2026 NFL Draft: Day 3 Fantasy Football Recap

The 2025 NFL Draft came to a close on Saturday with the final four rounds.

Fantasy draft season may not be close to hitting its crescendo, but hardcore gamers have been selecting players prior to the conclusion of the collegiate bowl season. It's time to let the real fun begin!

(This article will focus primarily on rookies from a redraft perspective. We will have rookie and dynasty rankings on the site early next week. Our initial redraft rankings will hit the site later in the week. My signature Big Board - a draft day tool that is one of the principal reasons why I have yet to suffer a losing money season in 25 years of high-stakes fantasy football - will likely be finished sometime in June and updated daily after that.)

Also see: Day 1 | Day 2

The 2026 NFL Draft was widely expected to be a down year for fantasy purposes, and the landing spots disappointed in a number of cases. Therefore, while every quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end that was drafted will be mentioned, only the notable ones who appear to have even a small chance at fantasy success in 2026 will receive analysis.

Round 4

Sep 6, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies running back Jonah Coleman (1) rushes against the UC Davis Aggies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images

115) WR Elijah Sarratt, Baltimore Ravens(Film Profile | Analytical Profile)

Team Fit: The new regime obviously identified improving the passing game in the red zone as something it wanted to improve, first with Ja'Kobi Lane and now with Sarratt. Considering the team doubled up at receiver, it could be an indication that the new regime isn't all that high on Rashod Bateman. More than likely, however, Sarratt's selection is more about adding quality depth and size to a receiving room. It's the last bit that needs more explanation. He is comfortable with a defender in his hip pocket; 22.5% of his 240 career catches and 28.1% of his 334 career targets were contested. Sarratt is coming off a season in which he led FBS in receiving touchdowns in 2025 with 15. It is possible that new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle simply wants Lamar Jackson to have options in contested-catch situations as opposed to having him rely on his legs every time his protection breaks down.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Much like Lane, it will be hard for Sarratt to come into fantasy value unless Bateman goes down.

122) RB Mike Washington Jr., Las Vegas Raiders (Film Profile | Analytical Profile)

Team Fit: This seems fairly cut-and-dried. The Raiders did not bring back Raheem Mostert and only have Dylan Laube and Chris Collier behind Ashton Jeanty, so the team had little choice but to add a running back capable of handling a decent workload should Jeanty miss time. Washington is not going to handle much work behind Jeanty, but he offers significant upside. He was only running back in college football last year with 30 or more runs of at least 10 yards and 17 or more runs of at least 15 yards on fewer than 170 carries. He did that in the SEC on a two-win team. The most likely reason was still available early in the fourth round was likely due to issues with ball security (three fumbles on 195 offensive touches in 2025, six fumbles on 166 touches in 2024). Nevertheless, his big-play potential is just what the team can use as a change-up to Jeanty.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? It's hard to call a backup job behind Jeanty a good landing spot for fantasy, but Las Vegas has nothing of note behind last year's first-round pick. While Washington is obviously no threat to Jeanty, a handcuff running back in a Klint Kubiak offense makes him a player worth selecting near the end of fantasy drafts.

Nov 8, 2025; East Hartford, Connecticut, USA; UConn Huskies wide receiver Skyler Bell (1) makes the touchdown against Duke Blue Devils cornerback Landan Callahan (21) in the second half at Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

125) WR Skyler Bell, Buffalo Bills (Film Profile | Analytical Profile)

**Team Fit:**The Bills did what they needed in the offseason when they acquired DJ Moore via trade, and they may have found his eventual successor in Bell. While his 2025 catch rate (72.3%) and yards after contact per reception (8.2) in 2025 were heavily influenced by how many times UConn called a screen for him, it only accounts for a small part of how much damage he does after the catch (835 yards ranked second in FBS). Several parts of Bell's profile are worrisome, such as the drops (24 for his career, equaling how many touchdowns he scored, his age (he will turn 24 in July) and his below-average size (6-foot-0, 187). With that said, Joshua Palmer and Keon Coleman have done little to prove - at least consistently - that they deserve to be in the mix for regular targets. Bell absolutely has a chance to win a starting job as the primary Z this summer - even if he is a better fit as a slot receiver.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Finally, a Day 3 pick with a realistic path to some immediate fantasy value. Bell isn't going to overtake Moore or Shakir on the depth chart anytime soon, but Josh Allen can easily support a third receiver. Consider him a WR5 with WR4 upside in early drafts.

