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Yahoo fantasy football managers preparing for draft weekend have a fresh set of names, numbers and warning signs to consider. ESPN published a collection of quick-hit fantasy football notes on Sept. 3, offering draft advice across quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end positions.
The guidance arrives during one of the busiest periods on the fantasy calendar. With draft boards changing quickly because of injuries, roster decisions and preseason developments, even experienced managers can benefit from a final review before making their selections.
Powerful Yahoo Fantasy Football Quarterback Values
Patrick Mahomes may be one of the most surprising value opportunities. Mahomes tore his left ACL and LCL in Week 15, but he is expected to start Week 1 against the Denver Broncos. His current draft position reportedly places him around the QB2 range, creating unusual value for a player who has consistently ranked among fantasy football’s elite quarterbacks.
Dak Prescott is another quarterback drawing attention. Despite having CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens as prominent offensive weapons, Prescott is not receiving the same draft enthusiasm as some of his peers. He finished with 30 passing touchdowns last season, while ESPN contributor Adam Rank projects him closer to 40 this year. That upside could make Prescott one of the strongest late quarterback values.
Managers should be more cautious with Drake Maye and Aaron Rodgers. Maye was sacked 68 times during the 2025 season and playoffs, although additions to the New England Patriots’ offensive line and receiving corps could help. Rodgers, meanwhile, ranked last in air yards per attempt in 2025 at 6.0, raising concerns about his fantasy ceiling with Michael Pittman Jr. as a key target.
Critical Running Back Decisions Before Draft Day
Running back scarcity remains one of the biggest themes in 2026 fantasy football. The advice is straightforward: managers should strongly consider securing an RB2 before leaving the fourth round. Waiting too long could create a difficult weekly lineup problem, especially in leagues with multiple flex positions.
Christian McCaffrey remains a complicated first-round decision. He has declined after previous seasons with more than 400 touches, and he exceeded that workload again last year. Still, his receiving role could remain enormous, particularly if George Kittle is limited. McCaffrey is risky, but his potential workload keeps him firmly in the conversation.
Several running backs offer intriguing value. Derrick Henry continues to defy age-based expectations after becoming the only player in NFL history to record at least 1,500 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns at age 30 or older. Chase Brown also deserves attention after joining Jahmyr Gibbs, Bijan Robinson and De’Von Achane as players with at least 2,000 rushing yards and 750 receiving yards since 2024.
Jadarian Price has gained momentum while Zach Charbonnet is expected to miss at least four games on the PUP list. RJ Harvey’s receiving production is another reason to watch him closely, while Cam Skattebo’s 24 receptions during the Giants’ first eight games last season highlight his versatility.
Explosive Wide Receiver and Tight End Sleepers
Jaylen Waddle could benefit significantly from Denver’s new offensive structure and Davis Webb taking over playcalling. Webb has indicated that Waddle will line up across the formation, potentially giving the former Miami Dolphins star a larger and more creative role.
Tetairoa McMillan also stands out after accounting for 30.7% of his team’s receiving yards last season. That usage places him in impressive company and suggests a strong target floor for fantasy managers seeking a high-volume receiver.
At tight end, Colston Loveland is one of the most appealing breakout candidates. He received 48 targets across his final four games, including the playoffs. Caleb Williams also completed 74.3% of his passes when targeting Loveland and Luther Burden III, compared with 52.8% for other targets.
Trey McBride offers an especially valuable positional advantage. He recorded 63 receptions, 644 yards and six touchdowns from the slot last season, leading all NFL tight ends in those categories. Terrance Ferguson is a deeper-league flier who could function like a third wide receiver while retaining tight end eligibility.
How These Fantasy Football Notes Affect Your Draft
The biggest takeaway is that draft value depends on more than name recognition. League scoring, roster requirements and positional scarcity can dramatically change player rankings. Quarterbacks such as Jared Goff become more attractive in formats awarding six points for passing touchdowns, while versatile backs and heavily targeted tight ends can provide a weekly advantage.
Before joining a Yahoo fantasy football draft, check the latest injury news, confirm starting lineups and compare average draft position with your own projections. A final adjustment or two could be the difference between a competitive roster and a team chasing the waiver wire all season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is a surprising quarterback value?
Dak Prescott stands out because his projected touchdown total is higher than his current draft position suggests. Patrick Mahomes is also appealing if managers are comfortable with his recovery situation.
Should fantasy managers draft Christian McCaffrey?
McCaffrey carries workload and durability concerns, but his receiving upside remains exceptional. His selection depends on how much risk a manager is willing to accept in the first round.
Which running backs are rising in value?
Chase Brown, Jadarian Price, RJ Harvey and Cam Skattebo are among the backs drawing attention because of their workload, receiving ability or temporary opportunities.
What makes Colston Loveland a fantasy sleeper?
Loveland finished strongly with 48 targets over four games and showed excellent connection with Caleb Williams. His role could expand quickly in Chicago’s crowded offense.
