick Mahomes’ Week 1 availability isn’t for certain. And the chances of Taylor and the Colts recapturing their two-month stretch of multi-touchdown games feel slim. To be clear, I can’t fault the guys for who they selected, but if you wind up with a late slot, plan to build around a lackluster open.

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

🐻 There may not be more hype around another team. Could a TE lead the team in targets?!

👺 Even the Cardinals mascot gets trolled. Tough scene.

👀 A potential late-round sleeper? The WR room is abysmal…

🤲 Please stop panicking about Travis Hunter. He’s still going to play WR.

🔍️ An insider perspective on the Alvin Kamara situation. Honey Badger has sources.

🤦 Russell Wilson is our generation’s Aaron Rodgers. Sigh.

Did You Notice That Jersey Swap? 👀

It’s almost a foregone conclusion that we’ll see A.J. Brown in a New England Patriots jersey this fall, so we might as well get used to it now, right?!

With a looming trade to New England on the horizon, where would A.J. Brown fall in the 2026 WR rankings? How high would DeVonta Smith and Makai Lemon move up boards? What would this do for Drake Maye vs. Jalen Hurts in the rankings?

All of those answers and more are available on the latest episode of the Fantasy Life Show on its BRAND NEW CHANNEL. ⬇️

Spring Reset

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With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Chase and Fannon Highlight Freedman’s Favorites

We know there will be a hot debate all summer over whether to take Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs at the 1.01. But why not Ja’Marr Chase? He’s a WR Triple Crown winner, is still in an offense with one of the top passers in Joe Burrow and he’s barely going into Year 6 of his career. What’s not to love? Matthew Freedman updated his rankings after the NFL Draft.

Since 2024, he's No. 1 in targets (360), receptions (252), receiving yards (3,120) and receiving TDs (25). Since he entered the league in 2021, Chase is No. 2  in targets (767), receptions (520), receiving yards (6,837) and receiving TDs (54).

Only 26 years old and still very much in his prime, Chase enters 2026 with a ceiling as high as the heavens and a floor higher than almost everyone else's ceiling. ⤵️

Kendall’s Mailbag: Did You Hear About Eli Heidenreich?

Since you’re here, you’ve probably heard that a little bird—actually a full-sized Ian Hartitz—has emphatically shared that “Eli Heidenreich had 1,000 receiving yards … AT NAVY!”. It happened. Look it up. And then he got drafted by the Steelers. Kendall Valenzuela got asked about whether Heidenreich might be a sleeper for the coming season, and she shared her thoughts in her latest mailbag:

I am not putting Heidenreich on my radar unless it's for dynasty formats. Jaylen Warren has been durable his whole career, and Pittsburgh signed Rico Dowdle this offseason. When we look at Dowdle over the last two seasons, he has been effective as a rusher (4.57 yards per carry) and had 50 targets both years, but last season he ended on a low note. It's obvious these two are leading the backfield for the Steelers in 2026, but behind them? I don't know if Kaleb Johnson is going to be in the doghouse for this new regime, but either way, he's not a surefire bet. ⬇️

Around the Watercooler

Our merry band of football nerds is back and bringing you the latest news, content and memes from the NFL universe …

🏴‍☠️ Could Stefon Diggs reunite with Kirk Cousins in Las Vegas? Roll the dice.

🤓 Projections for every rookie. Love the range of outcomes analysis.

🐆 How will the Panthers backfield break down? Jonathon Brooks will factor in.

🤔 Who is this year’s George Pickens? What a smash he was last year.

🔏 The Chiefs ink their new RB. Will he be relevant this year?

🚑️ Is Tucker Kraft fully recovered from his ACL? Here’s the latest.

💎 Nicholas Singleton is a hidden gem, who could be uncovered in Tennessee.

🙌 Olave and Tyson the new Chase and Higgins? Be a believer.

Chase Glory For The Next 5 Years

The accomplishments are already significant for Ja’Marr Chase. OROY in 2021, compiling 1,455 receiving yards and 13 TDs. Again, he was a rookie! An otherworldly 127-1,708-17 Triple Crown season in 2024. Last season, with QB Joe Burrow missing nine games, Chase still posted a solid 125-1,412-8. He’s 26 and that’s his floor production. You can lock him in for more big production the next five seasons, and likely beyond.

