The New Orleans Saints selected WR Bryce Lance in the fourth round of the NFL draft. What is his realistic 2026 fantasy outlook, and how might his presence impact Chris Olave, Jordan Tyson, and Devaughn Vele.
If you believe in Lance’s rookie breakout potential, then at least three things have to go right. First, he needs to beat out Vele for a starting job. Tyson—the eighth overall pick in this year’s draft —will presumably start alongside Olave. Second, QB Tyler Shough needs to take another step forward, creating a pathway for feeding three receivers. Third, Lance needs to prove he’s NFL-ready.
That last condition is key. He’s faced only one FBS team — Colorado in 2024 — when Lance mustered a 3-32-0 receiving line. He beat up on nearly everyone else that season, finishing the year with a 75-1,071-17 line. The next year, versus all non-FBS opponents, his yardage per game increased, but his receptions and touchdowns per game dropped.
Lance already has to carve out a role behind two high-upside wideouts and two capable, established tight ends. Whether or not Alvin Kamara is sent packing, Travis Etienne should see plenty of work, including near the goal line.
The market places Olave (WR13 ADP) and Tyson (WR32 ADP) well ahead of Lance (WR104 ADP). It accurately signals Lance’s uphill climb to fantasy relevance in Year 1.
This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Bryce Lance’s rookie fantasy outlook and impact on Saints’ teammates