SportsLine Model Names LaPorta, DeVonta Smith 2026 Sleepers
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- SportsLine's model simulated the 2026 NFL season 10,000 times to produce fantasy rankings, sleepers, breakouts, and busts, continuing a track record that included correctly calling De'Von Achane's 1,838 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns last year when he was drafted as the RB12.
- Sam LaPorta is flagged as a sleeper at TE with an ADP of 72 after a career-high 54.3 receiving yards in 2025; the Lions' loss of David Montgomery — who averaged 11 touchdowns per season across three Detroit years — opens more redzone work for the tight end.
- DeVonta Smith is projected as a top-15 Fantasy wideout despite an ADP outside the top 25 at his position, as Philadelphia traded A.J. Brown to New England and replaced its offensive coordinator, leaving Smith as the unquestioned WR1.
- The model draws a direct parallel to Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who won Offensive Player of the Year in 2025 after ascending to Seattle's WR1 role once DK Metcalf was traded away.
- SportsLine also pegs an unnamed veteran wide receiver as a top-10 Fantasy option ahead of CeeDee Lamb and A.J. Brown — though that pick is gated behind the outlet's subscription.
Why it matters: Late-round value wins fantasy championships, and the model tabs LaPorta (TE ADP 72) and Smith (WR outside the top 25) as underdrafted. LaPorta inherits redzone work after Detroit lost a back who scored 33 touchdowns in three seasons, while Smith steps into the WR1 role after the A.J. Brown trade — setups that mirror the model's prior hits on Achane and JSN.
