2026 Fantasy Football Draft Targets: Cummings' Top Picks
CBS Sports analyst Heath Cummings identifies six players he's prioritizing in 2026 fantasy football drafts. Cummings highlights Zay Flowers and Sam LaPorta as standout targets worth reaching for.
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Fantasy Football's Future Stars
Heading into the 2026 fantasy football season, CBS Sports analyst Heath Cummings has identified six players he consistently targets in his draft preparation. Among his top priorities are Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers and Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, two players Cummings believes offer exceptional value at their expected draft positions.
Why Flowers Stands Out
Zay Flowers has emerged as a key weapon in the Ravens' offensive scheme, demonstrating the ability to make consistent plays on the outside. Cummings sees Flowers as an undervalued option in fantasy drafts, particularly given the wide receiver's trajectory in the NFL. The combination of his role in Baltimore's offense and relative draft cost makes Flowers an attractive target for fantasy managers looking to build depth at the position without sacrificing early-round picks.
LaPorta's Tight End Appeal
Sam LaPorta represents premium tight end talent at a potentially reasonable price point. The Lions' passing attack continues to develop around several receiving weapons, and LaPorta has established himself as a reliable option in the red zone and on crucial downs. Cummings values tight ends who combine volume opportunities with scoring upside, qualities LaPorta has demonstrated consistently.
Building Your Draft Strategy
Cummings' draft philosophy emphasizes identifying players with strong situation metrics and trend indicators. Rather than relying solely on previous season performance, successful fantasy managers examine playing time growth, target share trends, and offensive system fit. Flowers and LaPorta both exhibit positive indicators in these categories heading into 2026.
The fantasy football landscape constantly shifts based on injuries, trades, and coaching changes. Cummings' approach to scouting targets six players who appear positioned to produce at their likely draft costs, regardless of how league volatility affects other roster elements. This strategy helps fantasy managers maximize value across their entire lineup.
As draft season approaches, examining expert recommendations like Cummings' provides valuable perspective for competitive fantasy managers. Whether you're building your first dynasty roster or adjusting a long-term team, understanding which players offer the best combination of situation and opportunity can make the difference between a championship season and rebuilding year.