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Bounceback Seasons On Tap For Two Elite QBs?

Yeah, celebrating Cinco De Mayo with tacos and margaritas is cool, but have you ever read a breathtaking 1,433-word synopsis on the upcoming fantasy season's top-12 quarterbacks in Ian’s fantasy football rankings?!

As always: It's a great day to be great.

QB2: Lamar Jackson

• 2025 finish: QB16 in fantasy points per game

• 2026 ADP: QB2

Key Question: How concerning was Jackson's down year in 2025?

Jackson's ceiling might as well be the moon: The two-time MVP is responsible for two of the position's top-six highest-scoring single seasons … ever. However, 2025's QB16 finish in fantasy points per game featured the 29-year-old veteran averaging career-low marks in rushing yards (26.8) and attempts (5.2) per game. Hamstring, toe, knee, ankle and back injuries certainly didn't help matters; just realize QBs generally run less as they get older—it's possible Jackson's best years are in the rear-view mirror.

QB4: Jayden Daniels

• 2025 finish: QB17 in fantasy points per game

• 2026 ADP: QB4

Key Question: How rough was Daniels in 2025?

It wasn't great—Marcus Mariota largely outperformed Daniels in most relevant efficiency metrics, but at the same time, Daniels' lackluster numbers are skewed a bit by him (unfortunately) leaving early due to injury on three separate occasions. Overall, the 2024 Rookie of the Year managed to post top-10 per-game fantasy numbers during the first seven weeks of the season, and Daniels still joins Mike Vick, Justin Fields and Lamar Jackson as the only QBs in NFL history to average north of 40 career rushing yards per game. Even if Daniels struggles to replicate his 2024 real-life magic, fantasy fireworks are still expected thanks to his dual-threat playstyle.

Dwain’s 2026 Fantasy Projections For The Rookie Class

With the NFL Draft behind us, it's time to analyze rookie outlooks using the Fantasy Life Projection Model. We will look at the floor, median and Xfinity best ceiling projections for top draft picks, as well as some players who landed in spots where they could play immediately.

Let’s dive in, starting with a pair of buzzy wideouts …

Jordyn Tyson Fantasy Projections (WR, Saints)

• Floor Projection: 9.2 | 11.4 PPG

• Median Projection: 10.3 | 12.8 PPG

• Xfinity Best Ceiling Projection: 12.3 | 15.0 PPG

With a lack of strong receiving options after Tyson and Chris Olave, the Saints' offense projects as one of the most consolidated passing attacks in the NFL. Tyson dominated every step of the way in college, demanding a career target share of 28% (77th percentile). I have him taking over the WR2 role from Day 1 with an 88% route participation rate and a 21% target share.   

The big question in New Orleans is whether Tyler Shough can support two strong fantasy WRs. Last year, in eight starts, he averaged 260 passing yards. But here is the good news: I have taken a more tempered approach for Shough's 2026 projection at 238 per game. The bad news: the Saints project 26th in offensive TDs per game at 2.0. So, the model is accounting for multiple concerns, but Tyson still projects well for a rookie.

Tyson projects for 78 receptions, 947 yards and 5.3 TDs. 

Takeaway: Tyson projects as a mid-range WR3 with WR2 upside. Tyson is the WR33 in half-PPR projections and is an early Round 6 pick in fantasy drafts.

Makai Lemon Fantasy Projections (WR, Eagles)

• Floor Projection: 7.6 | 9.3 PPG

• Median Projection: 8.7 | 10.5 PPG

• Xfinity Best Ceiling Projection: 11.1 | 13.1 PPG

Lemon's projections assume that a trade for A.J. Brown occurs. In that scenario, he projects as the WR2 with an 84% route participation rate and a 19% target share. The Round 1 NFL Draft pick forecasts as the No. 2 option behind DeVonta Smith. Most of his Rookie Super Model comparisons reached WR3 levels in their first three seasons. 

