5 NFL Players Who Could Benefit From a Change of Scenery in 2026

Sometimes, a player's struggles have less to do with individual talent and more to do with the situation surrounding them. Whether it's inconsistent quarterback play, limited opportunities, or an offensive system that doesn't maximize their abilities, even talented NFL players can struggle to reach their full potential. As the 2026 season progresses, several players stand out as potential beneficiaries of a fresh start, particularly from a fantasy football perspective.

1. Brian Thomas Jr. — Jacksonville Jaguars

Brian Thomas Jr. emerged as one of the NFL's most exciting young receivers during his rookie season, but his role in Jacksonville's offense has become increasingly uncertain. Despite possessing exceptional speed and big-play ability, Thomas has struggled to maintain the target volume and opportunities that initially made him such an attractive fantasy option. A move to an offense willing to feature him as a primary downfield threat could help restore his production. With his combination of athleticism and receiving talent, Thomas could become a valuable fantasy contributor in a more favorable situation.

2. Jerry Jeudy — Cleveland Browns

Jerry Jeudy has demonstrated his ability to produce impressive receiving numbers, but Cleveland's inconsistent passing attack has frequently limited his fantasy potential. Despite his route-running ability and talent after the catch, Jeudy has struggled to establish dependable weekly production in an offense that has experienced considerable uncertainty at quarterback. A move to a more established passing attack could provide him with more consistent targets and scoring opportunities. With the right quarterback and offensive system, Jeudy could reestablish himself as a reliable fantasy starter.

3. Kyle Pitts — Atlanta Falcons

Kyle Pitts possesses the athleticism and receiving ability to be one of the NFL's most productive tight ends, but his fantasy career has been marked by inconsistent production. Despite entering the league with enormous expectations, Pitts has struggled at times to establish himself as a dependable weekly fantasy option. A move to a pass-heavy offense with an established quarterback could provide him with more consistent targets and opportunities to utilize his exceptional size and speed. With a clearly defined receiving role, Pitts could potentially develop into the elite fantasy tight end many expected him to become.

4. Michael Pittman Jr. — Pittsburgh Steelers

Michael Pittman Jr. has established himself as a capable possession receiver, but his fantasy outlook has become increasingly uncertain following his move to Pittsburgh. Although his size, physicality, and route-running ability make him a valuable NFL contributor, inconsistent passing opportunities and competition for targets can limit his weekly production. A move to an offense willing to feature him as a primary receiving option could help restore his fantasy value. With more consistent targets and an established quarterback, Pittman could once again become a dependable PPR contributor.

5. DeMario Douglas — New England Patriots

DeMario Douglas has demonstrated impressive quickness and an ability to create separation, but New England's increasingly crowded receiving corps could make it difficult for him to secure a substantial offensive role. With A.J. Brown and other receiving options competing for targets, Douglas may struggle to generate the volume necessary for dependable fantasy production. A move to a team seeking a reliable slot receiver could provide him with a clearer path to consistent opportunities. In a more prominent role, Douglas could develop into an intriguing PPR fantasy option.

Final Thoughts

A change of scenery can sometimes provide the opportunity a talented player needs to revive his career or reach another level of production. Thomas, Jeudy, Pitts, Pittman, and Douglas all possess abilities that could translate into stronger fantasy performances under different circumstances. While a trade doesn't automatically guarantee improvement, a better offensive system, more consistent quarterback play, or an expanded role can significantly alter a player's outlook. Fantasy managers should monitor potential trades and changing offensive situations, as identifying these opportunities early can provide a valuable advantage throughout the season.