Introduction to Fantasy Draft Season

As we celebrate the 4th of July weekend, barbecues and pool parties are booming, but sports fans know there's a significant season on the horizon—fantasy football draft season. While the sun beats down, and outdoor activities sound less than appealing, it’s the ideal time to hunker down in air-conditioning and prepare for the upcoming fantasy football season. In this article, we'll explore some undervalued players to keep an eye on as fantasy draft day rapidly approaches. Each player covered represents a potential bargain worth targeting from each of the NFL’s eight divisions.

Buffalo Bills: D.J. Moore

As the Buffalo Bills make strides to equip quarterback Josh Allen with reliable weapons, they have struck a deal bringing D.J. Moore on board from Chicago. With an average draft position (ADP) of WR26 and a 55th overall pick, Moore is viewed as an excellent draft value. Allen has noted Moore's impressive veteran leadership, stating that their camaraderie is developing seamlessly. Despite a drop in numbers during the 2025 season with career-lows in receptions (50) and yards (682), Moore has consistently found the end zone, catching six touchdowns for four consecutive seasons. With a history of hitting the 1,000-yard mark, his new position as the Bills' number one receiver should invigorate his production, making him a compelling draft choice.

New York Giants: Cam Skattebo

Emerging as a fantasy sensation last year, Giants rookie Cam Skattebo, with an ADP of RB19 and 43rd overall, burst onto the scene before an ankle injury cut his season short. During a month of being the lead back, he secured an impressive ranking of eighth among running backs in PPR points. Experts like Michael Fabiano predict that if healthy, Skattebo could replicate or even exceed last year's success as he heads into the season opener against the Cowboys. With the Giants building a strong offensive line, Skattebo's potential workload appears favorable to make him a must-start player as long as his health remains intact.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Rico Dowdle

Rico Dowdle remains one of the most underrated running backs as he heads into the 2026 season with an ADP of RB32 and 85th overall. Despite two solid seasons where he exceeded 1,000 rushing yards, Dowdle often flies under the radar in discussions about running backs. Recently earning a two-year contract worth $12.25 million from the Steelers shows faith in his talents. Dowdle is focused on maintaining his performance, aiming for a third consecutive 1,000-yard season. With a new coaching staff under Mike McCarthy and a solid running game ahead of him, expect Dowdle to reclaim his spot in the Steelers’ backfield, offering good value for fantasy managers.

Detroit Lions: Jared Goff

Jared Goff, with an ADP of QB16 and 110th overall, may well be one of this year’s most overlooked quarterbacks. After throwing for 4,564 yards and 34 touchdowns last season, Goff's performance has him ranked high in fantasy points, yet he remains outside the top-15 QB draft picks. He may not contribute much on the ground, but Goff has proven to be a prolific scorer in the passing game, boasting eight top-five finishes over the past two seasons. The Lions' offensive pieces like Jahmyr Gibbs and Amon-Ra St. Brown provide a solid support system, ensuring Goff can keep delivering high scores. Therefore, he’s a fantastic late-round option that fantasy managers should target.

Houston Texans: David Montgomery

After a trade to Houston, David Montgomery finds himself in a position to reclaim the top back status he desires, boasting an ADP of RB23 and 52nd overall. With Texans’ offensive coordinator expressing confidence in Montgomery’s physicality and skills, there’s solid potential for him heading into the upcoming season. Two years ago, Joe Mixon had a stellar performance in Houston, and if Montgomery can replicate that, he could become an effective RB1, thus presenting outstanding draft value for fantasy teams focusing on wide receivers early on.

Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Pitts

After a rocky start to his career, Kyle Pitts is looking to build on his recent success with an ADP of TE7, 86th overall. Having posted an impressive line of 88 receptions and 928 yards last season, Pitts was second among tight ends in PPR points. With a new contract extension reinforcing his role in the offense, analysts believe he can return immense value if his performance continues on an upward trajectory. Although quarterback situations are less certain, Pitts possesses the talent and ability to outperform expectations, especially in a market filled with shallow tight end options.

Las Vegas Raiders: Jalen Nailor

One of this summer's biggest sleeper picks may just be Jalen Nailor of the Raiders, currently sitting at an ADP of WR63 and 170th overall. Although Nailor's stats may not dazzle at first glance, a significant contract and a favorable opportunity position him as a wildcard in fantasy drafts. With positivity surrounding his new route run metrics and separation abilities, Nailor could provide value as a budget-friendly WR3 or flex. Fantasy managers could be missing out on a hidden gem.

Arizona Cardinals: Michael Wilson

Finally, Michael Wilson, whose impressive season last year garnered him a top-10 finish among wide receivers with 1,000 yards, must navigate wavering expectations for 2026. Currently projected with an ADP of WR39 and 89th overall, analysts remain skeptical of what the arrival of Marvin Harrison Jr. and a new head coach will mean for his role. Wilson, however, is optimistic about the offense and has demonstrated the ability to earn targets in the past, which places him as a potential target for managers looking to fill their rosters strategically.

Final Thoughts and Strategies for Fantasy Drafting

As you prepare for your upcoming fantasy football draft, being aware of undervalued players across divisions can enhance your prospects of building a successful team. Focusing on players like D.J. Moore, Cam Skattebo, and the others outlined here provides a solid foundation, allowing you to invest strategically in core positions. With thorough preparation, expect to navigate your draft confidently while securing potential league-winning assets. Aim high and stay informed; victory in fantasy football relies just as much on player knowledge as it does on luck.