Preseason Week 1 Fantasy Insights Highlight Emerging Running Back Roles
Analyst Hayden Winks reviews first-week preseason performances, noting increased workloads for players like De'Von Achane and Jeramiyah Love, and identifies several sleepers for the 2026 fantasy drafts.
Hayden Winks examined the opening week of NFL preseason games, focusing on snap counts, alignments and player performance to gauge fantasy value. He highlighted Miami’s rookie running back De'Von Achane, who received seven carries and participated in every snap of the Dolphins’ first drive, suggesting a significant role in the regular season and recommending him as an early second-round pick. In New York, first-round wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. was seen behind Isaiah Williams, indicating a possible slide on draft boards, while Breece Hall’s limited snaps hinted at a modest but reliable fantasy upside.
In Denver, the Broncos’ backfield saw RJ Harvey start in place of the injured JK Dobbins, with rookie running back Kaytron Allen (nicknamed “Fatman”) logging 23 carries for the Commanders, positioning him as a potential depth option. The Cardinals gave rookie Jeramiyah Love a larger share of snaps than veteran Tyler Allgeier, prompting Winks to consider him a second-round candidate despite a minor ankle issue.
Other observations included the Packers’ faster offensive tempo, which could boost overall fantasy points, and the 49ers’ rookie wide receiver De'Zhaun Stribling showing strong play that may elevate him above established veterans. Winks also noted that several teams rested starters, limiting data on certain positions, but identified emerging sleepers such as the Broncos’ RB Kaytron Allen, the Steelers’ rookie receiver Germie Bernard, and the Patriots’ TE Eli Raridon.
Overall, the analyst emphasized that preseason snap distribution and usage patterns provide early indicators for fantasy drafts, especially for players receiving significant early workload.