Fantasy analysts recommend key Week 1 starters and tough calls for 2026 season
Frank Ammirante outlines several players he believes merit starting spots in Week 1, including RB Bhayshul Tuten, RB Rico Dowdle, WR Marvin Harrison Jr., WR Tre Tucker, QB Jared Goff and TE Michael Mayer.
Fantasy football strategist Frank Ammirante offered his Week 1 lineup recommendations for the 2026 NFL season, highlighting players he rates above consensus. He suggested starting Jacksonville running back Bhayshul Tuten against the Browns, noting the Jaguars' 8.5-point home advantage and a high-powered offense that could benefit both backs. For Pittsburgh, Ammirante favored running back Rico Dowdle over Jaylen Warren in the matchup with the Falcons, citing Dowdle's familiarity with new head coach Mike McCarthy and the Steelers' six-point home edge.
At wide receiver, Ammirante recommended Arizona's Marvin Harrison Jr. in the contest with the Chargers, expecting the new head coach to create more scoring opportunities in a likely shootout. He also listed Las Vegas wideout Tre Tucker as a starter against the Dolphins, pointing to increased target volume after Brock Bowers' injury and the Raiders' home-field advantage.
Quarterback Jared Goff was identified as a viable start for Detroit against the Saints, with Ammirante noting the projected high-scoring nature of the game and the Lions' defensive uncertainties. Finally, he advised starting Las Vegas tight end Michael Mayer versus the Dolphins, emphasizing the increased role following Bowers' sidelining and the team's two-tight-end formations.
Ammirante encouraged managers to consult RotoBaller’s rankings and the free "Who Should I Start" tool for additional comparisons when finalizing lineups.