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ESPN fantasy football draft preparation has received a major update, with Adam Schefter identifying value picks and sleepers to target in 2026 leagues. Published Aug. 28, Schefter’s cheat sheet highlights players who could outperform their current average draft position, or ADP, across every major fantasy position.
The recommendations are divided into early, middle and later rounds based on 10-team league ADP. Schefter emphasized that the list is not intended to replace rankings, but rather to identify players who deserve extra consideration when draft-day choices are close. The strategy may be especially useful in deeper leagues, where several late-round options could carry meaningful value.
Powerful ESPN Fantasy Football Quarterback Sleepers
Quarterback depth is one of the biggest themes in Schefter’s 2026 fantasy football advice. While managers can still confidently select stars such as Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson early, the available talent makes it possible to wait and find production in the middle or late rounds.
Middle-round quarterback targets
- Bo Nix, Broncos — ADP 86.3: His rushing ability adds an important fantasy dimension to his passing production.
- Caleb Williams, Bears — ADP 92.2: After showing significant talent last season, Williams is expected to improve further in Ben Johnson’s offense.
- Justin Herbert, Chargers — ADP 106.0: His partnership with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel could lead to the best season of his NFL career.
Late-round quarterback values
Tyler Shough of the Saints, Jordan Love of the Packers and Daniel Jones of the Colts are among Schefter’s preferred late-round options. Shough is expected to continue developing after flashing potential as a rookie, while Green Bay officials believe Love is ready to take another step forward. Jones, meanwhile, was one of fantasy football’s better quarterbacks last season before suffering an injury and now appears healthy.
Explosive Running Back Picks to Prioritize
The running back position features several potential difference-makers at the top of drafts. Schefter believes Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson should be among the first two players selected in many leagues, while Chase Brown, Kenneth Walker III and Omarion Hampton also carry strong early-round appeal.
- Jahmyr Gibbs, Lions — ADP 1.4: With 38 touchdowns over the past two seasons, Gibbs remains one of the NFL’s most dangerous offensive weapons.
- Bijan Robinson, Falcons — ADP 2.5: Robinson’s all-around ability makes him a legitimate No. 1 overall candidate.
- Chase Brown, Bengals — ADP 21.9: As the lead back in a high-scoring offense, Brown offers rushing and receiving upside.
- Kenneth Walker III, Chiefs — ADP 22.3: After never finishing better than RB18, Walker is positioned for a major jump in 2026.
- Omarion Hampton, Chargers — ADP 25.3: Health is the key factor after a productive campaign when available last season.
Middle- and late-round targets include Jaguars running back Bhayshul Tuten and Patriots veteran Rhamondre Stevenson. Schefter also points to Kenny Gainwell, Blake Corum, Jordan Mason, Chris Rodriguez Jr., Jonah Coleman and MarShawn Lloyd as potential fliers. Corum could benefit even while sharing work with Kyren Williams, while Mason is expected to help a Vikings team determined to improve its running game.
Breakout Wide Receivers and Deep Sleepers
With NFL passing volume remaining high, Schefter sees fantasy value throughout the wide receiver tiers. Ja’Marr Chase, Puka Nacua, Justin Jefferson and Chris Olave headline the early group, with each offering either elite production or bounce-back potential.
The middle rounds feature several appealing names. DeVonta Smith could see more targets for Philadelphia following the departure of A.J. Brown. Ladd McConkey is expected to become a larger part of the Chargers’ passing attack, while Bears rookie Luther Burden III has drawn comparisons to Amon-Ra St. Brown from coach Ben Johnson. Jaguars receiver Parker Washington also impressed late last season and during training camp.
Late-round wide receiver sleepers include Wan’Dale Robinson, Jordan Addison, Josh Downs and Browns rookie KC Concepcion. Ja’Kobi Lane, Caleb Douglas, Cyrus Allen, Kayshon Boutte, Pat Bryant, Ryan Flournoy, Tre’ Harris and Devaughn Vele are even deeper options. Several have stood out during training camp, while others could benefit from expanded roles or promising quarterback connections.
Critical Tight End Values for 2026 Drafts
Schefter describes tight end as one of the deepest and most talented position groups in years. Brock Bowers remains the premier early-round option after quickly becoming the focal point of new Raiders coach Klint Kubiak’s offense.
Colston Loveland is a strong middle-round target after recording 10, 13, 10 and 15 targets during the Bears’ final four games last season. Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr. could benefit from David Njoku’s departure, while Tucker Kraft offers upside for the Packers even if he does not become a full-time player until midseason.
Later-round choices include Isaiah Likely, who followed his coach to the Giants and is expected to serve as the team’s top tight end. Terrance Ferguson, AJ Barner and Gunnar Helm are additional fliers who could emerge as useful fantasy starters.
How to Use Schefter’s Cheat Sheet
The central lesson from Schefter’s list is to balance star power with value. Managers should not force a late-round sleeper onto a roster, but they should track ADP and remain flexible when comparable players are available. Monitoring injuries, depth charts and preseason roles will be essential before draft day.
FAQs
What is the main focus of Adam Schefter’s 2026 cheat sheet?
The cheat sheet focuses on players who could outperform their current ADP, with recommendations for early, middle and late rounds.
Which quarterbacks are highlighted as middle-round values?
Bo Nix, Caleb Williams and Justin Herbert are Schefter’s featured middle-round quarterback targets.
Who are the top running backs on the list?
Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson lead the running back recommendations, followed by players such as Chase Brown, Kenneth Walker III and Omarion Hampton.
Which tight ends offer late-round upside?
Isaiah Likely, Terrance Ferguson, AJ Barner and Gunnar Helm are among the late-round tight ends identified as potential values.
