The 2026 NFL draft is underway with Round 1 on ESPN. As several talented college stars such as Fernando Mendoza, Jeremiyah Love and Carnell Tate make their way to the pros, NFL fans and fantasy managers alike are wondering what these players can bring to their new teams.
Who has immediate fantasy potential, who’s worth a late-round flier, and who’s an intriguing dynasty stash?
Our ESPN fantasy football analysts Liz Loza and Matt Bowen have you covered, as they offer their analysis of each skill position player selected in the first three rounds of the draft, and Mike Clay provides his projections for these incoming rookies.
It’s never too early to think about fantasy football, and the draft is the perfect place to start.
Mike Clay’s 2026 projection: 304-of-481, 3,220 yards, 16 TDs, 11 INTs;
52 carries, 225 yards, 2 TDs (15 starts)
As expected, Mendoza goes No. 1 to Las Vegas, and we like the scheme fit under new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. We’ll see rhythmic play-action throws and movement concepts that cater to Mendoza’s accuracy and timing as a passer. He led the nation with 41 touchdowns last season at Indiana. However, with the club adding veteran QB Kirk Cousins to the mix this offseason, Mendoza’s 2026 ceiling in redraft formats is limited. He’s best served as a target in 2QB and superflex leagues and dynasty formats. — Bowen
Leave a Reply