Nine Fantasy Football Late-Rounders to Target
As we approach the final rounds of fantasy football drafts, it’s often the deep cuts and sleeper picks that can turn a good team into a great one. These are the players who might not be on everyone’s radar but could provide tremendous value as the season progresses. Here are nine fantasy late-rounders to consider drafting this year:
- Nico Collins, WR, Houston Texans
With the Texans in rebuild mode, Collins could emerge as a top target. He’s shown flashes of potential, and with the departure of Brandin Cooks, the opportunity is there for him to step up and be a consistent contributor. - Tyjae Spears, RB, Tennessee Titans
Spears has been drawing attention in camp as a dynamic runner with pass-catching ability. If Derrick Henry starts to show signs of wear and tear, Spears could be in line for a significant workload, making him a high-upside stash. - Romeo Doubs, WR, Green Bay Packers
Doubs developed a good rapport with Jordan Love in preseason, and with the uncertainty around Christian Watson’s durability, Doubs could carve out a sizeable role in the Packers’ offense. - Sam Howell, QB, Washington Commanders
Howell has secured the starting job in Washington and has the dual-threat ability that fantasy owners love. If he can develop chemistry with Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson, Howell could be a sneaky good QB2. - Tank Bigsby, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Bigsby is pushing for touches in the Jaguars’ backfield. With Travis Etienne handling a heavy workload, Bigsby could find himself in a solid role, especially in short-yardage situations. - Jalin Hyatt, WR, New York Giants
Hyatt’s speed and playmaking ability give him a chance to be a big-play threat for the Giants. If he can earn regular snaps, he could quickly become a fantasy favorite as a deep threat. - Luke Musgrave, TE, Green Bay Packers
Rookie tight ends usually struggle, but Musgrave has the talent and opportunity to be an exception. With Love at the helm and the Packers needing reliable targets, Musgrave could become a go-to option, especially in the red zone. - Rashid Shaheed, WR, New Orleans Saints
Shaheed is a name that has been buzzing all preseason. With Michael Thomas still a question mark and Chris Olave demanding attention from defenses, Shaheed could emerge as a valuable deep threat. - Zamir White, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
With the uncertainty surrounding Josh Jacobs’ contract situation, White has the potential to take on a larger role. If Jacobs misses time or is limited, White could see significant touches in the Raiders’ offense.
Jets Drama: Business as Usual
Meanwhile, in the world of the New York Jets, the more things change, the more they stay the same. Despite a blockbuster offseason that brought in future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers, drama continues to surround the team.
The tension between the new regime and former quarterback Zach Wilson has been palpable, with rumors swirling about whether the young QB will stick around as Rodgers’ backup or seek a fresh start elsewhere. Wilson, who was once seen as the Jets’ future, has found himself sidelined both literally and figuratively as Rodgers takes over the offense.
Adding to the intrigue, the Jets have had some high-profile camp battles, particularly at wide receiver and offensive line, where veterans and rookies alike are vying for starting spots. The competition has led to some heated moments in practice, with coaches and players feeling the pressure to perform under the New York spotlight.
Off the field, the media frenzy around Rodgers has been as intense as expected, with every move and word dissected. While Rodgers has brought a level of excitement and optimism to the Jets, he’s also brought the kind of attention that can quickly turn toxic if the team doesn’t start winning.
As the regular season approaches, the Jets are a team to watch—not just for their potential on the field, but for the inevitable drama that seems to follow them every year. With a tough schedule ahead, they’ll need to manage their internal conflicts as much as their opponents if they hope to make the playoffs for the first time since 2010.
In fantasy football, as in real life, it pays to keep an eye on the unexpected. Whether it’s a late-round sleeper who breaks out or a team like the Jets that’s always in the headlines for better or worse, the key to success is staying informed and ready to adapt.