There are some questions regarding whether Lemon will play in two-WR sets or just from the slot, where he primarily aligned at USC. That is why I didn't give Lemon an 88-90% route participation rate like Tate and Tyson. The 84% represents a rotation with Dontayvion Wicks in two-WR personnel groups and a near full-time role in three-WR sets. This also accounts for a smidge more 12-personnel utilization (two TEs) after the addition of Eli Stowers in Round 2.

With Kevin Patullo out and Sean Mannion in, I am projecting slightly more passing from the Eagles, along with more motion and creative alignments. That bumps Jalen Hurts from 202 yards per game up to 215 (26th). The Eagles project for 2.6 offensive TDs per game (10th).

When you put it all together, Lemon projects for 59 receptions, 711 yards and 5.3 TDs receiving. These projections could be low, but historically, even DeVonta Smith has been a WR2 or WR3 in fantasy as the No. 2 option for the Eagles, and he is the No. 6 WR prospect all-time in the Rookie Super Model vs. Lemon at No. 23.

Takeaway: Lemon projects as a mid-range WR4 with high-end WR3 upside in Year 1. He is the WR44 in half-PPR projections. In early fantasy drafts on Underdog, he is an early Round 7 pick.

Around The Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news and memes from our merry band of football nerds …

❤️ A love letter to your home league. Cooterdoodle’s league has gone through WHAT?!

📝 Jordyn Tyson vs. Carnell Tate. Who should you draft in 2026?

😴 Did Kendall uncover 2026’s deep sleeper? He had 1,000 receiving yards … at Navy!

📈 Is James Cook a top-three RB?? If he gets passing-down work, watch out.

👀 The Ravens are planning to carry how many QBs? Is Lamar OK, lol?!

✏️ Here’s another interesting QB signing. Makes sense as the Malik Willis replacement.

🤔 How many WRs are you taking over AJB on the Patriots? It’s a short list.

A New Home For Fantasy Football Sickos

Do you find yourself wanting more when it comes to fantasy football analysis? More data, more rankings, more debate … with NO time limit?

Welcome to the new home of Talk Data To Me, now on a new channel, Fantasy (Is) Life.

Come subscribe to get all of Dwain’s latest episodes of TDTM, starting with the breakdown of his rookie rankings and tiers with Matthew Freedman, and stay to see just how low Fernando Mendoza ranks …

Fantasy Life Rankings Updated All Offseason

With the NFL Draft behind us, depth charts are “mostly” set. So the Fantasy Life crew has updated the rankings so we can all get an idea where some of our favorite players will get drafted this summer. And they’ll be updated as news breaks.

Are you taking Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs 1.01? See what the rankings say.

Baltimore Ravens 2026 Cheat Sheet

For the first time in Lamar Jackson’s NFL career, he’ll have a head coach other than John Harbaugh. Jesse Minter is at the reins, with Declan Doyle taking over for Todd Monken as the OC and playcaller. What does that mean for Jackson, Derrick Henry and the rest of the Ravens’ flock?

Ian Hartitz and Dwain McFarland teamed up on a 32-part series of cheat sheets on every NFL team, focusing on projections, grades, depth charts and a look at Utilization for the squad. See if the Ravens are ready to get back into the playoffs. ⤵️

Arizona Cardinals Backfield Breakdown

You’re on the clock in the second round of a draft, Jeremiyah Love is in your cue and you’re ready to click his name. Visions of him hurdling NFL defenders after doing it almost at will at Notre Dame fill your brain. Then the name Tyler Allgeier pops in your head, and you wonder if he’ll vulture just enough touches close to the goal line to stymie your best-laid plans.

Matt LaMarca analyzed the Cardinals’ backfield to get an early read about how touches will be divided, and if there will be even a sliver of the pie left over for James Conner. With an offensive-minded coach coming from a system using two backs very well, could this still be a fantasy gold mine? ⤵️

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

💪 Could Brandon Sorsby enter the NFL Supplemental Draft? He could be the first QB taken since 2011.

🚀 Doing a heat check on Underdog ADP. See who’s rising.

🤩 Jeremiyah Love is in some good company of rookie RBs. No. 5 since 2017.

👀 If you need to draft a QB in rookie drafts and Fernando Mendoza is gone, consider Ty Simpson.

