2026 NFL rookies guide: Stat leaders, fantasy picks, top QBs - ESPN

Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season will feature plenty of rookie debuts. Although No. 1 draft pick Fernando Mendoza won't make an appearance for at least a few weeks, the rest of the top-five selections should have an early impact (Jets edge rusher David Bailey, Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love, Titans receiver Carnell Tate and Giants linebacker Arvell Reese). And there are plenty of non-first-rounders who have created preseason hype, including 49ers receiver De'Zhaun Stribling, Broncos running back Jonah Coleman and Colts safety A.J. Haulcy.

Which 2026 draft picks could have huge seasons? Who might contribute on your fantasy football roster? Here's our guide to everything you need to know about the rookie class.

NFL draft analyst Jordan Reid and betting analyst Pamela Maldonado start by naming early Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year contenders (including their DraftKings odds to win). Then NFL analyst Matt Bowen picks five under-the-radar players to watch, national NFL reporter Dan Graziano gives notes on the rookie QBs, and fantasy analyst Eric Moody projects the top 10 rookie performers in fantasy. To cap it all off, we included Mike Clay's projected rookie stat leaders.

Jump to:
OROY candidates | DROY candidates
Under-the-radar | Fantasy picks
Quarterback notes | Projections

Love became the first running back drafted in the top five since Saquon Barkley in 2018 (No. 2 overall). That obviously gives him high expectations, but he could meet them as the focal point of new coach Mike LaFleur's offense in Arizona.

Love will not only contribute as a rusher but also as a pass catcher, where he can routinely take advantage of mismatches. In his lone preseason game against the Raiders, he showcased what he's capable