136) WR Bryce Lance, New Orleans Saints

Team Fit: It is almost impossible to begin a conversation about Lance without first mentioning that he is one of the best athletes to take the field in NFL Scouting Combine history. Fortunately, Lance possesses a good tool kit that goes beyond being a freak athlete. His career drop rate was 3.8%, which is no small thing when his aDOT is as high as it was (15.5 in 2025, 14.1 for his college career). He should be able to contribute right away as a field-stretcher in New Orleans, both as a contested-catch option and a speed merchant. His biggest impact may come in the red zone, which should not come as a shock for a player with his size (6-foot-3), vertical explosiveness (41.5-inch vertical) and strong hands.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Lance has a realistic chance of overtaking Devaughn Vele in camp and enjoying a bit of fantasy value as a splash player in Year 1. He is someone who belongs on watch lists (Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson will be the unquestioned starters), and he could find himself being somewhat relevant in fantasy if their injury histories end up being an issue again in 2026.

Round 5

152) TE Justin Joly, Denver Broncos

Team Fit: The immediate fit is unclear based on the fact that Evan Engram and Adam Trautman remain on the roster, but it would seem that head coach Sean Payton likes the idea of someone like Engram (even if they didn't show it last year). Joly is not much of an in-line blocker at 6-foot-3 and 241 pounds and projects as something of a poor man's Isaiah Likely, so his future with Denver should not have any effect on Trautman's status.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Very little, barring an injury to Engram.

Nov 8, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers running back Emmett Johnson (21) runs the ball against the UCLA Bruins during the second half at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

161) RB Emmett Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs (Film Profile | Analytical Profile)

Team Fit: Johnson probably couldn't ask for a better landing spot if the league valued him as a fifth-round prospect. The Big Ten rushing champion is not going to take many carries away from Kenneth Walker anytime soon, but his passing-game chops figure to come in handy since the Seahawks never seemed to trust the Super Bowl MVP much in that area. While Johnson may be a bit on the small side at 203 pounds, he is easily the most proven rusher on the depth chart after Walker. He only needs to beat out Brashard Smith and Emari Demercado to move into the backup/change-of-pace role in Kansas City.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Johnson's value in redraft will depend mostly on the health of Walker. If KWIII avoids injury, Johnson will probably be capped at five or so touches per game. His value will come as the (likely) main handcuff to Walker.

165) RB Nicholas Singleton, Tennessee Titans (Film Profile | Analytical Profile)

Team Fit: Tennessee is an interesting destination for Singleton, if only because Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears are set to reach free agency next spring. It is very possible that neither returns. Pollard and Spears should not be overly concerned for their job security to begin the season, as Singleton is likely being viewed as an upgrade to Julius Chestnut and/or Michael Carter who can also return kicks. However, considering Spears' durability issues, it might not take long for Singleton to see the field and serve as Pollard's change-of-pace back.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Much like Jonah Coleman above, there isn't an easy path for Singleton immediately - outside of maybe a specialty role. However, with Pollard pushing 30 and Spears struggling to make it through a season, Singleton will begin the season potentially one injury away from being on the flex radar.

174) RB Adam Randall, Baltimore Ravens

Team Fit: Randall offers an intriguing skill set as a former receiver who transitioned to running back late in the 2024 season. The late conversion obviously means Randall is still in his infancy in terms of being a true running back, but the idea of a 232-pound former receiver serving as a mismatch weapon as a rookie has to be appealing for the team. He's not going to steal too much work from Derrick Henry or Justice Hill, but there are touches to be had in this backfield after Keaton Mitchell left for the Chargers.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Henry has proven to be quite durable throughout his career, so Randall will not have much immediate appeal in redraft. However, his size alone probably makes him the best Henry handcuff for fantasy purposes.