💸 Ready to buy in on Jordyn Tyson? Could be more than 1B in New Orleans.

🔮 Are you sure you can wait until Round 2 on Derrick Henry? Projections are he’s ageless.

🏴‍☠️ Could the Eagles have more suitors for AJ Brown’s services? Desert rising.

It’s Time For Buying In On Fernando Mendoza

Just think, last summer Fernando Mendoza was an afterthought in the college football landscape. A nondescript transfer to Indiana, all Mendoza did was lead the Hoosiers on an epic 16-0 run, completing 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 41 TDs on the way to winning the Heisman Trophy. He also threw in a gritty game-sealing TD run for the ages that locked down the first national championship for Indiana. All that before recently being the first pick in the NFL Draft of the Las Vegas Raiders. Everything seems to be going up for Mendoza and those who believed in him. A bright NFL future is in front of him.

UNest works the same way. You don't wait until your kid is 16 to start building their financial future. You start now, when time is your single greatest advantage. A tax-advantaged investment account that grows with your child, set up in under 10 minutes. The long game is always the smartest play, on the field and off it.

Editors’ Picks

It’s Sunday Funday, so enjoy this content we created for you …

Falcons Cheat Sheet What will this offense look like with potentially a new QB? Dwain McFarland and Ian Hartitz preview how Bijan Robinson and company shape up for 2026.

AZ RB Breakdown Is Jeremiyah Love going to get all the carries for the Cardinals? Matt LaMarca looks at Love, Tyler Allgeier and more options in Arizona’s RB room.

AJB To The Patriots? All signs post toward A.J. Brown relocating to the Northeast. Adam Pfeifer breaks down the fallout for this expected deal.

Buy or Sell These 3 Projections?

Brock Purdy may not be built like Josh Allen, but during the fantasy playoffs last year, he was money with three top-3 finishes to crown a lot of fantasy champions. Purdy is a player to take very seriously, as Adam Pfeifer took a look at our projections and broke down Purdy as well as two other players:

Purdy ended last season on a tear, averaging 225.9 passing yards, 2.3 passing touchdowns and 20.7 fantasy points per game once returning from injury in Week 11. His 7% touchdown rate trailed only Matthew Stafford, and that was with RB Christian McCaffrey accounting for 31.7% of the 49ers’ targets from inside the 10-yard line, the 10th-highest rate in football.

Best Ball Sleepers on DraftKings

When getting in the ring for DraftKings best ball contests, it’s best to be ready for the long haul. We’re talking 20 rounds, 240 players taken in 12-team contests, so when it comes toward the end, it’s time to dig DEEP.

Adam Kaufman identified seven players who can be late-round targets in these contests. Some players are coming off injuries, others are in muddied offensive environments and even some on new teams. They all could be options to pop occasionally during the season for some crucial best ball wins.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

🏃🏽‍♂️ Bhayshul Tuten appears ready for his time to shine. Big workload awaits.

🙌 Updating the Rookie Super Model for WRs. So many ballers.

🏈 And doing the same for rookie RBs. A whole lotta Love.

🅰️ Who aced their draft grades? Cowboys get incomplete for going all defense.

🏈 Ty Simpson enters the latest dynasty rankings. When will he play?

🚨 Malik Willis goes just a bit outside. Don’t let the receivers see.

🤔 Is Carnell Tate going too early in best ball drafts? You be the judge.

🐎 From last to first … setting the Golden Tempo.

It’s a Dynasty Rookie Rankings Battle

It’s a battle royale! Matthew Berry vs. Dwain McFarland vs. Matthew Freedman. No steel cage, just their dynasty superflex rankings duking it out over which ones should reign supreme. Playing referees are Kendall Valenzuela and cooterdoodle, who break down the rookies and declare whose rankings they agree with. Then they close it out with loser playlists.

Spring Reset

Start losing weight the right way through Hims today. Weight-loss treatment plans through Hims now include access to FDA-approved Wegovy® pills and injections to fit your lifestyle (no insurance required)—helping users lose up to 20% of bodyweight in 1 year.* It’s convenient, legit and refreshingly simple to get started. You’ll fill out an online assessment and, if a provider determines you're eligible, receive your prescription—you’ll also get a dedicated Care Team with 24/7 messaging and personalized support to guide you through treatment plans that fit your goals.

