Fantasy Football Draft Risers: Preseason Performances Boost ADP
The article highlights players whose fantasy football draft stock has climbed during the 2026 preseason, driven by injuries, standout performances, or role changes. A key example is San Francisco 49ers rookie receiver De'Zhaun Stribling, whose average draft position has risen by 21.5 spots after strong preseason outings and the loss of Ricky Pearsall. The piece notes that Stribling is now being considered as a weekly starter in many leagues.
Stribling's draft stock climbed 21.5 spots after Pearsall's season-ending knee injury opened a clear path to targets. His preseason production—11 receptions on 13 targets for 109 yards across two games—combined with quarterback Brock Purdy's public endorsement has pushed him into weekly-starter consideration. He now typically comes off boards by Round 8 as a high-end WR4, with some analysts willing to take him as early as Round 5.
Washington Jr. saw a sharper rise of 35.2 ADP spots following Jeanty's ankle sprain. The Arkansas product posted 1,296 scrimmage yards and nine touchdowns on 195 touches last season, then added 119 rushing yards on 15 preseason carries. With little proven depth behind him in Las Vegas, his draft range has widened considerably, spanning anywhere from Round 6 to Round 10 depending on league confidence in Jeanty's recovery timeline.
This story could significantly shape fantasy football draft strategies in the coming weeks, as managers must weigh preseason flashes against uncertain injury timelines. Those who already drafted may face roster instability, while late drafters could gain an edge by targeting these risers at reasonable prices. The coverage may also influence casual fans' perceptions of these players, potentially driving broader engagement with the 49ers and Raiders offenses as the regular season approaches.