177) Kevin Coleman Jr., Miami Dolphins

Team Fit: There was a big "HELP WANTED" sign planted outside just about every position room in Miami before the draft, especially after the team released Tyreek Hill and traded Jaylen Waddle to Denver. The only somewhat proven wideout remaining from last year's team is Malik Washington. Given how little he did last season, a case can be made that Kevin Coleman overtakes him in the slot in 2026. That will likely be his path to playing time, however, as there are not many 5-foot-10, 179-pound receivers who make their living on the perimeter.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Everything with Miami's passing game comes with the caveat that the Dolphins will likely have a low-volume passing offense led by Malik Willis. There is a small chance for him to produce like Washington did last season if he wins the slot job, but it is not worth drafting him to find out in most leagues with 18-man rosters.

178) QB Cole Payton, Philadelphia Eagles

Team Fit: The team has at least entertained the idea of trading Tanner McKee, although the selection of Payton could be just as much about having Jalen Hurts' backup in place now so the Eagles don't have to find his replacement if McKee becomes a free agent next spring. A fifth-round selection of Payton doesn't guarantee him a roster spot, but the likelihood is that Payton projects to be his long-term backup beginning in 2027. Why? Payton is, in some ways, a southpaw version of Hurts, and it makes sense that the Eagles would want to keep quarterback runs in the game plan even if Hurts has to miss some time.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? While fantasy managers do not need to worry about it during drafts, Payton could have some fantasy value in 2026 (assuming a Hurts injury), due mostly to his mobility. It is not out of the realm of possibility that he impresses enough in camp to pass Dalton (and possibly even McKee) on the depth chart.

Round 6-7 Notables

Oct 25, 2025; Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) passes during the third quarter against the Auburn Tigers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Auburn won 33-24. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-Imagn Images

182) QB Taylen Green, Cleveland Browns

Team Fit: Green has a chance in Cleveland because he is the kind of player teams should want to develop. Why? Doesn't every team want to create explosive plays as much as possible? Doesn't every team want a quarterback that defenses must devote their attention to on every play? Green is easily one of the freakiest athletes ever to enter the draft, especially as a quarterback. Is accuracy a problem and does he turn the ball over too much? Yes and yes. With that said, the Browns have a mishmash of quarterbacks who either haven't proven anything lately (Deshaun Watson) or at all (Sheduer Sanders and Dillon Gabriel). New head coach Todd Monken isn't tied to any of them, while Green likely reminds him of the quarterback he just spent a few years with in Baltimore (Lamar Jackson). Green is a developmental quarterback without question, but he is the kind who is worth pouring time into in hopes that he maximizes his potential.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? It's one thing to say a quarterback is a project. It is another thing for a team to allow him to develop. Cleveland's quarterback room is not overly inspiring, so Green could start at some point this year. Would it be advisable? No. But with Jackson-like athleticism, he would likely be worth starting in fantasy.

187) RB Kaytron Allen, Washington Commanders (Film Profile | Analytical Profile)

Team Fit: If anything is clear entering Year 3 of the Dan Quinn era, it is that he doesn't prioritize a workhorse running back. Brian Robinson Jr. (187 carries) remains the closest thing the Commanders have had to one. On a depth chart that now features Rachaad White, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Jerome Ford and now Allen, it seems clear nothing is going to change. Allen may be the most natural runner of the group, but his addition seems more like the team adding a cheap replacement for Chris Rodriguez Jr. than anything.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Rodriguez obviously had some moments down the stretch of last season, so there is a path to playing time and fantasy relevancy for Allen. With that said, Croskey-Merritt will enter training camp with an edge on Allen for early-down work, and that assumes White isn't ahead of both of them.

