Chris' analysis of the RotoBaller staff's fantasy football dynasty startup mock draft for Superflex leagues ahead of the 2026 fantasy season. Includes notes about changing values post free agency moves.
Spring is the time for sprouting flowers, April showers, and the dawn of hope as ice melts into a dewy morning. However, for true football degenerates, spring is exclusively the time for dynasty startup drafts. For some of us, no matter how many leagues we are already in, we cannot help but enroll in draft after draft to feed our need for football in the offseason.
With that in mind, our staff got together for a full staff dynasty startup draft. The format we chose was Superflex, meaning you start one quarterback and have a flex position that can be filled with a second passer if you choose… and you should choose to do that. This league is otherwise standard, with no TE Premium scoring or other unique tweaks.
Below you will find each team drafted, with the starting lineup and bench laid out, along with the corresponding picks and rounds for each player. Please note that this mock was conducted prior to the beginning of free agency, but the analysis of each team was written after the first wave of free agency in order to give you better context in light of those free agency moves.
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Team #1 (Dakota Legg)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Josh Allen | Bills | 1.1 | |||
| RB | James Cook III | Bills | 2.12 | |||
| RB | Breece Hall | Jets | 4.12 | |||
| WR | Ladd McConkey | Chargers | 5.1 | |||
| WR | Jaylen Waddle | Dolphins | 6.12 | |||
| WR | Davante Adams | Rams | 9.1 | |||
| TE | Trey McBride | Cardinals | 3.1 | |||
| Flex | Emmett Johnson | Rookie | 8.12 | |||
| Flex | Kenyon Sadiq | Rookie | 11.1 | |||
| SF | Tyler Shough | Saints | 7.1 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| QB | Ty Simpson | Rookie | 10.12 | |||
| WR | Brandon Aiyuk | 49ers | 12.12 | |||
| RB | David Montgomery | Texans | 13.1 | |||
| RB | Alvin Kamara | Saints | 14.12 | |||
| WR | Rashid Shaheed | Seahawks | 15.1 | |||
| RB | Demond Claiborne | Rookie | 16.12 | |||
| WR | Isaac TeSlaa | Lions | 17.1 | |||
| QB | Carson Beck | Rookie | 18.12 | |||
| WR | Tre Tucker | Raiders | 19.1 | |||
| WR | Eric McAlister | Rookie | 20.12 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 6 | 1 | Win Now | ||||
Best Picks: Getting Kenyon Sadiq 121st overall was a bargain for Dakota.
While this is not a TE Premium format, Sadiq displays rare athleticism and receiving skills on film that should translate in the NFL. In other words, the film backs up the testing numbers. There is also a good chance the Oregon product lands with a TE-friendly offense (Kansas City, San Francisco, etc.), which means his fantasy stock could skyrocket quickly.
Tyler Shough at 7.01 is also a good value, considering that the Saints appear committed to the Louisville product and are building a promising offense around him. With Travis Etienne Jr. now a Saint, Shough should have more room to run and complete easy passes. In Superflex formats, Shough’s mobility, blocking, and play-calling all make him an intriguing QB2 option.
Worst Picks: It is worth noting that this mock occurred before Breece Hall was franchise-tagged by the Jets… but taking Hall at 4.12 was still a bit rich before he got the tag. After the tag, it’s even worse.
Hall made my list of Dynasty Sells last month because his advanced metrics aren't as strong as many think, and his situation in New York is concerning. Now he looks to be committed to that bad situation for another year, or longer if the contract extension buzz comes to fruition.
Emmett Johnson at 8.12 was also a bit of a reach, considering he does not have any elite measurables and is widely considered the fourth or fifth best running back in a weak rookie class. This felt like a panic pick after a heavy dose of running backs went right before.
Predicting Team Outcome: It is hard to draft the Bills duo of Josh Allen and James Cook III and not be considered a win-now build. Allen still has some good years left, but his playing style suggests his fantasy value could dip around age 32, rather than the age 36-38 we see with traditional passers. Meanwhile, Cook is an elite rusher, but his usage and age are worrisome.
Throw in the fact that Dakota used premium picks on Trey McBride, Hall, and Davante Adams, and this team has the bones of an early contender. Of course, some of these players will age quickly, and that could force the window to close soon, particularly with the potentially short lifespan of his Bills superstars.
There is a world where Hall, Emmett Johnson, and Sadiq all hit their ceilings early, and this team contends. However, the profile for Johnson and Hall suggests both won’t carry their weight in 2026 and that their peaks will come after Allen, Adams, and Cook’s are done.
Team #2 (Phil Clark)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Drake Maye | Patriots | 1.2 | |||
| RB | De'Von Achane | Dolphins | 2.11 | |||
| RB | Josh Jacobs | Packers | 6.11 | |||
| WR | Nico Collins | Texans | 3.2 | |||
| WR | Denzel Boston | Rookie | 7.2 | |||
| WR | Terry McLaurin | Commanders | 8.11 | |||
| TE | Colston Loveland | Bears | 4.11 | |||
| Flex | D'Andre Swift | Bears | 9.2 | |||
| Flex | Woody Marks | Texans | 10.11 | |||
| SF | Cam Ward | Titans | 5.2 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| WR | Omar Cooper Jr. | Rookie | 11.2 | |||
| WR | Jalen Coker | Panthers | 12.11 | |||
| RB | Tony Pollard | Titans | 13.2 | |||
| RB | Mike Washington Jr. | Rookie | 14.11 | |||
| QB | Jacoby Brissett | Cardinals | 15.2 | |||
| TE | Mason Taylor | Jets | 16.11 | |||
| WR | Kyle Williams | Patriots | 17.2 | |||
| QB | Cole Payton | Rookie | 18.11 | |||
| RB | Najee Harris | Chargers | 19.2 | |||
| WR | Deion Burks | Rookie | 20.11 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 5 | 5 | Balanced | ||||
Best Picks: Phil’s best pick was easily Colston Loveland.
