As the 2026 NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers are finalizing their draft boards, and few voices carry more weight than Scott Pianowski's. With the regular season kicking off in just over a week, Pianowski—whose insights are regularly featured on Vulius—has shared his 'My Guys' list for 2026: the players he's targeting across his many drafts. These are the names he trusts to deliver, whether as early-round anchors or late-round steals.
The Foundation: Wide Receivers and Running Backs
At the top of Pianowski's board sits Amon-Ra St. Brown, the Lions' star wideout. St. Brown has been a model of consistency, averaging 117 receptions, 1,393 yards, and nearly 12 touchdowns over the past three seasons. 'The Sun God' offers a rare combination of high floor and high ceiling, making him a safe pick even in the first round. Pianowski is so confident in St. Brown that he's willing to take him over other first-round talents like Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Christian McCaffrey, citing St. Brown's reliable quarterback play and favorable schedule with multiple indoor games.
In the second round, Pianowski is high on Bengals running back Chase Brown. Brown has demonstrated versatility as both a runner and receiver, and with the Bengals' thin backfield depth, he's poised for a massive workload. 'Brown is a perfect second-round pick,' Pianowski notes, 'still in his prime entering his age-26 season.' If Brown is off the board, Pianowski pivots to Derrick Henry, the Ravens' veteran powerhouse. Despite turning 32 in January, Henry has shown no signs of decline, actually improving his yards-per-carry to 5.6 in Baltimore and scoring a staggering 34 touchdowns over two seasons. With new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle injecting fresh ideas, Henry remains a touchdown machine.
Value Picks and Breakout Candidates
For those looking for value in the middle rounds, Pianowski highlights Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey. After a promising rookie year cut short by injuries and offensive line issues, McConkey is set for a breakout with a healthier line and new OC Mike McDaniel, whose creative, motion-heavy scheme should maximize McConkey's talents. 'McConkey is a perfect fourth-round target,' Pianowski advises.
Another name to watch is Rams running back Blake Corum. While Kyren Williams remains the starter, Corum emerged as a reliable platoon partner in the final 11 games of last season, producing at a pace that projects to 179 carries, 911 yards, and 7.7 touchdowns over a full season. With the Rams expected to lean on the run in the fourth quarter behind a stout defense, Corum offers both floor and upside.
In the later rounds, Pianowski is keen on Steelers running back Jaylen Warren. Warren has carved out a solid NFL career since going undrafted, and his receiving skills (7.4 yards per target, 88.9% catch rate) make him a perfect fit for quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who loves to check down. Even with Rico Dowdle joining the backfield, Warren should see plenty of opportunities.
Quarterback and Tight End Targets
At quarterback, Pianowski is avoiding early-round options, instead targeting a quartet of signal-callers with similar profiles: Caleb Williams, Dak Prescott, Jared Goff, and Jordan Love. All four have exciting receiving corps and defenses that may force shootouts, making them ideal late-round targets in a deep QB class. 'Carnival life for the win,' Pianowski quips.
Among tight ends, Colston Loveland of the Bears is a must-have for Pianowski, who regrets not drafting him more. Loveland finished 2025 with a flourish, catching 28 passes for 378 yards and two scores in his final four games. Pianowski plans to aggressively pursue him in upcoming drafts. Similarly, Juwan Johnson of the Saints has been a consistent target, and with rookie receiver Jordyn Tyson sidelined, Johnson's role should only grow. Pianowski expects Johnson to be his most-rostered player this season.
Sleepers and Handcuffs
Finally, Pianowski highlights a few deep sleepers to stash. Vikings running back Jordan Mason, who was a sleeper last year, is worth doubling down on with Kyler Murray now under center, upgrading the offense. Mason is five years younger than Aaron Jones and was more effective last season. For handcuff value, keep an eye on Raiders' Mike Washington Jr., Chiefs' Emmitt Johnson, and Bills' Ray Davis—all one injury away from significant roles. As Pianowski notes, 'Everyone has their own preferred list of one-injury-away running backs,' and these three offer high upside if the starter goes down.
For more expert analysis and draft tools, check out the Yahoo Fantasy Ultra Playbook, which features insights from Pianowski and other top analysts like Justin Boone and Matt Harmon. Whether you're in a half-PPR or full-PPR league, the Playbook offers rankings, player profiles, and strategy guides to help you dominate your draft. As Pianowski's picks show, the key to a successful 2026 season is finding value at every turn—and trusting the players who have proven they can deliver.
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