As fantasy football leagues evolve with numerous coaching changes across the NFL, experts emphasize that understanding team schemes and coaching philosophies is essential for drafting successful fantasy teams in the 2026 season. With 10 new head coaches and 20 new offensive coordinators entering the league this year, relying solely on player statistics from previous seasons may lead to misjudgments about player roles and potential.
Changes in coaching staffs often result in shifts in player usage, making an awareness of underlying offensive systems critical for predicting breakout performers and avoiding overvalued selections. When a player’s skill set aligns well with a coach’s scheme, it can unlock significant fantasy production.
One notable example is Mike McDaniel, who joined the Los Angeles Chargers as offensive coordinator. Known for his zone-run scheme that emphasizes speed and motion, McDaniel's arrival brings renewed optimism for running back Omarion Hampton. The system mirrors one that propelled other dynamic backs, and McDaniel even brought along fullback Alec Ingold to aid the ground game, signaling a potentially high-volume, explosive rushing attack.
Similarly, the Las Vegas Raiders have installed a familiar system under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak and run-game coordinator Rick Dennison, employing outside-zone and wide-zone blocking schemes. They revamped the offensive line and added center Tyler Linderbaum to support this ground-oriented approach. Rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, recognized for his vision and ability to make sharp cuts, appears well positioned to excel within this framework—echoing the success Kubiak’s father and Dennison had with 1,000-yard rushers in the late 1990s.
The scheme-based approach also extends to pass-catching positions. Drew Petzing’s offense in Arizona, which provided tight end Trey McBride with record-breaking targets, suggests potential for tight end Sam LaPorta to experience a resurgence now that Petzing is calling plays. Understanding the play-caller’s tendencies offers a clearer perspective on which receivers may see increased opportunities.
Conversely, some players may face challenges due to coaching philosophies less conducive to their style. Travis Etienne’s situation in New Orleans highlights the risks. Under new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, known for limiting running backs' involvement in the passing game, Etienne faces competition for touches from Alvin Kamara’s continued presence and a system unlikely to enhance Etienne’s PPR (points per reception) value. Historical patterns from Moore’s previous teams suggest Etienne might struggle to meet expectations as a high-volume fantasy asset this season.
Fantasy analysts suggest that preparing for drafts with a focus on coaches and schemes—rather than solely on prior year statistics—provides a more reliable indicator of future player value. Recognizing how players fit within their team’s offensive strategy can identify high-upside targets and help avoid costly mistakes, offering a strategic advantage for fantasy managers heading into the new season.