Fantasy Football 2026: Isaiah Likely, Skattebo and Trade Targets

Thursday Night Football delivered major Fantasy Football performances from Isaiah Likely and Cam Skattebo, giving fantasy managers two players worth monitoring closely for the remainder of the 2026 season. Likely produced an impressive receiving performance, while Skattebo found the end zone twice in the Giants’ game. However, their recent performances raise an important question: which player can fantasy managers confidently start every week?

While both players delivered strong individual numbers, their outlooks are different. Likely appears to have strengthened his position among the league’s reliable fantasy tight ends, whereas Skattebo still faces questions about his long-term workload and consistency.

Isaiah Likely Emerges as a Must-Start Fantasy Tight End

Isaiah Likely had already shown considerable potential at tight end this season, but his production with J.J. McCarthy at quarterback had not been as consistent. Even when Likely scored a touchdown the previous week, it came with Jameis Winston under center.

Thursday night’s performance represented a significant development. Likely received 11 targets and converted them into nine receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown. The combination of volume, receiving production and scoring made him one of the biggest fantasy standouts of the game.

Brock Bowers and Trey McBride remain the two leading options at the tight end position, but Likely has now strengthened his case to be considered immediately behind them. His latest performance suggests that fantasy managers can treat him as a must-start option moving forward.

Cam Skattebo Delivers Two Touchdowns, but Workload Remains a Concern

Cam Skattebo also enjoyed a productive night, rushing for 78 yards and scoring two touchdowns. His performance provided a significant boost to fantasy managers who had him in their lineups.

However, questions remain about whether Skattebo can maintain this level of production over the rest of the season. His performance was impressive, but there are concerns about whether he can consistently handle an every-down running back workload.

The Giants’ reported interest in exploring major running back options, including Jonathan Taylor and Bijan Robinson, also raises questions about how the organization views its long-term backfield plans. Those potential moves would have represented an ambitious strategy for a team looking to strengthen its chances of competing in the NFC East.

Skattebo’s latest fantasy output could have been influenced by the matchup, weather conditions and favorable circumstances. That makes it difficult to assume that the same production will continue every week.

The Giants also face the Jacksonville Jaguars and San Francisco 49ers in two of their next three games, creating tougher tests for the running back.

J.J. McCarthy’s Late Interception Raises Concerns

J.J. McCarthy showed some positive moments during Thursday night’s game, but his decision-making on the final drive became a major concern.

The Commanders brought heavy pressure, and McCarthy responded by throwing a deep pass that could have been intercepted. He escaped punishment on that attempt, but Washington used the same defensive approach again, and his next deep throw was intercepted to seal the game.

With the Giants facing two difficult matchups in their next three weeks, McCarthy is not an attractive fantasy option at the moment. Fantasy managers should consider leaving him on the waiver wire until his performance and upcoming schedule improve.

Chig Okonkwo Receives Targets but Fails to Deliver

Chig Okonkwo received eight targets, which was an encouraging sign for fantasy managers looking for increased involvement in the passing game. However, he finished with fewer than 10 fantasy points.

Despite the opportunity, his connection with Jayden Daniels has not developed as hoped. Okonkwo could still become useful during the challenging bye-week period known as “Bye-mageddon,” when fantasy managers may need additional options. Outside those circumstances, his current fantasy value remains limited.

Rachaad White’s Rushing Numbers Need Context

Rachaad White finished with 47 rushing yards on 11 carries, but his overall total was boosted by one 18-yard run. Outside that single play, he managed just 29 yards on his other 10 attempts.

The performance highlights the importance of looking beyond total rushing yards when evaluating fantasy production. White’s overall numbers may appear reasonable, but his consistency across individual carries remains a concern.

Stefon Diggs remains the only other Commander identified in the report as a weekly starting option for fantasy managers.

Cowboys Backup Running Back Israel Abanikanda Returns

Israel Abanikanda is set to receive his first regular-season playing time since his rookie campaign with the New York Jets in 2023. His opportunity comes after Tyler Goodson was ruled out with a knee injury.

During his rookie season, Abanikanda recorded 22 carries for 70 yards and added seven receptions for 43 yards. He is now expected to serve as the backup to Javonte Williams in Dallas.

