Change is inevitable, and in fantasy football, it can create opportunities for managers to gain an edge.
Every offseason, teams lose a sizable share of their production through free agency, trades or retirement, and those vacated touches and targets open the door for other players to take on larger roles. As a manager, identifying teams with significant holes to fill and the players who could step up to replace that production is a worthwhile exercise.
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Just last season, we saw the Dallas Cowboys add Javonte Williams in free agency to fill the void left by Rico Dowdle. Dowdle had plenty of success in the Cowboys' backfield in 2024, appearing in 16 games and ranking among the top 15 running backs in rushing attempts, rushing yards, receptions and total yards. Williams then finished 2025 with 287 touches and as the RB12 in fantasy leagues.
The Los Angeles Rams signed Davante Adams last year to serve as the team's No. 2 receiver behind Puka Nacua and inherit the target volume left by Cooper Kupp. Nacua drew a staggering 166 targets, while Adams saw 114 and finished as the WR9 in fantasy due to his touchdown production.
Those are just two examples, but several players are positioned to benefit from increased opportunities in 2026. A.J. Brown's departure gives first-round pick Makai Lemon an opportunity to emerge as the Philadelphia Eagles' No. 2 receiver and provide flex value at a favorable average draft position. Meanwhile, Keenan Allen's departure and Mike McDaniel's arrival give Ladd McConkey a great chance to rebound as the Los Angeles Chargers' No. 1 receiver and outperform his ADP.
Let's take a closer look at six others who stand out as you prepare for your fantasy drafts.
After spending four seasons sharing work with Zach Charbonnet in Seattle, Walker signed with Kansas City to lead a backfield that has lacked explosiveness. Walker averaged a career-low 11.3 fantasy PPG in 2025, but usage was a major factor. When Charbonnet was active, Walker handled only 34.8% of Seattle's running back carries in the red zone. He still produced 1,309 total yards on 252 touches before taking on a larger role in the postseason. Walker totaled 417 yards and four touchdowns across three postseason games, including 161 yards on 29 touches to win Super Bowl LX MVP.