Are you ready for the storm of the 2026 NFL Draft? Matthew Berry, the fantasy football guru, has delivered his relentless verdict on the biggest surprises and disappointments of this season, making it clear that the game has changed significantly. With free agency nearly closed and rosters almost finalized, the moment of truth is approaching: who will shine and who will fade into the obscurity of the statistics?
Berry begins by acknowledging the obvious: uncertainty reigns, but at the same time, there is a new clarity that allows fantasy fans to prepare their strategies with a bit more confidence. The draft has passed, the moves are nearly complete, and all that remains is the release of the schedules and the start of the rookie mini-camps. However, there are still crucial questions such as the fate of Stefon Diggs, the potential trade of Brandon Aiyuk, or the whereabouts of Jauan Jennings, which promise to shake up the markets.
As he flew to Louisville for the iconic Kentucky Derby, Berry was preparing to present a special edition of his show “Fantasy Football Happy Hour,” where he would feature the traditional “Love/Hate – Post NFL Draft” segment. In this segment, he reveals who has gained value and who has lost it in the new competitive landscape of the NFL, pointing out players and situations that will dictate the rules of fantasy in 2026.
At the forefront of the quarterbacks, Tyler Shough stands out as a positive surprise. After becoming the undisputed starter for the New Orleans Saints, the team has bolstered its lineup with names like Travis Etienne and newly drafted Jordyn Tyson, raising expectations for a solid performance from Shough, who has already shown potential by finishing last season as QB12 in points per game. Kellen Moore, the mastermind behind the Saints’ offense, is another strong point that inspires confidence.
On the other hand, Malik Willis with the Dolphins emerges as a significant question mark. Despite the team’s clear investment in him, the lack of talent in the receiving corps and the late selection of receivers in the draft leave Berry skeptical about Willis’s real chances of succeeding on a team that seems to underestimate offensive needs. His ability to run will be utilized, but the absence of reliable targets could be detrimental to his fantasy value.
As for the running backs, Chase Brown of the Bengals shines with minimal competition and an impressive production history, firmly establishing him as a top RB2 for the new season. Cam Skattebo of the New York Giants also deserves attention, taking on the lead role in a solid backfield, while Bhayshul Tuten of the Jaguars is noted as a potential breakout candidate, benefiting from the lack of strong competitors.
However, not all running backs have reasons to smile. The Arizona Cardinals, with the signing of Jeremiyah Love, have relegated Tyler Allgeier to a secondary role, while James Conner struggles with injuries and advancing age to maintain fantasy relevance. In Denver, rookie Jonah Coleman threatens RJ Harvey’s position on a team that traditionally distributes opportunities among multiple running backs, making it difficult for any of them to shine exclusively.
Among the pass catchers, Rashee Rice of the Chiefs is the uncontested star, boasting impressive numbers and a solid role in the offense, despite concerns over his physical reliability. DeVonta Smith, now with more opportunities following AJ Brown’s departure to another team, emerges as one of the biggest chances to dominate targets in Philadelphia.
However, shadows are also being cast. Calvin Ridley, at 32 years old and with recent injuries, is on a downward spiral in his fantasy value, while Rashod Bateman faces strong competition on the Baltimore Ravens, who have bolstered their receiving corps with young prospects, threatening his status. Similarly, Harold Fannin and Jerry Jeudy in Cleveland see their production jeopardized by recent additions that promise to divide the offensive pie.
Finally, tight end Brock Bowers of the Raiders is being pointed out as a true goldmine, with guaranteed volume on a team lacking receivers and a quarterback who tends to favor his close targets, making him a must-have choice for anyone looking for a solid TE2.
This post-draft outlook by Matthew Berry serves as a true warning for all fantasy football managers: the market is in turmoil, the opportunities are real, but the traps are many. Get ready to play smart, taking advantage of surprises and avoiding the foreseen failures, because in 2026, in the NFL world, those who do not adapt will fall behind.
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
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