Abanikanda expressed his excitement about returning to regular-season action.

“I’m just ready to ball,” he said. “Ready to ball out with my teammates and get this done.”

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer also expressed confidence in the running back’s ability to contribute, highlighting his speed and explosiveness.

“This is a guy with explosive speed,” he said. “When you get this guy into open space, he’s a big man that can run really, really fast. And that was evident from our time with him in training camp, preseason and certainly going back to his Pitt film, but he has done a really good job and he’s ready to go.”

Ravens Name Riley Patterson Their New Kicker

The Baltimore Ravens will use Riley Patterson as their kicker for Monday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, according to special teams coordinator Anthony Levine.

Baltimore signed Patterson to its 53-man roster on Wednesday and subsequently added Harrison Mevis to the practice squad.

Patterson has converted 86.6% of his career field goal attempts, placing him eighth in NFL history among kickers with at least 100 attempts. His accuracy record provides an important point of reference as he prepares to take over the kicking responsibilities for the Ravens.

12 Fantasy Football Trade Targets to Watch

Although the NFL trade deadline has passed, fantasy football managers still have time to improve their rosters through trades. Several players could offer opportunities depending on their recent performances, workload, upcoming opponents and remaining schedules.

1. Jonah Coleman

Jonah Coleman has become a prominent trade target after establishing himself in the Denver Broncos’ backfield. He played 82% of the team’s snaps last week and has scored more than 18 fantasy points in each of his past two games.

Denver’s bye week could create an opportunity for fantasy managers to negotiate a deal. The Broncos also have the second-best remaining fantasy schedule for running backs, making Coleman an appealing option for teams preparing for the second half of the season.

2. Chase Brown

Chase Brown has disappointed many fantasy managers, averaging 11 carries per game since Week 3. Despite the Bengals scoring 26 touchdowns since the beginning of Week 2, none of those scores have come from Brown.

His recent production and difficult upcoming matchup could make his current manager more willing to trade him. However, Cincinnati has the fifth-best remaining schedule for running backs, giving Brown an opportunity to improve his fantasy value later in the season.

Fantasy managers could consider making an offer if they believe Brown can rediscover his earlier production.

3. Travis Etienne Jr.

Travis Etienne Jr. has not played since Week 3, leaving fantasy managers who drafted him to manage their backfields without his contributions.

His absence could create a trading opportunity for managers willing to take on some uncertainty. The Saints have the fourth-best remaining fantasy schedule for running backs and remain involved in their divisional race. Etienne could receive significant volume once he returns to action.

4. Ollie Gordon II

Ollie Gordon II has scored fewer than eight fantasy points in each of his past two games, potentially creating an opportunity to acquire him at a lower price.

Despite the recent decline in fantasy production, Gordon has averaged 19.5 carries over his last four games. He also has the best remaining fantasy schedule among running backs, with a favorable matchup against the Indianapolis Colts this week.

5. Luther Burden III

Luther Burden III has become an important part of the Chicago Bears’ passing attack since Caleb Williams returned in Week 6. Burden has recorded a 25% target share during that period and averaged 20.1 fantasy points per game.

The Bears also have the fourth-best remaining schedule for wide receivers, strengthening his outlook for the rest of the season.

6. Colston Loveland

Colston Loveland has also benefited from Williams’ return, leading the Bears with a 26% target share since Week 6. He has averaged 14.8 fantasy points per game during that stretch.

Chicago has the second-best remaining schedule for tight ends, giving Loveland an opportunity to remain productive. His increased involvement makes him a player worth considering in trade discussions.

7. Parker Washington

Parker Washington has delivered inconsistent fantasy performances, but his underlying involvement in the Jacksonville Jaguars’ offense remains encouraging.

He leads the team in target share, air-yard share and red-zone target share. Although Jacksonville’s ability to control games without throwing frequently can limit his opportunities, his role and the Jaguars’ best remaining fantasy schedule for wide receivers make him an interesting trade target.

8. Justin Jefferson

Justin Jefferson has struggled to deliver consistent fantasy production, but the expected return of Kirk Cousins to the Vikings’ offense could improve his outlook.