Including the playoffs, Loveland averaged a whopping 12 targets per game, which set him on a pace of 204 targets over a 17-game schedule. While that pace is unsustainable, Caleb Williams has referred to the rookie as a “home run pick,” and the quarterback’s potential reliance on Loveland makes him a bargain at 47th overall.
Getting Drake Maye at 1.02 was also an easy win, given that Maye is the top overall player in many Superflex dynasty rankings. While many may question Maye’s weak 2026 schedule, especially after a disappointing Super Bowl, remember that the North Carolina alum finished second in total fantasy points as a sophomore without a clear WR1 or WR2 on the team.
Rounding out Phil’s best picks, we must mention Omar Cooper Jr. The National Champion is a dynamic weapon who could become a first-round pick on a quality offense like San Francisco’s or New England’s. If the shifty receiver lands in one of those scenarios, expect his ADP to jump two full rounds from where Phil took him (122nd overall).
Worst Picks: Phil didn’t have too many headscratchers in this mock, but Woody Marks was not a favorite.
While many would call Marks a bargain in the 10th round, the USC alum was wildly inefficient as a rusher, and his college film never suggested he could be a lead back. Amongst backs with at least 70 carries, Marks ranked 52nd in yards after contact per attempt and 28th in explosive run rate. That was all bad news, even before Houston traded for David Montgomery.
Another potential reach for Phil was Nico Collins at 3.02.
While Collins still carries attractive upside, he is an aging receiver with questions all around him. However, Collins was not an awful choice in a vacuum… but the run on quarterbacks that happened soon after poisoned the well. Had Phil taken Trevor Lawrence at 3.02 instead, he would not have been forced to reach for Cam Ward as his QB2 early in the fifth round.
Predicting Team Outcome: Phil’s receiver room is a bit of a question mark, given that two of his top wideouts are aging (Collins and Terry McLaurin), while his WR2 is the fourth-rated receiver in this upcoming rookie class.
Phil also has questions at Flex, where Marks and D’Andre Swift both profile as short-term assets who could be phased out of fantasy relevance next season (Swift) or this year (Marks).
However, Phil’s starting running backs are elite. His QB1 and starting TE both offer immense upside with youth, talent, and favorable situations around them. If Ward were to hit his ceiling and Loveland continues to be Chicago’s top weapon for the next five years, this team should contend for the foreseeable future.
Team #3 (Chris Gregory)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Jayden Daniels | Commanders | 1.3 | |||
| RB | Jeremiyah Love | Rookie | 3.3 | |||
| RB | Bhayshul Tuten | Jaguars | 8.10 | |||
| WR | Carnell Tate | Rookie | 5.3 | |||
| WR | Jordyn Tyson | Rookie | 6.10 | |||
| WR | Rome Odunze | Bears | 7.3 | |||
| TE | Brock Bowers | Raiders | 2.10 | |||
| Flex | Tyreek Hill | Dolphins | 14.10 | |||
| Flex | Oronde Gadsden | Chargers | 11.3 | |||
| SF | Fernando Mendoza | Rookie | 4.10 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| QB | Malik Willis | Free Agent | 9.3 | |||
| RB | Nicholas Singleton | Rookie | 10.10 | |||
| RB | Jonathon Brooks | Panthers | 12.10 | |||
| WR | Zachariah Branch | Rookie | 13.3 | |||
| WR | Malachi Fields | Rookie | 15.3 | |||
| WR | Tank Dell | Texans | 16.10 | |||
| QB | Shedeur Sanders | Browns | 17.3 | |||
| WR | Ted Hurst | Rookie | 18.10 | |||
| QB | Garrett Nussmeier | Rookie | 19.3 | |||
| WR | Jack Bech | Raiders | 20.10 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 9 | 4 | Future Build | ||||
Best Picks: Perhaps my best pick was selecting Bhayshul Tuten 94th overall, knowing that his stock was suppressed by Etienne’s presence, but Etienne was likely to leave in free agency. That gamble proved right within a week, as Etienne left and Tuten seemingly has the RB1 job in Jacksonville to himself… barring a surprising move in the NFL Draft.
While Tuten carries significant risk, the Jaguars do not have a first-round pick in the NFL Draft, and this rookie class is weak at RB. So, Tuten and his elite athleticism should have a big runway to take off. Thus, taking him in the eighth round was a gamble that is already paying off.
Another worthwhile risk was Jonathon Brooks going 130th overall.
While the 12th round is a tad early for Brooks, considering his current ADP and injury status, all reports on the former Longhorn’s injury rehab are positive, and he is easily the most athletic and polished back in Carolina when healthy. A 23-year-old back with high-end RB2 potential is worth the 130th pick, even if he never plays another down in the NFL.
Finally, both Garrett Nussmeier and Ted Hurst are solid values at the 18/19 round turn. Nussmeier has a realistic chance of going in the second round of the NFL Draft and has the skills to become the next Geno Smith. Meanwhile, Hurst is a phenomenal athlete who has burned almost everyone he faced, both at the lower level of college football and at the Senior Bowl.
