Each week in the NFL is its own story — full of surprises, both positive and negative — and fantasy football managers must decide what to believe and what not to believe moving forward. Perhaps we can help. If any of these thoughts come true … don’t be surprised!
NOTE: All mention of fantasy points is for PPR formats, unless otherwise mentioned.
Kyren Williams continues to outperform expectations, solidifying his status as one of the top running backs in fantasy football. After surpassing 1,100 rushing yards in each of the past three seasons and consistently finishing in the top 10 at his position, Williams entered 2026 ranked 14th among running backs in ESPN ADP despite his track record. This undervaluation makes him an intriguing asset for fantasy managers.
The Los Angeles Rams appear to be leaning on Williams more heavily in the passing game, which could elevate his production even further. While rookie Blake Corum still contributes on early downs, Williams has recorded 16 receptions for 137 yards on 20 targets over the past two weeks. This increased involvement through the air suggests the Rams may have underestimated Williams’ receiving capabilities. If this trend continues, Williams could deliver his best season yet.
Currently leading the Rams in fantasy points heading into their Monday night matchup against the Buffalo Bills, Williams is on pace for his typical rushing statistics but with enhanced passing-down contributions. His 25 targets through four games already surpass his total from the entire 2025 season, indicating a significant shift in usage that favors fantasy managers who drafted him.
In contrast, Christian McCaffrey is experiencing a noticeable decline in volume and efficiency. After accumulating a staggering 311 rushing attempts and 102 receptions last season, McCaffrey is currently on pace for just 213 rushes and 68 receptions. While he continues to find the end zone, his overall fantasy output has dropped to roughly four points per game compared to Williams.
Additional Running Back Insight: Managers struggling with Chase Brown may want to remain patient. Despite a slight dip in production compared to last season, Brown faces a manageable upcoming schedule that includes matchups against the Miami Dolphins, Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders, and New Orleans Saints following their bye week.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams has quietly established himself as a reliable deep threat, despite not matching the volume of other top receivers. Though he enters Week 5 with modest stats—a 16-catch, 229-yard, zero-touchdown line averaging 9.7 fantasy points per game—his explosive playmaking ability and favorable schedule suggest a breakout could be imminent.
Last season, Williams averaged 12.9 fantasy points per game and ranked among the top 11 receivers in total scoring. While his volume may never reach elite levels due to the presence of Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Sam LaPorta, Williams has demonstrated consistency and big-play potential. His current 90.6% ESPN roster rate reflects growing confidence among fantasy managers, and his upcoming schedule—including games against the Green Bay Packers, Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Chicago Bears—presents multiple opportunities for impact performances.
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Raiders tight end Brock Bowers has wasted no time reasserting his dominance since returning from injury. After missing the first two games of the season, Bowers exploded for 27.6 and 20.6 fantasy points in his last two outings, ranking ninth among all tight ends despite playing just four games. His rookie season performance—112 catches for 1,194 yards—set high expectations, and early indications suggest he’s ready to exceed them in his second year.
Bowers’ teammate Michael Mayer is also showing increased promise. Following a strong performance against the Kansas City Chiefs—eight receptions on 10 targets for 82 yards and a touchdown—Mayer leads the Raiders with 20 catches through four games. With Bowers drawing defensive focus, Mayer has carved out a clear role as the team’s secondary tight end option, running routes on nearly 70% of offensive snaps in recent weeks.
The tight end landscape beyond the established stars remains unpredictable, creating opportunities for emerging players like Mayer to step into starting lineups. With George Kittle and Sam LaPorta dealing with injuries and age-related decline, and Travis Kelce entering the latter stages of his career, the door is wide open for new faces to emerge as weekly contributors.
New England quarterback Drake Maye delivered a promising 26.16-point performance in his team’s victory over the Buffalo Bills, but questions remain about his long-term fantasy viability. While the 54 rushing yards added valuable juice to his stat line, his three fumbles and interception highlight ongoing concerns with ball security. Additionally, the Patriots’ receiving corps offers limited weapons compared to other top fantasy quarterbacks, making Maye a risky proposition despite occasional explosive outbursts.