Jefferson averaged 98 receiving yards per game during his time with Cousins. Minnesota also has the fifth-best remaining schedule for wide receivers, giving fantasy managers reasons to consider acquiring him before his production potentially improves.

9. Jordan Addison

Jordan Addison has also experienced a disappointing fantasy season, but the prospect of Cousins helping stabilize Minnesota’s passing game could benefit him.

During his previous time with Cousins, Addison performed as a WR3 in fantasy football. The Vikings’ favorable remaining schedule adds to the possibility of improved production.

10. Carnell Tate

Carnell Tate leads the Titans in both target share, at 26%, and air-yard share, at 44%. His involvement gives him a meaningful role in the passing attack, although the offense could make his weekly fantasy production inconsistent.

Tate has scored at least 9.9 fantasy points in four of his past five games. Tennessee also has the seventh-best remaining schedule for wide receivers, making him a potential option for managers seeking depth.

11. Hunter Henry

Hunter Henry has recorded at least 11 fantasy points in four of his past six games, making him a useful tight end option.

He has a favorable matchup against the Detroit Lions, who have allowed the most receiving yards, touchdowns and fantasy points per game to tight ends. Henry also has the fourth-best remaining fantasy schedule at his position.

12. Dalton Kincaid

Dalton Kincaid has delivered inconsistent results this season, but his connection to a strong quarterback and offensive unit keeps him relevant in fantasy discussions.

He has the 10th-best remaining fantasy schedule among tight ends. Managers who need help at the position could consider him as a potential trade option.

Five Most-Traded Players in ESPN Fantasy Football Leagues

Fantasy managers still have time to complete trades even though the NFL’s trade deadline has passed. The fantasy trade deadline is scheduled for noon ET on Wednesday, December 2, giving managers several more weeks to reshape their rosters.

The following five players were involved in the most trades in ESPN fantasy leagues during Week 10, including accepted and rejected offers.

1. Justin Jefferson – WR, Minnesota Vikings

Justin Jefferson was the most-traded player, appearing in 54% more trades than the next closest player. Interest in Jefferson has increased alongside the possibility of Kirk Cousins helping the Vikings’ offense regain consistency.

Cousins’ familiarity with head coach Kevin O’Connell’s offensive system could help him settle back into the offense. Jefferson also produced the best season of his career in 2022, averaging 21.7 fantasy points per game with Cousins at quarterback.

Despite the high trade activity, nearly three-quarters of the offers involving Jefferson were rejected. His potential for a stronger finish makes him a player fantasy managers may still want to acquire.

2. Jonathan Taylor – RB, Indianapolis Colts

Jonathan Taylor’s fantasy value declined after he remained with Indianapolis rather than being traded before the NFL deadline.

The concerns are connected to the Colts’ offensive performance over the final seven weeks of last season. During that stretch, Taylor’s fantasy production fell from 27.4 points per game during the first 11 weeks to 12.6 points per game over the final seven.

His rushing workload actually increased during that period, but the decline in overall fantasy production remains a concern. Managers who receive an attractive trade offer could consider moving him based on expectations for the remainder of 2026.

3. Parker Washington – WR, Jacksonville Jaguars

Parker Washington’s trade activity could reflect frustration among fantasy managers dealing with his inconsistent weekly production and Jacksonville’s crowded receiving group.

However, Washington continues to lead the Jaguars in target share, air-yard share and red-zone target share. His role in the offense and Jacksonville’s favourable remaining schedule make him an appealing player to acquire.

His performance during the second half of 2025, when he ranked as the No. 12 fantasy wide receiver, also provides a reason to remain interested in his potential.

4. Ashton Jeanty – RB, Las Vegas Raiders

Ashton Jeanty’s recent decline in workload has made him a frequent subject of trade discussions. During the first seven weeks, he averaged 17.4 fantasy points per game while playing 69% of the snaps and handling 48% of the rushing share.

Over the past two weeks, those numbers have fallen to 8.7 fantasy points per game, a 50% snap rate and a 17% rushing share.

The Raiders are also preparing to introduce rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza, creating some uncertainty around the offense. However, Jeanty could be difficult to replace, particularly after backup Mike Washington Jr. struggled while filling in during the previous two games.