Worst Picks: Brock Bowers was a logical choice at 2.10, especially considering the guy picking behind me (Phil) is a Raiders fan. However, this mock saw a lot of premium tight end talent fall well past their ADP, which meant I ended up regretting taking Bowers instead of going quarterback (Jaxson Dart) with my second pick while waiting on tight end.
In hindsight, waiting to draft Colston Loveland in the fourth round would have been my preferred method, and I strongly regretted not going that route almost immediately. Taking a QB earlier and still getting Loveland in the fourth would have broadened my roster options while still giving me a significant edge at the TE position.
Instead, I neglected my QB2 position and took Bowers… which was a decision that rippled throughout the rest of my draft and forced me to commit to a youth/win-later build early.
Predicting Team Outcome: This team is the definition of a lottery ticket and a future build.
If Jeremiyah Love turns into a Jahmyr Gibbs-style asset while Carnell Tate and Jordyn Tyson reach their physical ceilings, this team could be a contender for a decade or more. However, I admittedly went too heavy with the rookie and youth picks, which means this roster could quickly devolve into a long rebuild if I miss on those top rookies.
Team #4 (Dan Fornek)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Justin Herbert | Chargers | 2.9 | |||
| RB | Omarion Hampton | Chargers | 3.4 | |||
| RB | TreVeyon Henderson | Patriots | 5.4 | |||
| WR | Ja'Marr Chase | Bengals | 1.4 | |||
| WR | DeVonta Smith | Eagles | 7.4 | |||
| WR | Christian Watson | Packers | 8.9 | |||
| TE | Isaiah Likely | Giants | 14.9 | |||
| Flex | RJ Harvey | Broncos | 6.9 | |||
| Flex | Alec Pierce | Colts | 9.4 | |||
| SF | Jared Goff | Lions | 4.9 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| RB | Tyler Allgeier | Cardinals | 10.9 | |||
| WR | Matthew Golden | Packers | 11.4 | |||
| RB | Tyrone Tracy Jr. | Giants | 12.9 | |||
| WR | Josh Downs | Colts | 13.4 | |||
| RB | Tyjae Spears | Titans | 15.4 | |||
| TE | AJ Barner | Seahawks | 16.9 | |||
| RB | Devin Neal | Saints | 17.4 | |||
| TE | Max Klare | Rookie | 18.9 | |||
| QB | Mac Jones | 49ers | 19.4 | |||
| TE | Elijah Arroyo | TE | 20.9 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 1 | 5 | Win Now | ||||
Best Picks: Justin Herbert was arguably Dan’s best pick of the draft.
In six games with Joe Alt on the field, Herbert averaged just shy of 24 points per game in four-point passing touchdown leagues, and he was on pace to be QB1 overall in fantasy. QB1 could be a realistic goal for Herbert in 2026, too, considering he should get two elite tackles back this offseason and his new offensive coordinator is much more creative in the passing game.
Another strong pick for Dan was Isaiah Likely in the 14th round.
At the time of this choice, Likely did not have a new team, but we all expected he would land somewhere where he would be a starter and see real volume. That expectation became reality when the former Raven signed with his old head coach in New York, setting him up for a starter-level snap share and potentially the second-most targets on the Giants’ offense.
Worst Picks: The biggest reach for Dan was RJ Harvey in the sixth round.
Harvey was one of the least efficient rushers in the NFL last year. He finished 64th in PFF’s Rushing Grade, 81st in yards after contact per attempt, and he graded poorly as a blocker. The newly re-signed J.K. Dobbins graded better in each of those categories.
While Harvey could still be Denver’s primary passing downs back, taking him at 69th overall was rich when you consider his inefficiency and the team’s interest in adding running back competition this offseason.
Predicting Team Outcome: Dan had a strong draft, with only one obvious head-scratching pick amongst his starters. Herbert's availability in the second made his decision to select Ja’Marr Chase in the first round look brilliant. He then solidified his balanced roster with a youthful but talented running back room and a steady QB2 (Jared Goff).
The only downside to this build is the fact that some of Dan’s potential depends on changes of scenery or changes in personnel, lifting the stock of Likely, Alec Pierce, DeVonta Smith, and Tyler Allgeier. While that could happen and rocket Dan’s team into elite status, his squad could get stuck in the middle if those players don’t see a serious spike in their production.
Team #5 (Tipp Major)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Kyler Murray | Vikings | 5.5 | |||
| RB | Jonathan Taylor | Colts | 2.8 | |||
| RB | Christian McCaffrey | 49ers | 3.5 | |||
| WR | Puka Nacua | Rams | 1.5 | |||
| WR | Emeka Egbuka | Buccaneers | 4.8 | |||
| WR | Luther Burden III | Bears | 6.8 | |||
| TE | Dallas Goedert | Eagles | 11.5 | |||
| Flex | Jadarian Price | Rookie | 7.5 | |||
| Flex | KC Concepcion | Rookie | 8.8 | |||
| SF | Matthew Stafford | Rams | 9.5 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| WR | Jayden Higgins | Texans | 10.8 | |||
| QB | Anthony Richardson Sr. | Colts | 12.8 | |||
| RB | Kimani Vidal | Chargers | 13.5 | |||
| RB | Adam Randall | Rookie | 14.8 | |||
| WR | Troy Franklin | Broncos | 15.5 | |||
| WR | Jerry Jeudy | Browns | 16.8 | |||
| RB | Rachaad White | Commanders | 17.5 | |||
| TE | Juwan Johnson | Saints | 18.8 | |||
| RB | Tank Bigsby | Eagles | 19.5 | |||
| WR | Ryan Flournoy | Cowboys | 20.8 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 3 | 3 | Win Now… but Won’t | ||||
Best Picks: Emeka Egbuka at 44th overall could prove a bargain now that Mike Evans has left Tampa.
