The 2026 NFL season kicks off in just one week, and Fantasy football average draft position (ADP) data continues to solidify now that the preseason has concluded and roster cuts are finalized, according to CBS Sports. Managers drafting at the top of the board are frequently selecting Jahmyr Gibbs, Bijan Robinson, Ja’Marr Chase, Puka Nacua, Jonathan Taylor, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Meanwhile, Omarion Hampton, Colston Loveland, and Sam LaPorta have emerged as some of the biggest ADP risers over the past few days.
Evaluating Top Sleepers: Alec Pierce’s Expanded Role
Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce stands out as a primary sleeper target according to projections from the computer model at SportsLine. Pierce finished second in the league last season with an average of 21.3 yards per reception, securing a top-25 fantasy finish among wide receivers with a 47-1003-6 receiving line that preceded a four-year, $114 million contract extension.
Pierce slipped to an ADP around No. 87 overall—down from near No. 70—while rehabbing an ankle injury and adjusting to teammate Keenan Allen. With Michael Pittman gone, the SportsLine model ranks Pierce above early-going receivers like Maik Nabers and Justin Jefferson.
Quarterback Breakouts: Jaxson Dart’s Sophomore Outlook
At quarterback, Giants signal-caller Jaxson Dart offers substantial upside at his current No. 110 ADP, as reported by CBS Sports. The second-year pro out of Ole Miss threw for 2,272 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions during his rookie campaign, adding 487 yards and nine rushing scores. Although he experienced a brief injury scare in Week 1 of the preseason, he was quickly cleared to return.
With an upgraded supporting cast and the return of Malk Nabers (ACL), the SportsLine model ranks Dart ahead of established quarterbacks being drafted earlier, including Patrick Mahomes, Matthew Stafford, and Justin Herbert.
Fading High-Profile Busts: Kenneth Walker III in Kansas City
Conversely, the computer model flags Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III as a high-risk selection to avoid in upcoming drafts. Walker enters the season with an elevated ADP of No. 17 overall—climbing three slots recently—following a dominant postseason run as a key piece of Seattle’s Super Bowl run.
Despite joining a Kansas City backfield without a lot of competition, head coach Andy Reid’s pass-first offense hasn’t been friendly to running backs from a Fantasy standpoint as no Kansas City back has cleared 1,000 yards on the ground since 2017. Furthermore, Walker brings some injury risk after missing at least one game in 2022, 2023 and 2024. SportsLine ranks backs such as Jeremiyah Love, D’Andre Swift, and Bucky Irving higher than Walker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the consensus top players going off the board first in 2026?
According to CBS Sports ADP data, Jahmyr Gibbs, Bijan Robinson, Ja’Marr Chase, Puka Nacua, Jonathan Taylor, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba lead off drafts.
What makes Alec Pierce a strong fantasy sleeper?
As reported by SportsLine, Pierce ranked second in the league with an average of 21.3 yards per reception last year and steps into an expanded target share with Michael Pittman gone.
Why is Kenneth Walker III labeled a potential bust?
While his ADP sits at No. 17 overall following a strong playoff run, the SportsLine model notes that Andy Reid’s offense hasn’t been friendly to running backs, and Walker has a history of missing games due to injuries.
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