Summer Heat Means OTAs and Fantasy Football Insights

As the summer weather heats up, so does the excitement for fantasy football enthusiasts. With pools filled and amusement parks buzzing, NFL players are swapping their vacation plans for voluntary organized team activities (OTAs) and mandatory minicamps. For fantasy managers, this is a critical period for evaluating player performance and preparing for the upcoming draft season. Each day brings new insights that could shape roster decisions come September.

Quarterback Showdown in Minnesota

This summer, the Minnesota Vikings find themselves in a high-stakes quarterback competition between incumbent J.J. McCarthy and newly acquired Kyler Murray. Coach Kevin O'Connell addressed the media, stating that both quarterbacks have demonstrated their strengths during OTAs. However, he emphasized there’s no rush to name a starter, underlining the importance of choosing the player who will best fit the team's needs. Murray, known for his superior arm talent, showed some inconsistency due to his unfamiliarity with the offense during seven-on-seven drills. Conversely, McCarthy’s skillset presents a blend of experience, yet he lacks the dynamic playmaking ability that Murray brings. As training camp approaches, expect Murray’s comfort within O'Connell's system to become a determining factor for the job. ”

Trevor Lawrence’s Continued Growth

Over in Jacksonville, Trevor Lawrence is looking to build on a stellar 2025 season where he led the Jaguars to an AFC South title. This summer, he’s working closely under offensive coordinator Liam Coen, who praised Lawrence’s accuracy and ability to push the ball downfield during OTAs. With Lawrence throwing under five interceptions during these workouts, his ability to balance risk and rewards has shown remarkable progress. The presence of talented wideouts like Brian Thomas Jr., Jakobi Meyers, and Parker Washington gives him ample opportunities to thrive as he prepares to elevate his fantasy value further in the coming season. Drafted outside the top-12 of his position, Lawrence seems poised for a breakout.

Can Cam Skattebo Make a Comeback?

New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo quickly earned fan admiration last season for his tough, downhill running style. However, his promising rookie campaign was cut short by a serious ankle injury in Week 8. As OTAs have commenced, head coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism regarding Skattebo’s recovery and readiness for the upcoming season. Skattebo is reportedly keen on returning to full-contact practice, demonstrating the hard work he’s put into his rehabilitation. His potential return to form could reestablish him as a top-tier fantasy back, especially considering his previous PPR point standings from Week 4 to Week 7 last year, where he ranked closely among league leaders.

The Bumpy Journey of Jonathon Brooks

Once a promising second-round pick for the Carolina Panthers, Jonathon Brooks has faced significant challenges, having seen limited action due to injuries. After missing a season due to a torn ACL, Brooks is finally participating in his first OTAs and has shown positive signs in both the run and pass game, catching the attention of new head coach Dave Canales. Despite the competitive running back landscape, with Chuba Hubbard leading the charge after the departure of Rico Dowdle, Brooks is looking to revive his career and might just be worth a late-round gamble for fantasy managers if he continues to shine in training camp.

Brian Thomas Jr.’s Bid for Redemption

While Trevor Lawrence flourished last season, second-year wideout Brian Thomas Jr. faced a challenging campaign that was a far cry from his rookie performance. With motivation brimming, Thomas has reportedly arrived at OTAs with a renewed focus and determination, impressing coaches and teammates alike. Coach Coen has noted the chemistry developing between Thomas and Lawrence as crucial for the team's success, especially as they revitalize their air attack. Given that Thomas still holds significant air yards from last year, optimism exists for his potential resurgence in 2026.

Carnell Tate Excels in Early Practices

Tennessee Titans rookie wide receiver Carnell Tate seems undeterred by the pressure of being the top selection among his peers at his position. His early performance has been marked by highlight-worthy plays, impressing coaches and analysts alike. Despite a minor injury halting him late in OTAs, expectations are high for Tate to return strong during minicamps. The chemistry developing between him and quarterback Cam Ward could yield low-risk, high-reward opportunities for fantasy players considering drafting Tate.

Injuries and Optimism Surround Tucker Kraft

Meanwhile, Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft is trending upward as he rehabs from an ACL injury. Expected to be ready for the season opener, Kraft had a promising season in terms of productivity before his injury. If he can maintain his pre-injury performance level, he could elevate himself into the mix as one of the top tight ends across fantasy leagues. His connection with quarterback Jordan Love will be crucial in determining his potential to be a valuable asset.

Isaiah Likely's Emerging Role with the Giants

With uncertainty surrounding the health of wide receiver Malik Nabers, New York Giants tight end Isaiah Likely is benefiting from additional reps at OTAs. His rapport with quarterback Jaxson Dart is developing rapidly, suggesting that Likely might emerge as a key target in the passing game this coming season. Given the contract he signed, the Giants clearly expect him to contribute significantly, making him an intriguing option for fantasy managers as the season approaches.

As OTAs continue, the focal point for fantasy managers will be to monitor these players' performances and take advantage of the developing narratives, as summer workouts gradually pave the way for their fall campaigns.