Preseason Week 2 Highlights Reveal Rookies and Backfield Rotations for Fantasy Outlook
Friday's preseason games showed the New York Jets promoting rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., the Steelers rotating running backs Jaylen Warren and Rico Dowdle, and several other positional battles that could affect 2026 fantasy values.
The New York Jets gave first-round rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. his first start, moving him ahead of slot veteran Isaiah Williams in the second-half series. Cooper saw snaps both in the slot and on the outside, indicating the coaching staff is testing his versatility, though his fantasy relevance will depend on how often he plays in 12-personnel groups.
The Pittsburgh Steelers opened the game with running back Jaylen Warren starting over Rico Dowdle, but the two shared a rotating role throughout the first half. While Warren’s early start may hint at a slight edge, the rotation is typical of preseason usage and may not reflect regular-season snap distribution.
In the Steelers’ wide-receiver group, both Germie Bernard and Roman Wilson started, with Bernard lining up on the outside and Wilson primarily in the slot. Neither appears likely to become a regular fantasy contributor unless injuries to starters persist.
The Carolina Panthers continued to feature Jonathon Brooks in a prominent role, playing the majority of snaps with the starters. With running back Chuba Hubbard still sidelined by a hamstring, Brooks could see an expanded role heading into Week 1.
The Jacksonville Jaguars gave sixth-round rookie CJ Williams increased slot-receiver snaps, though he remains a depth option unless starter Parker Washington misses time.
Denver’s newly acquired top receiver Jaylen Waddle made his debut alongside Courtland Sutton, both appearing on the first drive before the Broncos rotated through other receivers. Tight end Evan Engram logged a higher share of snaps with the starters, suggesting a potentially larger role under new offensive coordinator Davis Webb.
The Green Bay Packers used MarShawn Lloyd as the primary backup running back on early downs, with Chris Brooks seeing more third-down duty. Wide receiver Skyy Moore filled in for the inactive Jayden Reed, while tight end Tucker Kraft was still easing back into practice.
Overall, the preseason action highlighted several players who could become late-round fantasy picks or waiver-wire targets, while also underscoring the uncertainty of depth-chart positions until regular-season rosters solidify.