Egbuka’s dip in targets last year coincided with two things. First, Evans and Chris Godwin Jr. both returned from injury during different stages of Egbuka’s decline. Second, the rookie dealt with a nagging injury that reportedly hindered his production after mid-season. However, the Ohio State product is now healthy and faces less competition, making him a safe WR2.
Adam Randall was another fine value pick in the 14th round, as he is a former receiver with the size to be a power back in the NFL. If some team can get Randall to play with more leverage and help him improve his lateral movement, he has the skillset to be an every-down back despite his lack of pedigree.
Worst Picks: Tipp’s quarterback situation could be a problem quickly.
His QB1 is currently Kyler Murray, a player who was signed to “compete” for the starting job after Arizona happily released him without a clear replacement in place. His QB2 is the aging Matthew Stafford, who had a back injury last offseason and was rumored to be considering retirement early this offseason.
To make matters worse, Tipp’s only backup quarterback is Anthony Richardson. Reports indicate that the only team that was interested in giving Richardson a starting shot this year (Minnesota) is no longer interested after adding Murray.
Predicting Team Outcome: Tipp’s roster could age into a problem quickly. As we noted above, his quarterbacks are anything but safe. Worse, Christian McCaffrey showed signs of aging last year and turns 30 this summer. Plus, Jonathan Taylor’s playing style and usage suggest he may be nearing the end of his peak.
When you consider just how close to the end several of Tipp’s starters are, it is increasingly concerning that he relies on Luther Burden III, Jadarian Price, and KC Concepcion as starters. While two of those players have elite upside (Burden and Concepcion), each of them has noteworthy flaws and limitations that make them significant risks with this kind of build.
In other words, Tipp’s team could be elite if everything goes right. However, if the clock strikes on any of the problems we noted (Stafford and CMC’s age, Burden’s immaturity, Concepcion’s drops, injuries, etc.), then this roster is ill-equipped to adapt and still compete.
Team #6 (Matt Donnelly)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Baker Mayfield | Buccaneers | 4.7 | |||
| RB | Bijan Robinson | Falcons | 1.6 | |||
| RB | Javonte Williams | Cowboys | 7.6 | |||
| WR | Drake London | Falcons | 2.7 | |||
| WR | Garrett Wilson | Jets | 3.6 | |||
| WR | A.J. Brown | Eagles | 5.6 | |||
| TE | Kyle Pitts | Falcons | 8.7 | |||
| Flex | Jordan Addison | Vikings | 9.6 | |||
| Flex | Travis Hunter | Jaguars | 10.7 | |||
| SF | C.J. Stroud | Texans | 6.7 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| WR | Mike Evans | Buccaneers | 11.6 | |||
| RB | Zach Charbonnet | Seahawks | 12.7 | |||
| WR | Kayshon Boutte | Patriots | 13.6 | |||
| WR | Chris Brazzell II | Rookie | 14.7 | |||
| WR | Tre' Harris | Chargers | 15.6 | |||
| RB | James Conner | Cardinals | 16.7 | |||
| QB | Tua Tagovailoa | Dolphins | 17.6 | |||
| QB | Derek Carr | Free Agent | 18.7 | |||
| TE | Mark Andrews | Ravens | 19.6 | |||
| RB | Isiah Pacheco | Ravens | 20.7 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 1 | 2 | Win Now | ||||
Best Picks: Bijan Robinson at sixth overall was a fine value, even if running back is typically the position you wait on in dynasty. However, taking Bijan that early in a startup means you must build a roster capable of winning now, and in order to utilize Robinson’s elite window… Luckily, Matt did just that.
You can squabble over the value of taking older or capped players like A.J. Brown, Javonte Williams, and Baker Mayfield all you want, but those players fit Matt’s decision to win now. With those vets, he solidified his running back and wide receiver positions with established veterans who can help him win immediately.
While many of Matt’s picks were perfect for his team (not necessarily others), Travis Hunter was an intriguing pivot with his 10th-round pick. Hunter could have zero fantasy value in non-IDP leagues for the rest of his career… or Brian Thomas Jr. could be traded next offseason and Hunter’s elite ceiling could be realized quickly. That possibility makes him a worthy risk.
Worst Picks: As many accolades as Matt should receive for recognizing the structure of his team early and committing to it, you would like to see him get better quarterbacks in a Superflex dynasty draft. Mayfield is coming off his worst season as a Buccaneer, while C.J. Stroud has put together two disappointing years after his Rookie of the Year performance.
While there is reason for optimism that Mayfield and Stroud will both rebound if they get better blocking and play-calling, trusting an otherwise trim-and-fit roster with those passers limits this team’s upside against streaking or stacked squads.
Matt would have been better served by taking Lawrence in the third over Garrett Wilson, then taking Egbuka in the fourth.
Predicting Team Outcome: Matt should contend immediately and for several years.