195) WR Malik Benson, Las Vegas Raiders

Team Fit: The depth chart at receiver opened up in a big way following last season's Jakobi Meyers trade, which means just about any player with some talent has a shot to see playing time. The projected starters entering training camp will be 2025 second-round pick Jack Bech, Tre Tucker and former Viking Jalen Nailor, who is going to see plenty of playing time if only because he signed a three-year deal for $35 million in free agency. In short, don't discount the possibility that Malik Benson makes some noise in Las Vegas. Remember how Klint Kubiak unlocked Rashid Shaheed back in New Orleans? Benson has similar speed. Perhaps all he becomes at the pro level is a field-stretcher, but his ability to create explosive plays will be welcome in Sin City.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Benson probably isn't going to beat out Tucker for a starting job, but the possibility of it should not be dismissed. If he does so in camp, he could be a WR5/6 worth stashing on benches in deeper leagues.

Sep 27, 2025; Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons running back Demond Claiborne (1) runs the ball gainst Wake Forest Demon Deacons defensive back Zamari Stevenson (17) during the third quarter at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images

198) RB Demond Claiborne, Minnesota Vikings

Team Fit: Claiborne absolutely has a chance to make some noise in Minnesota. In a league that is thirsty for big-play ability, Claiborne will provide it. (Of Claiborne's 179 carries last season, 12.8% of them went for more than 10 yards.) He is also one of the few backs in this draft class who has the elusiveness to avoid tacklers in a phone booth. Claiborne is also a dynamic kickoff returner with two return touchdowns on his resume. While that figures to be the area where he contributes immediately, don't discount the possibility that he does more than that. Jordan Mason lost playing time as last season progressed, while Aaron Jones will turn 32 before the end of the season. For all the good things that Zavier Scott did while Jones was injured last season, it seems Claiborne is poised to take his spot on the roster. He could eventually become the same kind of weapon Chris Thompson was for the Commanders last decade.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? Claiborne is a player fantasy managers need to keep tabs on during training camp. His size (195 pounds at his pro day) and ball security issues (five fumbles on 179 carries last year) will likely keep him in a reserve role in his rookie year, but it should be noted that this is a team that believes it is capable of a deep playoff run. Jones and Mason weren't enough last season and it probably will not be enough in 2026. Claiborne will not need to be drafted in most leagues, but he could emerge as an important figure at some point if injuries wreck this backfield again.

230) RB/WR Eli Heidenreich, Pittsburgh Steelers

Team Fit: Heidenreich is not just a feel-good story after becoming a passing-game weapon at run-heavy Navy. He tested out similarly to Christian McCaffrey at the Combine. His fit is a bit more unclear, as he is listed as a running back and was announced as such at the draft, but he is more of a hybrid player who can handle jet sweeps and is probably more of a slot receiver at this point in his career. Especially on a depth chart that has Rico Dowdle, Jaylen Warren and 2025 third-round pick Kaleb Johnson, it will be difficult for the team to keep him at running back.

What does it mean in redraft (12 teams, non-Superflex)? The first challenge fantasy managers will be waiting on the Steelers to decide if he is deemed a running back or a wide receiver. As a slot receiver on an offense with DK Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr., it is hard to see much of a path toward fantasy production. As a running back, the occasional jet sweep and the four-or-five target game are enough to get him on the radar. Is it likely in 2026? No. Is it possible? More so for him than the average seventh-round pick.

Left out:
105) Brenen Thompson
110) Cade Klubnik
121) Kaden Wetjen
133) Matthew Hibner
140) Colbie Young
143) Reggie Virgil
164) Tanner Kozoil
168) Kendrick Law
169) Riley Nowakowski
170) Joe Royer
173) Josh Cuevas
176) Cyrus Allen
180) Seydou Traore
185) Bauer Sharp
190) Barion Brown
191) Josh Cameron
197) CJ Daniels
199) Emmanuel Henderson
203) C.J. Williams
204) Lewis Bond
216) Trey Smack
218) Anthony Smith
221) Jack Endries
223) Athan Kaliakmanis
225) Jaren Kanak
234) Behren Morton
237) Seth McGowan
245) Jam Miller
248) Carsen Ryan
249) Garrett Nussmeier
254) Deion Burks

This article originally appeared on The Huddle: 2026 NFL Draft: Day 3 Fantasy Football Recap