Training camps are officially underway across the NFL, marking an exciting period for fantasy managers as draft season approaches. This time offers insights into teams' strategies for the upcoming season, though it also presents dangers of overreaction. Fantasy managers often find themselves swayed by camp performance—an impressive catch by a third-string wideout could elevate their status to that of a future star, while a starting quarterback's struggles might lead to rapid dismissal from consideration. Despite such tendencies, training camp yields valuable information, particularly regarding unresolved position battles such as the quarterback position in Indianapolis and the running back situation in Dallas. As players compete for larger roles, return from injuries, or seek to make their mark in their first season, the opportunity for identifying potential fantasy sleepers emerges.

The term 'sleeper' may be frequently used in fantasy discussions, but it essentially refers to those players available in the later rounds of the draft who possess the capability to outperform expectations. Each athlete highlighted in this analysis has an Average Draft Position (ADP) suggesting they are typically available in double-digit rounds, yet they all carry the potential to become valuable late-round picks for fantasy championship teams.

Sam Darnold (ADP: QB28, 178th Overall) has experienced a whirlwind year, from leading the Minnesota Vikings to a 14-3 record and enjoying a spectacular fantasy season to subsequently being ousted for new quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Despite these significant changes, analysts like Andrew Cooper from Fantasy Alarm suggest the Seattle Seahawks could provide Darnold an advantageous environment akin to the one he thrived in last year. Darnold now confronts a challenge with Seattle's offensive line ranked poorly, but his previous performance lends hope that he will be a valuable late-round quarterback selection.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (ADP: QB32, 238th Overall) finds himself on the verge of a critical season despite lacking significant draft interest. Jones has not yet secured the starting position and has not excelled during his last tenure with the New York Giants, leading to his stalling stock. However, reports indicate that Jones has established a significant lead in the competition for the Colts' starting role. If he wins the job, Jones's past capability to generate meaningful fantasy points, especially given the improved passing attack in Indianapolis, positions him as a candidate worth drafting late in fantasy leagues.

Javonte Williams (ADP: RB38, 112th Overall) enjoyed a promising rookie season with the Denver Broncos, but a knee injury has since limited his production. Now with the Dallas Cowboys, he claims to have regained his health and confidence, which brings hope for his return to form. Although Williams will compete with veterans Miles Sanders and rookie Jaydon Blue for the starting role, his talent and potential recovery lend credence to the idea that he could reclaim a substantial position within Dallas's backfield if he proves his fitness during training camp.

J.K. Dobbins (ADP: RB40, 119th Overall) displayed solid performance over five seasons, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and achieving over 1,000 total yards with the Los Angeles Chargers last year. However, his inability to remain healthy raises questions about his availability. After signing with the Denver Broncos, Dobbins finds himself in a potentially fruitful split backfield. Historically, head coach Sean Payton has successfully utilized a two-headed approach, and with an uptick in opportunities, Dobbins could offer late-round value that fantasy managers need to monitor closely.

Tre Harris was selected in the second round by the Los Angeles Chargers after showcasing exceptional skills at Ole Miss. With Mike Williams's unexpected retirement creating additional target opportunities, Harris's ascent to the role of No. 2 receiver becomes plausible. Analysts like Derek Brown from Fantasy Pros suggest that if Harris develops chemistry with Justin Herbert, his impact could be significant, especially within a Chargers offense that ranked highly in passing rates last season. Harris is a name to watch as training camp unfolds, potentially evolving into a prime value for fantasy drafters.

Fantasy managers may not be optimistic about Cleveland Browns players this season, given recent team struggles. Receiver Cedric Tillman has not set fantasy circles ablaze but has shown potential that merits deeper consideration. Insights from Jared Smola of Draft Sharks illustrate that Tillman briefly shone as Cleveland's top receiver during a four-game stretch last season. If Tillman assumes a more prominent role this year, particularly with the possibility of facing undivided coverage, he could become a notable contributor—especially if the team manages to improve its quarterback play.

Isaiah Likely (ADP: TE17, 145th Overall) initially raised expectations as a tight end for the Baltimore Ravens but found himself under Mark Andrews's shadow. Future speculations about Likely's potential align with Andrews entering a contract year. While Likely remains outside the top-15 tight ends, analysts believe he possesses enough upside to rise significantly if the conditions allow. As training camps commence, his role could evolve into a more prominent position, marking him as an intriguing candidate to watch among fantasy tight ends.

Brenton Strange, a tight end for the Jacksonville Jaguars, also holds future breakout potential following a few flashes of capability last season. Being critiqued positively as a up-and-coming player, Strange possesses impressive physical attributes that could help him capitalize on opportunities created by a young, offensive-minded coach. As the Jaguars continue to develop their offensive strategies, Strange’s ability to contribute could place him in a favorable position to emerge as a reliable fantasy option in the next season.