SportsLine: Likely, Pollard Top 2026 Fantasy Sleepers
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- SportsLine's model predicted Dolphins RB De'Von Achane would outperform his RB12 ADP in 2025; he delivered 1,838 scrimmage yards, 12 touchdowns, and finished as the RB6 in CBS PPR leagues.
- Isaiah Likely, now with the Giants after following coach John Harbaugh from Baltimore, is ranked TE9 by the model despite an ADP of 97 — ahead of Sam LaPorta and George Kittle, both drafted nearly two rounds earlier.
- Tony Pollard, 29, is flagged as a sleeper at RB27 (ADP around pick 75) after clearing 1,000 rushing yards in four straight seasons and averaging 100 yards per game over the final five weeks of 2025.
- The model's historical track record includes calling A.J. Brown as a 2020 sleeper, Jonathan Taylor's 2021 season, Derrick Henry in 2019, Davante Adams in 2017, Daniel Jones' 2025 breakout — and correctly predicting C.J. Stroud's 2024 step back.
- The model is also high on a veteran wide receiver it ranks as a shocking top-10 option ahead of CeeDee Lamb and A.J. Brown, though the player's identity is withheld behind SportsLine's paywall.
- 2026 consensus top picks (CBS PPR ADP): Jahmyr Gibbs (1.30), Bijan Robinson (1.93), Ja'Marr Chase (4.02), Puka Nacua (5.02), Jonathan Taylor (5.25).
Why it matters: Fantasy drafters targeting 2026 get value picks from a model with a multi-year accuracy track record — Likely projected two rounds below comparable tight ends, Pollard flagged at RB27 despite four straight 1,000-yard seasons. For players who missed Achane's RB6 finish last year, the model's sleeper list offers a blueprint to grab league-winning production well below consensus draft cost.
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