The anticipation for the 2026 NFL season continues to build as veterans from all 32 teams gear up for training camps by the end of the month. With the preseason just around the corner, starting with the Arizona Cardinals facing off against the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame Game on August 6, fantasy football enthusiasts are getting excited for their drafts. This article dives into an early point-per-reception (PPR) mock draft, provides positional rankings, and highlights some exciting sleeper candidates to consider for your fantasy teams.
Round 1: Setting the Stage
The early rounds of any fantasy draft are crucial for building a competitive roster, especially in leagues that score points per reception. Star running backs and wide receivers often dominate the top of most draft boards. The key is identifying players who not only have high ceilings but also possess the potential for sustained production throughout the season. As training camps begin, keeping an eye on player performances and injury updates will be essential for drafting wisely.
Top Sleepers to Watch
As we move into the mid-to-late rounds of your fantasy draft, including potential sleeper picks can make or break your team. Here are four players to keep on your radar:
Bo Nix - Quarterback, Denver Broncos
Currently sporting an average draft position (ADP) of around 135, Bo Nix is a quarterback that many fantasy managers might overlook. The Denver Broncos quarterback faced injuries last season, recovering from a fractured ankle. However, his impressive finish as QB7 in the previous season showcases his potential. With a boosted supporting cast bolstered by the addition of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, Nix's rushing abilities (356 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2025) further elevate his value in fantasy drafts. For those who prefer to wait on quarterback selections, Nix is a solid candidate to target in the middle rounds of your draft.
Jonathon Brooks - Running Back, Carolina Panthers
Selected in the second round of the 2024 draft, Jonathon Brooks had a rough start to his NFL career due to injuries, including a torn ACL that sidelined him for most of his rookie season and another re-injury that kept him out all of 2025. Despite his tumultuous past, Brooks is finally healthy and ready to team up with veteran Chuba Hubbard in Carolina's backfield. With an ADP of 161, Brooks presents a boom-or-bust opportunity for fantasy managers willing to take a risk on his potential. As Hubbard noted, Brooks is a talented player, and with ample opportunity to split carries in a revamped offense, he could surprise many this season.
Dontayvion Wicks - Wide Receiver, Philadelphia Eagles
Following the trade of A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots, the Philadelphia Eagles find themselves in need of a reliable perimeter receiver. Enter Dontayvion Wicks, who may emerge as a significant contributor opposite DeVonta Smith. After a promising rookie season with the Green Bay Packers, where he accumulated 581 yards and four touchdowns, Wicks could eclipse those numbers if he secures a full-time starting role. Given the Eagles' investment in him, Wicks’ ADP presents an enticing opportunity for deeper league drafts, making him a sleeper to consider for fantasy teams.
Chigoziem Okonkwo - Tight End, Washington Commanders
In a challenging season for the Tennessee Titans, Chigoziem Okonkwo was still able to lead the team with 56 receptions and 560 receiving yards, finishing as TE21 in fantasy. Moving to the Washington Commanders, Okonkwo has the chance to step into a more prominent role, particularly as the starting tight end. For his fantasy value, much hinges on the performance of quarterback Jayden Daniels. If Daniels can stay healthy, Okonkwo could become an integral part of the passing game, potentially replicating previous success experienced by tight ends under similar circumstances. With an ADP of 152, he’s a low-risk, high-reward option worth considering in the later rounds.
The Importance of Preparation
As we gear up for the fantasy football season, the importance of thorough preparation cannot be overstated. Training camps provide vital insights into player performances, potential injuries, and the dynamics of team offenses. By analyzing player stats, updates, and trends, fantasy managers can strategically build competitive rosters capable of contending for championships.
Ultimately, while the top players may steal the spotlight in drafts, it is often the underrated sleepers that make the biggest impact. Monitoring players like Bo Nix, Jonathon Brooks, Dontayvion Wicks, and Chigoziem Okonkwo may just provide the edge needed for fantasy success in the upcoming season. As the Hall of Fame Game approaches and training camps get underway, be prepared to adapt and evolve your strategies to take full advantage of the fantasy landscape.
