10 Training Camp Developments Fantasy Managers Need to Know Before Draft Day
RedZoneHQ Staff · Sep 1, 2026
Top 10 training camp developments that you need to know before draft day. Learn about sleepers, player values, depth charts, and draft day targets.
Tracking training camp developments can give fantasy managers an edge over the opponents. Focusing on injuries is important, but capitalising on changing roles, crowded backfields and late-round opportunities could have a bigger impact on your roster.
Here are 10 developments worth watching before your draft.
1. Mike Washington Jr. Gains Value Behind Ashton Jeanty
Description: Mike Washington Junior in the Arkansas Razorbacks jersey before being drafted to Las Vegas Raiders
We still have no confirmed timetable for Ashton Jeanty’s return. This uncertainty, created after his injury, has pushed Mike Washington up on the fantasy radars. The rookie is explosive, and the Raiders have talked positively about their running back. Washington is a very appealing handcuff for Jeanty managers.
2. Jonah Coleman Possibly Earns More Work in Denver
Description: Jonah Coleman in training camp for Denver Broncos
After J.K. Dobbins dealt with another training camp injury, Denver’s backfield deserves attention. R.J. Harvey brings the receiving ability, while Jonah Coleman has impressed as a runner. Three backs competing for touches could create uncertainty, but Coleman is an interesting late-round fantasy football sleeper.
3. Malachi Fields Offers Big Play Upside
Description: Malachi Fields practicing his runs during a training session
Malachi Fields is expected to compete for the Giants’ No. 2 receiver role. His downfield ability makes him a good option in best ball formats. However, consistency in weekly volume could be difficult behind Malik Nabers and Wan’Dale Robinson. Fields’ big play profile can pay off at a cheap draft cost.
4. Rhamondre Stevenson Remains a Useful Middle Round Option
Description: Rhamondre Stevenson scores touchdown in Patriots' Super Bowl LX loss
Henderson’s possible Week 1 return makes the Patriots' backfield worth monitoring. Rhamondre Stevenson is a safer alternative for fantasy managers in the middle rounds due to his receiving ability and an established role. Henderson’s uncertain availability, however, makes Stevenson’s workload even more valuable.
5. MarShawn Lloyd Still A Key Handcuff
Description: MarShawn Lloyd during a game for Green Bay Packers
The speculation around Josh Jacobs’ suspension was pushed back, so managers shouldn’t draft Lloyd based on that rumor alone. Still, Lloyd continues to be an explosive backup with a significant contingent value. Lloyd is worth keeping on your handcuff lists.
6. Jeremiyah Love Is Trending Toward A Return
Description: Arizona Cardinals’ running back Jeremiyah Love posing for fans
Love’s exact return date remains unclear, yet he is trending in the right direction. This uncertainty makes him a good buying option. If his price stays reasonable, Love offers considerable upside once his workload eventually increases.
7. Tyler Allgeier Could Have Early Season Value
Description: Tyler Allgeier after a match for Atlanta Falcons against Buffalo Bills (Oct. 13, 2025)
James Conner’s Week 1 availability is still uncertain. That keeps Tyler Allgeier relevant as a late-round pick. Conner managers should consider Allgeier as insurance.
8. Miami’s Receiver Competition Increases
Description: Caleb Douglas during the training session at Miami Dolphins
Tutu Atwell’s move back to the Rams has opened an opportunity in Miami’s receiver group. Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell are both worth monitoring. Neither player needs to be drafted early, but both fit the late-round flyer category.
9. Luther Burden Is Back For Chicago
Description: Luther Burden catches a ball during a training session at Missouri Tigers (Sep. 7, 2024)
Luther Burden’s return makes the Bears offense more interesting. Caleb Williams has impressive downfield passing ability, and Burden has the skills to develop into a significant contributor. If he sits at his current draft price, he could be a valuable mid-round upside pick.
10. Alec Pierce Is Back to Practice
Description: Alec Pierce making his entrance for a game for Colts
Alec Pierce is still inexpensive and brings big play potential. His return is an important development for Indianapolis. Josh Downs is also worth monitoring after another back issue. Pierce could offer useful value if he returns and carries his training camp momentum into the regular season.
What These Developments Mean for Draft Day
The latest fantasy football training camp news is creating value at several positions. With draft day approaching, it is worth tracking these situations more closely. A late change in workload or depth chart position can quickly turn a late-round pick into one of the best values on your roster.
