The 2026 NFL Draft is officially in the books, and with free agency mostly settled, fantasy football managers finally have a clearer picture of the landscape ahead. While a few lingering questions remain—like where Stefon Diggs lands, whether Brandon Aiyuk gets traded, and what's next for Jauan Jennings—the core rosters are taking shape. And as Matthew Berry would say, "Now we know."
In the aftermath of the draft, some players saw their fantasy stock soar, while others took a hit. Berry's latest "Love/Hate" column, a special post-draft edition, breaks down exactly who benefits and who struggles in the new NFL landscape. This isn't about ranking players overall—it's about identifying whose value has shifted most dramatically since the draft.
On the "Love" side, Jalen Hurts headlines the list. After the Eagles added key weapons and solidified their offensive line, Hurts looks poised for another MVP-caliber season. His dual-threat ability, combined with an improved supporting cast, makes him a top-tier QB1 in all formats. RJ Harvey also gets a big thumbs-up. The rookie running back landed in a system that perfectly suits his explosive style, and with a clear path to touches, he's a sleeper to watch in the later rounds.
Rashee Rice is another name Berry loves. Despite some off-field uncertainty, Rice's role in the Chiefs' offense appears secure, and with Tyreek Hill-like potential, he could be a league-winner if he stays on the field. Berry emphasizes that Rice's talent is undeniable, and the draft didn't bring any major threats to his target share.
On the flip side, the "Hate" list includes players whose situations took a turn for the worse. Cam Ward, for example, remains a low-end QB2 in 12-team leagues despite a slight uptick in value post-draft. Berry cautions that while Ward's stock rose, it's not enough to make him a reliable starter just yet.
Berry also notes that the draft didn't just affect rookies—veterans like Stefon Diggs and Brandon Aiyuk are still in flux, and their eventual landing spots could shake up the rankings even more. Until then, managers should focus on the players whose roles are clearly defined.
As we gear up for rookie mini-camps and the schedule release, one thing is certain: the fantasy football landscape is constantly evolving. Whether you're preparing for your draft or just scouting for sleepers, Berry's post-draft analysis is a must-read for anyone looking to gain an edge.
