As NFL training camps officially commence, excitement builds among fantasy managers, signaling the onset of draft season. This period serves as a crucial opportunity to gather insights about teams' strategies for the upcoming season. However, it also carries the risk of overreactions, as fantasy managers are often prone to impulsive assessments of player performances during camp. A remarkable catch by a third-string wide receiver might lead to premature hype, while a starting quarterback's struggles could result in drastic undervaluation. Despite the psychological tendencies of fantasy managers, significant information can be derived from the training camp proceedings, particularly concerning position battles, player health, and potential breakout stars.

For instance, quarterback Sam Darnold's current average draft position (ADP) is QB28 at 178th overall, following a standout season with the Minnesota Vikings, where he led the team to a 14-3 record, amassing 4,319 passing yards and 35 touchdowns. Nonetheless, his situation took an unexpected turn when the Vikings decided to transition to J.J. McCarthy as their future starter, leading Darnold to the Seattle Seahawks on a substantial three-year contract. Critics of Darnold suggest that his 2024 success may be a fluke or doubt his capacity to replicate it on a new team. However, analysts like Andrew Cooper from Moneyline emphasize that Darnold finds himself in a favorable environment in Seattle, touting the Seahawks' offensive systems and the potential of new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's playstyle. While the offensive line remains a point of concern, the prospect of acquiring a former top-10 quarterback at such a low cost is an opportunity not to be overlooked.

Another notable figure is Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, who currently has an ADP of QB32 at 238th overall. Jones has struggled to assert himself as the starter, partly due to a lackluster previous season in which he managed only 2,000 passing yards and eight touchdown passes. However, reports indicate that he has gained a significant lead in the competition against rookie Anthony Richardson. While Richardson's athleticism shines, his accuracy has been questionable, completing merely 47 percent of his passes in the last season. In contrast, Jones demonstrated the ability to be fantasy-relevant in 2022, where his dual-threat capabilities placed him as a top-12 fantasy quarterback, making him a candidate worth considering if he secures the starting role with improved playmakers around him.

Javonte Williams, drafting at RB38 and ranked 112th overall, is another player whose potential intrigue fantasy managers. Once seen as a promising talent during his rookie season with the Denver Broncos, where he accumulated over 1,200 total yards, Williams has faced hurdles since suffering a significant knee injury. In 2024, he struggled to find his footing, recording just 513 rushing yards. However, Williams has reportedly regained his health and is now competing for a spot in the Dallas Cowboys' backfield. Although he faces competition from veteran Miles Sanders and rookie Jaydon Blue, if he can recapture his former prowess, Williams undoubtedly possesses the skill set to emerge as a valuable fantasy asset in the Dallas offense.

Another noteworthy running back is J.K. Dobbins, who maintains an ADP of RB40 at 119th overall. Dobbins has demonstrated his capabilities on the field, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and recording over 1,000 total yards last year. Nonetheless, injuries have stalled his career progression, leading to his recent acquisition by the Denver Broncos after a stint in free agency. Head coach Sean Payton has a track record of successfully utilizing a two-headed running back system, suggesting that Dobbins could find himself in a significant role if he can stay healthy. Given his history and past productivity, Dobbins could be a surprise contributor to fantasy rosters this season.

On the receiving front, Tre Harris, selected in the second round by the Los Angeles Chargers, stands out with an ADP of WR54 at 135th overall. With impressive receiving stats from his time at Ole Miss, including an average of over 17 yards per catch, there is considerable buzz surrounding Harris potentially stepping into a significant role following Mike Williams' sudden retirement. Industry experts like Derek Brown from Moneyline are already noting Harris as a candidate likely to ascend the depth chart, particularly if the Chargers maintain their pass-heavy offensive approach. With a clear opportunity ahead, Harris could offer excellent value in fantasy drafts this year.

Conversely, the Cleveland Browns have not sparked much enthusiasm regarding their player's fantasy potential, largely attributed to their quarterback uncertainty. However, Cedric Tillman presents an opportunity for fantasy managers. Despite modest career stats comprising 50 receptions for 563 yards and three touchdowns, Tillman's previous full-time performances indicate he holds potential for greater contributions in the upcoming season. Analysts like Jared Smola suggest that Tillman has a pathway to a starting role, which could lead to favorable matchups against opposing defenses, as he may benefit from focus diverted to other key contributors like Jerry Jeudy.

Lastly, Isaiah Likely, with an ADP of TE17 at 145th overall, is an intriguing tight end prospect for the Baltimore Ravens. After a promising start last season, he again found himself in Mark Andrews' shadow. However, with Andrews seemingly entering a stage in his career where the Ravens may look to transition, analysts suggest that Likely's opportunities could increase if Andrews faces time away. With only modest competition in the depth chart, Likely has the potential to develop into a prominent part of the Ravens' offense, particularly in the red zone, making him a name to watch as training camps progress.