Fantasy managers should be cautious about accepting a low-value offer while Jeanty’s trade value is near its seasonal low point.

5. Chase Brown – RB, Cincinnati Bengals

Chase Brown has been one of the biggest fantasy disappointments among running backs this season. His recent production has contributed to Cincinnati relying more heavily on its passing attack.

Brown has averaged 1.79 yards after contact per attempt, down from 1.93 in 2024 and 2.12 in 2025. His average speed at the line of scrimmage has also declined by nearly 2 mph.

However, his previous second-half performances offer some encouragement. Brown averaged 20.4 fantasy points per game during the second halves of the 2024 and 2025 seasons, compared with 12.9 during the first halves.

That history makes him a possible trade target, provided managers can acquire him at an appropriate value.

The next five players involved in frequent trades were Derrick Henry, George Pickens, Nico Collins, Ollie Gordon II and Chris Olave.

Malik Willis Placed on Injured Reserve

The Miami Dolphins placed quarterback Malik Willis on injured reserve on November 10 because of a groin injury. He is expected to miss at least four games.

Willis had averaged 13.1 fantasy points per game, throwing for 1,396 yards, six touchdowns and six interceptions. He had also contributed 232 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.

Although Willis struggled in his previous fantasy matchup against the Detroit Lions, his overall production had been improving. He had thrown five of his six touchdown passes over the previous four games.

With Willis unavailable, Kyle McCord is expected to take over as Miami’s starting quarterback. The assignment will mark McCord’s first career NFL start, and he has yet to attempt a pass in an NFL game.

Willis had been considered a potential streaming option because of the matchup, but McCord does not carry the same fantasy appeal. Managers should avoid relying on him until he demonstrates that he can produce at the professional level.

What Willis’ Injury Means for Miami’s Fantasy Options

The quarterback change also creates uncertainty for Miami’s receiving options. Malik Washington had been a relatively safe flex option with Willis, while Caleb Douglas had shown flashes of potential.

Both receivers could be benched or dropped in leagues where roster space is limited until they demonstrate that they can produce with McCord under center.

Ollie Gordon II is the only Dolphins player identified as a reliable starting option for the time being. He has averaged 13.2 fantasy points per game since Week 3, and Miami has the second-best remaining fantasy schedule for running backs.

The Indianapolis Colts’ defense and special teams unit could also be considered a streaming option this week because of the matchup, despite struggling to produce consistent fantasy results throughout the season.

James Cook Leads Bills’ Offense Against Vikings

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook III delivered the standout fantasy performance in Monday night’s game against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite facing a challenging Minnesota defense, Cook helped lead Buffalo’s offense to victory.

Cook carried the ball 31 times for 107 yards and a touchdown, finishing with 16.7 fantasy points and ranking as the week’s RB8. His 31 rushing attempts were the second-highest total of his career in a single game.

Only Jahmyr Gibbs had rushed for more yards against Minnesota during the season.

Josh Allen Has His Lowest Fantasy Output of the Season

Josh Allen struggled to produce his usual fantasy numbers, finishing with 12.86 points. He completed his passing performance with 234 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while adding 15 rushing yards on six attempts.

Even with the disappointing performance, Allen had a favorable opportunity to bounce back against the New York Jets the following week.

Other Fantasy Takeaways From Bills vs. Vikings

• DJ Moore: Moore received five targets and caught three passes for 25 yards. Across his four full games this season, he has recorded a 26% target share and a 41% air-yard share while averaging 14.3 fantasy points per game.
• Dalton Kincaid: Kincaid caught all three of his targets for 28 yards. His next matchup against the Jets offered a potential rebound opportunity, as New York had allowed the fourth-most receiving yards to tight ends.
• Khalil Shakir: Shakir led Buffalo with four receptions for 58 yards. He remains a possible safe-floor option in deeper leagues or as an injury and bye-week replacement.
• Carson Wentz: Wentz struggled against Buffalo, completing just 8 of 25 passes for 81 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. He also lost a fumble before being replaced by Max Brosmer during Minnesota’s final drive.
• Justin Jefferson: Jefferson received 11 targets but managed only three receptions for 58 yards. He has now recorded single-digit fantasy points in four of his past six games and is averaging a career-low 56.1 receiving yards per game.
• T.J. Hockenson and Jordan Addison: Minnesota’s passing struggles also affected both players. Hockenson finished with 33 receiving yards, while Addison recorded 28. Neither currently offers a dependable fantasy option given the quarterback situation.
• Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones: Mason played 48% of Minnesota’s snaps, while Jones played 35%. Mason finished with 42 yards on eight opportunities, and Jones recorded 21 yards on six touches. Neither has reached seven fantasy points in the three games since Mason returned.