The age of this roster somewhat caps his long-term potential, as does the relatively low fantasy ceiling of two quarterbacks who don’t run and have struggled recently. However, every starting position on this roster should contribute and be reliable for at least two more years. If you plug Evans in for Hunter, there are no glaring risks/holes in Matt’s starting lineup.
Team #7 (Brad Camara)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Patrick Mahomes | Chiefs | 2.6 | |||
| RB | Chase Brown | Bengals | 4.6 | |||
| RB | Travis Etienne Jr. | Saints | 7.7 | |||
| WR | Jaxon Smith-Njigba | Seahawks | 1.7 | |||
| WR | Jameson Williams | Lions | 6.6 | |||
| WR | DK Metcalf | Steelers | 8.6 | |||
| TE | Tyler Warren | Colts | 5.7 | |||
| Flex | Michael Pittman Jr. | Colts | 9.7 | |||
| Flex | Kyle Monangai | Bears | 10.6 | |||
| SF | Trevor Lawrence | Jaguars | 3.7 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| WR | Khalil Shakir | Bills | 11.7 | |||
| RB | Rhamondre Stevenson | Patriots | 12.6 | |||
| RB | Kaytron Allen | Rookie | 13.7 | |||
| WR | Stefon Diggs | Free Agent | 14.6 | |||
| TE | Eli Stowers | Rookie | 15.7 | |||
| RB | Dylan Mitchell | Browns | 16.6 | |||
| WR | Antonio Williams | Rookie | 17.7 | |||
| QB | Justin Fields | Jets | 18.6 | |||
| QB | Jalen Milroe | Seahawks | 19.7 | |||
| TE | Jake Tonges | 49ers | 20.6 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 3 | 4 | Balanced | ||||
Best Picks: Patrick Mahomes has been a top-10 pick in Superflex dynasty startups for nearly a decade, but that trend has ended in 2026. In this mock, Mahomes fell to 18th overall, a result consistent with every other startup and mock I’ve done this spring. Whether it is his injury, age, or lack of elite production over the past three years, the needle is pointing down on Mahomes.
However, this dip is the kind that smart dynasty managers buy. While Mahomes has disappointed since his MVP-caliber seasons and is coming off a serious injury, he will be 31 this entire season, and his game is the type that ages well. Also, while his fantasy ceiling is lower, his floor remains that of a low-end QB1 who should age better and more reliably than most.
Along with getting Mahomes at a good discount, Brad made a worthwhile gamble on Eli Stowers in the 15th round. The Vanderbilt tight end is relatively new to the position but displayed elite athleticism at the Combine. That athleticism shows up on his tape, where he regularly finds creases in the zone and burns linebackers with his speed.
Worst Picks: Michael Pittman Jr. going in the ninth round was a bit of a reach when he was a Colt, which he was at the time of this mock, but it’s worse now that he’s in Pittsburgh. The USC alum is a strong possession receiver, but this Steelers offense has no starting QB, an established WR1 across from Pittman, and a scheme that should skew run-heavy again.
Pittman was not Brad’s only miss in the Flex. While Pittman and Kyle Monangai are “safe” but low ceiling Flex starters, Brad doesn’t balance that “safety” out with upside on his bench. Instead, he added more low ceiling backups like Stefon Diggs, Rhamondre Stevenson, Khalil Shakir, and Kaytron Allen. There is little boom or excitement in his Flex or on the bench.
Predicting Team Outcome: Brad took a risk by drafting an elite receiver (Jaxon Smith-Njigba) with his first pick, but that risk paid off when both Mahomes and Trevor Lawrence fell to his next two picks. The presence of Tyler Warren at tight end and a capable running back room solidifies this team as a balanced threat in 2026.
However, Brad’s problems at Flex and the risk of unleashing Jameson Williams as his WR2 mean this team’s title window may not open until he drafts a couple of new starters in the 2027 rookie draft. Luckily, Brad’s core is good enough and young enough to thrive even if he needs to wait a year or two to really compete.
Team #8 (Andrew Ball)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Jalen Hurts | Eagles | 2.5 | |||
| RB | Kyren Williams | Rams | 6.5 | |||
| RB | Jaylen Warren | Steelers | 9.8 | |||
| WR | Justin Jefferson | Vikings | 1.8 | |||
| WR | Rashee Rice | Chiefs | 4.5 | |||
| WR | Tee Higgins | Bengals | 5.8 | |||
| TE | Sam LaPorta | Lions | 8.5 | |||
| Flex | Michael Wilson | Cardinals | 7.8 | |||
| Flex | Chuba Hubbard | Panthers | 11.8 | |||
| SF | Jaxson Dart | Giants | 3.8 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| QB | Daniel Jones | Colts | 10.5 | |||
| WR | Parker Washington | Jaguars | 12.5 | |||
| RB | Kenneth Gainwell | Steelers | 13.8 | |||
| WR | Jalen McMillan | Buccaneers | 14.5 | |||
| RB | Le'Veon Moss | Rookie | 15.8 | |||
| TE | Terrance Ferguson | Rams | 16.5 | |||
| RB | Jordan Mason | Vikings | 17.8 | |||
| TE | Gunnar Helm | Titans | 18.5 | |||
| QB | Taylen Green | Rookie | 19.8 | |||
| WR | Brenen Thompson | Rookie | 20.5 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 3 | 3 | Win Now | ||||
Best Picks: Getting Dart at 32nd overall was a fantastic value for the Superflex format, especially considering his ADP is currently 24th overall. While there is considerable risk with Dart’s injury history and inconsistent passing, he flashed elite fantasy upside as a rookie even without Malik Nabers or a reliable WR1.
