The 2026 NFL draft is complete, and fantasy sports fans across the country will be paying close attention to the impact they may have to begin their pro careers.
Taking rookies is often seen as quite a risk for fantasy football, but it’s a high-risk, high-reward choice that could make a massive difference to your team. Here’s a look at three of the best players drafted in the first round that you should consider drafting.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Arizona Cardinals
Drafted third by the Arizona Cardinals, Jeremiyah Love is the first running back off the board and is likely going to be a cornerstone of the Arizona Cardinals’ offense for years to come. He’s the highest running back pick since Saquon Barkley was picked second overall by the New York Giants in 2018.
Love’s high ceiling is obviously an advantage to picking him up. He had plenty of touches in his final season at Notre Dame, and will be ready to hit the ground running from day one. If you want to get a head start on your DFS contests with your friends and your season-long projections, you can use Sleeper Fantasy promotions and review your options before the season starts in September.
Carnell Tate, WR, Tennessee Titans
The fourth pick in the draft and the top wide receiver selected — out of Ohio State yet again — serves an immediate need for the Tennessee Titans.
The Titans’ receiving group ranked 29th in yards per game last season and 31st in touchdowns. Tate arrives and immediately becomes one of the first options for second-year QB Cam Ward.
His ability to catch contested balls is highly rated by many scouts, and he’s expected to have a serious impact for the Titans and fantasy teams alike. Drafting him may be the steal of your season.
Jordyn Tyson, WR, New Orleans Saints
Jordyn Tyson is another wide receiver who could be a critical differential come the start of the season in September.
Tyson was drafted eighth by the New Orleans Saints because of one particular standout skill: his ability to create separation from his coverage makes him a consistent open target for his QB.
He also fits well with the Saints’ offensive style. Tyson’s high yards per run route suggests he will maximize his targets even if the Saints maintain a balanced run-pass ratio, as most people expect them to.
Tyson is a high-risk play, especially if you’re considering drafting him early, but he has the capability of producing big plays and big points for the bravest of fantasy managers.
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