With the new Weight Loss Membership, you can get started for just $39 in your first month, then $149/month thereafter.** Whether you’re chasing better energy, more confidence, or just want to feel more in control, Hims is here to help you stick to the plan (even when your starting QB busts his ankle).

We’re proud to have Hims as a Fantasy Life partner. Their support keeps this newsletter free, fun and full of trade panic and waiver wire regret.

_{*Along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise. In a 68-week clinical study of Wegovy®, about 1 in 3 adults with obesity or with overweight and weight-related medical problems achieved 20% weight loss. Average weight loss achieved was 15%. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

_{**$149/mo price includes medication only, if prescribed. An active Hims Weight Loss Membership is required ($39 for the first month, auto-renews at $149/month thereafter). Membership is billed separately and does not include or guarantee a prescription. Medication is not available without a membership. Membership fee is not included.}

_{Not available in all 50 states. Prescription required. Weight Loss by Hims is a holistic program that includes nutrition support, technological tools, and medications prescribed based on what your provider determines is medically appropriate and necessary for you. See website for full details, important safety information, and restrictions. Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.}

Editors’ Picks

A little more quiet this weekend than last, right? Before you go out to smell the May flowers, here’s some great content we don’t want you to miss …

Early 2027 NFL Mock Drafts Let the Dante Moore-Arch Manning debate kick off. Kody Malstrom dug in and planted some flags in this way-too-early NFL mock draft for next year’s loaded QB class.

Buy/Sell These 3 Projections Brock Purdy’s TD rate could make him a bargain at ADP. Adam Pfeifer analyzed three player projections and whether he’s buying or selling them.

Best Ball Sleepers Who are some late-round picks to target? Adam Kaufman zeroed in on seven players who DraftKings players may be sleeping on.

WR Rookie Super Model Update: Who’s #1?

Yesterday, we brought you the RB Rookie Super Model update, fresh off the NFL Draft. Next up, the WRs, and we have a new player among the top receivers in the model’S 10-year history. That’s right, y’all, Carnell Tate is someone to take seriously in drafts. Here’s a snippet of Dwain McFarland’s breakdown:

The Rookie Super Model views Tate as a mid-Round 1 talent—he went higher, but comps closer to previous high picks not named Ja'Marr Chase and Malik Nabers due to a lower production rating. Still, he carved out a substantial role in a loaded Buckeyes offense as a contested-catch specialist who attacks all three levels. He's not a high-end YAC player, so chunk plays will come downfield, but TD upside is strong. With the Titans, Tate should immediately take over a full-time role and has a shot to lead the team in all receiving categories. He's a WR2 with WR1 upside.

Arizona Cardinals Cheat Sheet: Something to Love

Now under new HC Mike LaFleur, the Arizona Cardinals are staring down a rebuild. Jacoby Brissett is slated to start the season at QB, but Carson Beck got picked in the third round, so could he start eventually? Let’s not bury the lead. Jeremiyah Love is going to be the co-headliner of this offense with Trey McBride, and could be someone fun to watch this season, especially on fantasy rosters.

Ian Hartitz and Dwain McFarland gIve us a peek into the Cardinals’ depth chart, who could be top performers for fantasy, as well as sharing team projections for the coming season.

Around the Watercooler

The latest fantasy and NFL gossip, news, memes and more from our merry band of football nerds …

❤️ Matthew says there’s plenty to love about Jadarian Price. Nice backdrop, BTW.

👁️ Keep an eye on Mark Andrews. For those who want to wait at TE.

📬 Dynasty Mailbag is open. Wait, you’re in a 24-team league?

👀 ICYMI: We dropped a pair of dynasty mock drafts: Superflex and Single-QB.

 🏈 The Browns' new stadium is coming in 2029. A new chapter in Cleveland! 

🗣️ Russell Wilson will have a new employer in 2026. But maybe not in the industry you think!

💪 Carson Beck at the 2.09 in rookie drafts? If backed into a corner.