Andrew got Dart at a full round discount.
Sam LaPorta was also a fine choice in the eighth round. Although his back injury is a red flag, new Lions Offensive Coordinator Drew Petzing should be a massive boost to LaPorta’s fantasy profile. Petzing engineered the most TE targets in the NFL last year, the third most in 2024, and he tied for the most in 2023. This man loves to target the tight end position.
Worst Picks: Andrew did not have a single glaring mistake in this draft plan, even if some of his choices were not always in line with ADP or perceived value. However, the running back position overall is a weakness for him, even if his draft plan was sound.
Deploying Jaylen Warren and Chuba Hubbard as your RB2 and RB3 is problematic, even if Hubbard unexpectedly returns to the 2024 efficiency he showed for the first and last time in his career. Remember, both Warren and Hubbard play for teams that value running back timeshares, and both have teammates who threaten to steal a significant number of touches.
The best-case scenario for Andrew’s backfield is that both Warren and Hubbard see 60% of their teams’ touches and deliver high-end RB3 production, in line with their career averages. The worst case is that Warren loses significant snaps to Rico Dowdle, while Brooks becomes the lead back he was drafted to be in Carolina by mid-season.
Predicting Team Outcome: Andrew drafted a Superflex team like you are supposed to, hitting on wide receiver early while securing the three capable quarterbacks that are necessary in Superflex. His quarterback room, receiver lineup, and LaPorta give him youth and talent at the three most important positions in fantasy.
With that said, Andrew has likely positioned himself to compete in 2026, but he will not be a true contender until he drafts or trades for at least one more capable RB/Flex.
Team #9 (Jamie Calandro)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Lamar Jackson | Ravens | 1.9 | |||
| RB | Ashton Jeanty | Raiders | 2.4 | |||
| RB | Saquon Barkley | Eagles | 5.9 | |||
| WR | Tetairoa McMillan | Panthers | 3.9 | |||
| WR | Zay Flowers | Ravens | 6.4 | |||
| WR | Xavier Worthy | Chiefs | 8.4 | |||
| TE | Tucker Kraft | Packers | 7.9 | |||
| Flex | Quentin Johnston | Chargers | 10.4 | |||
| Flex | Rico Dowdle | Steelers | 11.9 | |||
| SF | Jordan Love | Packers | 4.4 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| QB | J.J. McCarthy | Vikings | 9.9 | |||
| Rb | Jacory Croskey-Merritt | Commanders | 12.4 | |||
| WR | Pat Bryant | Broncos | 13.9 | |||
| WR | Romeo Doubs | Patriots | 14.4 | |||
| TE | Hunter Henry | Patriots | 15.9 | |||
| WR | Elic Ayomanor | Titans | 16.4 | |||
| RB | Aaron Jones | Vikings | 17.9 | |||
| WR | Keon Coleman | Bills | 18.4 | |||
| RB | Kendre Miller | Saints | 19.9 | |||
| QB | Quinn Ewers | Dolphins | 20.4 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 0 | 6 | Win Now | ||||
Best Picks: Although Saquon Barkley may be on the downside of his career, getting him with the 57th overall pick is still strong value.
The record-setting back was bound to decline after his heavy usage in 2024, but much of his struggles last year were due to poor play design. That should hopefully be solved with a new play caller, making Barkley a good win-now pick here. While he’s unlikely to replicate his 2024 season, Barkley’s burst on film and receiving ability suggest he can still be a low-end RB1.
Jordan Love was also a solid value with the 40th overall pick.
While Green Bay historically likes to lean on the run, which has limited Love’s fantasy upside in the past, Josh Jacobs began to show signs of age last year, and Love took advantage. In four full games with Jacobs out or playing injured, Love was on pace to finish as QB2 overall with 21.7 fantasy points per game.
That rate could become Love’s norm this year, given Jacobs’ injury history and age (28).
Worst Picks: While he is still young and physically gifted, the train seems to already be leaving the station on J.J. McCarthy, making him a reach at 105th overall… even in a Superflex league.
It is worth noting that this mock was conducted before Murray signed with Minnesota. However, the buzz for months has suggested the Vikings were looking to bring in a quarterback to compete with McCarthy after the Michigan alum put together some of the worst tape in recent memory. Murray is arguably the worst-case scenario for McCarthy truthers, though.
Xavier Worthy was also a bit of a reach/risk at 88th overall, given that his startup ADP is in the 12th round and the Chiefs are reportedly looking for receiving help this offseason. While Worthy showed flashes as a rookie and could rebound, reports that Kansas City could draft a receiver in the first round of the NFL Draft, or sign Tyreek Hill, are troubling.
Predicting Team Outcome: The primary concerns on this roster are at WR3 (Worthy) and Flex (Dowdle and Quentin Johnston). However, Jamie’s starters at quarterback, running back, and tight end are all borderline elite. If Zay Flowers and Tetairoa McMillan receive a spike in targets this year, then Jamie has a real shot to contend in 2026.
However, like most teams in this mock, Jamie’s team lacks depth. That could become a problem if Lamar Jackson continues to get hurt, if Barkley really has hit his wall, or if Worthy really does lose his job to a new addition.