Puka Nacua Likely Headed to Injured Reserve

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua was expected to be placed on injured reserve after suffering MCL and PCL sprains.

Nacua’s absence creates a major challenge for both the Rams and fantasy managers. With Davante Adams also on injured reserve, Los Angeles has several receivers who could see increased opportunities, including Konata Mumpfield, Jordan Whittington and Tutu Atwell.

The Rams could also explore adding a wide receiver through a trade, although the supplied report noted that this remained a possibility rather than a confirmed move.

Rams’ Tight Ends and Running Backs Could Benefit

If Los Angeles does not add another receiver, its tight ends and running backs could become more involved in the passing game.

Tyler Higbee is a potential waiver-wire addition, while Terrance Ferguson could receive additional opportunities once he returns from a hamstring injury.

Running back Kyren Williams could also benefit from Nacua’s absence through increased targets. Both Williams and Blake Corum were recommended as starting options for the Rams’ next matchup against the Arizona Cardinals.

Cardinals Lose Michael Wilson for the Season

The Arizona Cardinals announced that wide receiver Michael Wilson will miss the remainder of the season because of a neck injury.

Wilson had established himself as Arizona’s leading wide receiver and a dependable weekly fantasy option. His injury leaves the Cardinals particularly thin at the position, especially after Kendrick Bourne was also placed on injured reserve and Marvin Harrison Jr. was traded.

Devin Duvernay, Simi Fehoko and Reggie Virgil remain among the receivers on the active roster. Zay Jones, James Proche II and Shedrick Jackson are on the practice squad.

Trey McBride Becomes Arizona’s Main Fantasy Option

Wilson’s absence could lead to more targets for tight end Trey McBride, who is identified as Arizona’s only must-start fantasy option.

The Cardinals have also experienced major changes elsewhere in their offense. With Jeremiyah Love on injured reserve and Jacoby Brissett traded, McBride is the only Cardinals skill-position starter from Week 1 who remains with the team and is currently playing for Arizona.

Fantasy managers looking to replace Wilson should explore options outside the Cardinals’ roster rather than assuming another receiver will immediately match his production.

Gardner Minshew’s Injury Creates More Quarterback Uncertainty

Quarterback Gardner Minshew II was feared to have suffered a torn UCL in his throwing arm, according to Ian Rapoport. If the injury is confirmed, he would miss the remainder of the season.

Such an absence would put third-round rookie Carson Beck in line to start for Arizona for the rest of the campaign. The potential quarterback change adds another layer of uncertainty for the Cardinals’ offensive players and their fantasy managers.

Fantasy Football Outlook: Which Players Should Managers Prioritize?

Thursday night’s performances from Isaiah Likely and Cam Skattebo offer two different fantasy situations. Likely’s 11 targets, nine catches, 127 receiving yards and touchdown provide encouraging evidence of a potentially sustainable role. Skattebo’s 78 rushing yards and two touchdowns were impressive, but questions about his workload and the Giants’ upcoming schedule make his outlook less certain.

Likely currently has the stronger case as an automatic weekly starter, while Skattebo remains a player worth monitoring as the Giants’ backfield situation develops.

Beyond those two performances, fantasy managers should pay attention to quarterback changes, injuries and remaining schedules. Malik Willis’ move to injured reserve, Puka Nacua’s expected absence and Michael Wilson’s season-ending injury could all affect lineup decisions in the coming weeks.

With the fantasy trade deadline still approaching, managers also have opportunities to target players whose recent production may not reflect their potential value. Evaluating workload, target share, upcoming matchups and team circumstances will be important when preparing for the remainder of the 2026 fantasy football season.