Team #10 (Jorden Hill)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Caleb Williams | Bears | 2.3 | |||
| RB | Jahmyr Gibbs | Lions | 1.10 | |||
| RB | Jonah Coleman | Rookie | 8.3 | |||
| WR | George Pickens | Cowboys | 3.10 | |||
| WR | Brian Thomas Jr. | Jaguars | 5.10 | |||
| WR | Makai Lemon | Rookie | 6.3 | |||
| TE | Dalton Kincaid | Bills | 11.10 | |||
| Flex | DJ Moore | Bills | 12.3 | |||
| Flex | Wan'Dale Robinson | Titans | 10.3 | |||
| SF | Bo Nix | Broncos | 4.3 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| QB | Bryce Young | Panthers | 7.10 | |||
| RB | Blake Corum | Rams | 9.10 | |||
| WR | Jayden Reed | Packers | 13.10 | |||
| RB | Braelon Allen | Jets | 14.3 | |||
| TE | Theo Johnson | Giants | 15.10 | |||
| WR | Tory Horton | Seahawks | 16.3 | |||
| RB | Sean Tucker | Buccaneers | 17.10 | |||
| TE | T.J. Hockenson | Vikings | 18.3 | |||
| QB | Will Howard | Steelers | 19.10 | |||
| WR | Adonai Mitchell | Jets | 20.3 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 2 | 2 | Balanced | ||||
Best Picks: While 13th overall is exactly where Caleb Williams’ ADP is for Superflex startups, it is still a strong value when you consider what we have already seen and what he still has left to give.
Williams was seventh amongst quarterbacks in rushing yards and eighth in fantasy ppg last year. Better yet, he did all that with multiple injuries in his receiving corps and raw mechanics that can still be improved upon. That all suggests that 13th overall is Williams’ fantasy floor, but not his ceiling if Ben Johnson can continue to develop the supremely talented Heisman winner.
In addition to Williams, D.J. Moore proved to be a fantastic value in the 12th round of this mock. However, it is worth noting that this mock was conducted before Moore was traded to Buffalo, which explains why he was drafted three full rounds behind his current ADP.
Worst Picks: Jonah Coleman at 87th overall is a significant reach, even for those who believe in the Husky more than almost every NFL Draft analyst.
For context, consider that most NFL Draft analysts (including Yours Truly) consider Coleman a third-round prospect with limited receiving ability in a weak running back class. Nothing about his film suggests he has more upside than Tuten, or is safer than LaPorta or Kyle Pitts Sr., all of whom were drafted after Coleman in this mock
Predicting Team Outcome: Jorden is set at quarterback, with Caleb Williams offering elite potential while Bo Nix and Bryce Young offer relatively safe floors. He also has an elite lead back in Jahmyr Gibbs, along with a talented receiving corps that balances upside (George Pickens, Makai Lemon, and Brian Thomas Jr.) with stability (Moore, Wan’Dale Robinson).
The biggest holes on this roster are at RB2 and TE, where Jordan’s selection of Coleman over Pitts and Swift resulted in two roster holes instead of one. Had Jordan taken Tuten/Swift as his RB2 and drafted George Kittle or Jake Ferguson in the 13th round, he would have improved his upside and added elite depth at the two positions he is weakest.
Kittle should not fall to the 14th round, injured or not.
Team #11 (Nicho Roessler)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Brock Purdy | 49ers | 4.2 | |||
| RB | Bucky Irving | Buccaneers | 3.11 | |||
| RB | Cam Skattebo | Giants | 6.2 | |||
| WR | Amon-Ra St. Brown | Lions | 1.11 | |||
| WR | Malik Nabers | Giants | 2.2 | |||
| WR | Marvin Harrison Jr. | Cardinals | 5.11 | |||
| TE | Harold Fannin Jr. | Browns | 7.11 | |||
| Flex | Derrick Henry | Ravens | 8.2 | |||
| Flex | Courtland Sutton | Broncos | 9.11 | |||
| SF | Michael Penix | Falcons | 10.2 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| WR | Jauan Jennings | Free Agent | 11.11 | |||
| WR | Elijah Sarratt | Rookie | 12.2 | |||
| TE | Jake Ferguson | Cowboys | 13.11 | |||
| RB | J.K. Dobbins | Broncos | 14.2 | |||
| WR | Germie Bernard | Rookie | 15.11 | |||
| RB | Kaleb Johnson | Steelers | 16.2 | |||
| RB | Ollie Gordon II | Dolphins | 17.11 | |||
| WR | Ja'Kobi Lane | Rookie | 18.2 | |||
| RB | Joe Mixon | Free Agent | 19.11 | |||
| WR | Tez Johnson | Buccaneers | 20.2 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 3 | 5 | Balanced | ||||
Best Picks: Harold Fannin Jr. is a strong value at 83rd overall, even if this is not a TE Premium format.
While there are concerns about the Browns turning away from a tight end-centric offense after Kevin Stefanski’s firing, the exit of David Njoku should solidify Fannin’s role as TE1 in Cleveland. Plus, new Head Coach Todd Monken’s offense actually targeted the tight end position on 29% of their throws, which was top ten in the NFL.
Germie Bernard also offers strong value at 179th overall. Bernard is likely a Day 2 pick in this year’s NFL Draft, which is draft capital that usually leads to a spike in fantasy manager interest. Given that some liken Bernard to a poor man’s Deebo Samuel, it is safe to say his stock will only climb from where Nicho drafted him.
Worst Picks: Nicho practically doomed his team to a mediocre start just by waiting at quarterback.
All reports are that Michael Penix Jr.’s injury could linger into the season, if not longer. Worse, all reports are that the team signed Tua Tagovailoa to “compete” with Penix for the starting job, even if the Washington alum is healthy and ready for camp. That is not news you want to hear when Penix is your starting QB2, and you have no other backup at the position.
The choice of Cam Skattebo at 62nd overall was also a risky one, as the team has reportedly shown interest in adding a “significant” running back this offseason. At the time of this mock, reports of New York’s interest in Jeremiyah Love were already prevalent, so that risk makes Skattebo an incredibly risky pick, even if it does carry upside.
Predicting Team Outcome: This team is in trouble at quarterback… which isn’t always a bad thing.
One of the biggest CHEAT CODES in dynasty Superflex is to draft an elite roster everywhere… but leave your quarterback positions empty. If you follow that strategy, you can often field a very good team but still secure the 1.01 pick in your next rookie draft because your team consistently rolls out a zero-burger at QB, keeping your max points and record low.
If you were to utilize this Zero Quarterback strategy, you could hypothetically build an elite roster at every other position and then draft one or two elite quarterback prospects in the “historic” 2027 rookie class.
Unfortunately, Nicho stopped short of the Zero QB theory when he drafted Brock Purdy. That pick, combined with Amon-Ra St. Brown, Nabers, Fannin, and Derrick Henry, should keep Nicho from securing one of the first few picks in rookie drafts. As a result, his QB2 spot could be a problem for several years and keep him from contending before Henry retires.
Team #12 (Brandon Murchinson)
| Pos. | Player | Team | Pick # | |||
| QB | Joe Burrow | Bengals | 2.1 | |||
| RB | Quinshon Judkins | Browns | 5.12 | |||
| RB | Kenneth Walker III | Chiefs | 6.1 | |||
| WR | CeeDee Lamb | Cowboys | 1.12 | |||
| WR | Chris Olave | Saints | 3.12 | |||
| WR | Ricky Pearsall | 49ers | 7.12 | |||
| TE | Brenton Strange | Jaguars | 11.12 | |||
| Flex | Jakobi Meyers | Jaguars | 9.12 | |||
| Flex | Trey Benson | Cardinals | 10.1 | |||
| SF | Dak Prescott | Cowboys | 4.1 | |||
| Bench | ||||||
| QB | Sam Darnold | Seahawks | 8.1 | |||
| WR | Chris Bell | Rookie | 12.1 | |||
| WR | Chris Godwin Jr. | Buccaneers | 13.12 | |||
| TE | George Kittle | 49ers | 14.1 | |||
| WR | Skyler Bell | Rookie | 15.12 | |||
| WR | Chimere Dike | Titans | 16.1 | |||
| RB | Brian Robinson Jr. | 49ers | 17.12 | |||
| RB | Keaton Mitchell | Ravens | 18.1 | |||
| TE | David Njoku | Free Agent | 19.12 | |||
| RB | J'Mari Taylor | Rookie | 20.1 | |||
| Rookies | Second Year | Strategy | ||||
| 3 | 2 | Win Now | ||||
Best Picks: Getting Chris Olave with the 36th overall pick is good value, given his current ADP in startups is 30th.
While injuries remain a concern, Olave is still relatively young and is coming off the best season of his career with the best quarterback he’s played with in his career. Remember that Olave finished sixth in targets, eighth in receiving yards, and eighth in receiving touchdowns last year.
With Shough, Olave’s pace was even better. Shough had the former Buckeye on pace for the fifth-most targets, fifth-most receiving yards, and second-most receiving touchdowns in the NFL.
Along with Olave, Brandon got a screaming deal on Kittle in the 14th round. While the former All-Pro is dealing with an Achilles injury that could change the course of his career, Kittle’s importance to the 49ers as a blocker, short-area weapon, and leader means he should have at least two more years of fantasy relevance in a tight end-friendly offense.
Finally, Brandon was wise to secure Chris Bell in the 12th round, even if he did reach a bit above Bell’s current ADP (15th round). Bell has the size, speed, and contested catch skills to grow into a WR1 if he can get healthy and land with the right team. Rumors are that the 49ers are very interested in Bell, which could be his ideal long-term fit.
Worst Picks: Taking Ricky Pearsall at 84th overall was a head-scratching pick when you consider Brandon had a need at tight end and both Pitts and LaPorta were available. Both tight ends carry more positional value, upside, and safety than the unproven Pearsall. Plus, tight end wound up being a significant weakness for Brandon, who is starting Brenton Strange.
When you break down the math of this mock, it is clear why Brandon felt he had to fill his WR room with Pearsall, but receiver is the deepest position in fantasy. Had he taken Pitts or LaPorta over Pearsall, Brandon would have solidified his weakest position while retaining the ability to load up on receivers with later picks.
Predicting Team Outcome: Brandon is set at quarterback for the near future with two veteran passers who could both finish top-10 at their position (Joe Burrow and Dak Prescott). He also drafted two high upside options at running back, with Kenneth Walker III being a particularly strong pick since he subsequently became a Chief.
However, the selections of Pearsall and Trey Benson have aged poorly since free agency. Plus, Strange makes tight end a weakness and means Brandon needs Kittle to return quickly. While Kittle may solve the TE problem, there is no answer on the bench if Pearsall, Benson, or Quinshon Judkins struggle this year.
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