The Ultimate 2026 Return Yardage Watchlist: Breaking Down Every NFL Team’s PR/KR Depth Chart

Kevin writes a team-by-team breakdown of the return specialists, hidden fantasy edges, and PR/KR names that matter most in return yardage formats heading into 2026.

As we head into June, dynasty leagues are starting to settle after rookie drafts, while waiver wires begin opening back up across the fantasy landscape. This is also the time of year where sharp managers start searching for every possible edge, and one format that continues to grow is return yardage leagues. In these settings, special teams usage can quietly create massive value swings, especially for players buried further down traditional rankings. Because of that, I wanted to go team by team and break down the projected PR/KR depth charts across the NFL, highlighting the players who could carve out meaningful return roles heading into 2026. Then at the end, I’ll dive into a few return specialists we are actively targeting in our own leagues before the market fully catches up.

2026 NFL PR/KR Depth Chart Watchlist

Before we jump into the targets, let’s work through each team’s projected return depth chart entering the summer. We are going to focus on both kick returners and punt returners, identifying the players currently projected for those roles while also highlighting situations that could shift throughout training camp and preseason. Some of these names already have established return jobs, while others are rookies, depth pieces, or explosive athletes who could gain sneaky fantasy value if they secure consistent special teams work heading into the 2026 season.

Arizona Cardinals

PR: Devin Duvernay, Xavier Weaver, Michael Wilson
KR: Devin Duvernay, Jalen Brooks, Xavier Weaver

This one appears fairly straightforward. Arizona signed Devin Duvernay this offseason, and he immediately projects as the favorite to handle both punt and kick return duties. Duvernay remains one of the league’s most accomplished return specialists, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod during his time with Baltimore. He ranked third in the NFL in total return yardage last season and has over 4,500 combined return yards in his career. While his offensive role is likely limited behind Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, and Trey McBride, return-yardage leagues could give Duvernay weekly flex value if he locks down both jobs throughout the season. Xavier Weaver and Jalen Brooks currently appear to be the primary backups if Arizona decides to rotate return duties.

Atlanta Falcons

PR: Zachariah Branch, Deven Thompkins
KR: Zachariah Branch, Tyler Goodson, Deven Thompkins

Few rookies enter the league with a clearer path to immediate return duties than Zachariah Branch. Atlanta’s return game was one of the worst units in football last season, finishing near the bottom of the league in both punt and kick return production. That’s exactly why the Falcons invested in one of the most dynamic open-field playmakers in college football. Branch led the nation in punt return average during his time at USC and has the type of elite acceleration and lateral quickness that can change field position in a single touch.

What’s even more intriguing for fantasy managers is that Branch isn’t competing for just return work. He is also pushing for snaps in the slot, where Atlanta struggled to find consistency throughout 2025. If he can carve out an offensive role alongside Drake London and Jahan Dotson while maintaining return duties, his value in return-yardage leagues could skyrocket. Deven Thompkins and Tyler Goodson provide depth behind him, but entering the summer this looks like Branch’s job to lose, making him one of the most interesting return specialists to monitor across the entire league.

Baltimore Ravens

PR: LaJohntay Wester, Adam Randall
KR: Rasheen Ali, LaJohntay Wester

The Ravens may have one of the more interesting return situations in the league entering training camp. LaJohntay Wester handled primary punt return duties as a rookie and performed well enough to put himself in the driver’s seat heading into 2026. Wester averaged 12.4 yards per punt return while adding nearly 250 kick return yards, flashing the explosiveness that made him such an intriguing late-round pick. His roster spot is also helped by the fact that he brings value as both a receiver and return specialist.

The kick return role feels less settled. Rasheen Ali currently sits atop the depth chart, but Baltimore drafted Adam Randall, a versatile athlete who could push for both offensive and special teams work this summer. Ali looked comfortable in limited action as a rookie and has the inside track today, though this feels like a battle worth monitoring throughout camp. For now, Wester appears to be the safest bet for return-yardage production, while Ali carries a bit more uncertainty as competition for touches and roster spots heats up.

Buffalo Bills

PR: Mecole Hardman Jr., Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman
KR: Ray Davis, Ty Johnson, Mecole Hardman Jr.

Buffalo’s return situation is one of the more interesting ones to monitor because there are multiple players with legitimate claims to these jobs. Ray Davis enters 2026 as the favorite on kick returns after leading the NFL with a 30.4-yard average in 2025. While that production was impressive, fantasy managers should be cautious about chasing return-only value here. Davis has carved out a role in the offense, but not one large enough to create a meaningful fantasy edge outside of return-yardage formats.

The more intriguing battle may be at punt returner. Mecole Hardman brings an extensive return résumé and remains one of the league’s most dangerous open-field players when healthy. However, he is far from guaranteed a roster spot and will need a strong summer to secure a place on the 53-man roster. Khalil Shakir also remains in the mix and could retain the role if Buffalo prefers a more stable option. For now, Davis looks like the safest bet to maintain kick return duties, while the punt return battle between Hardman and Shakir is one worth following closely throughout training camp.

Carolina Panthers

PR: Trevor Etienne, David Moore, Jimmy Horn Jr.
KR: Trevor Etienne, Chuba Hubbard, Jimmy Horn Jr.

Trevor Etienne appears to have a strong hold on Carolina’s return duties entering 2026, and that role may ultimately be what secures his roster spot. Despite limited offensive opportunities as a rookie, Etienne accumulated nearly 900 combined return yards and established himself as the Panthers’ primary special teams weapon. With Carolina likely carrying only three running backs, his value on kick and punt returns gives him a clear advantage over some of the other depth options competing for a roster spot.

From a fantasy perspective, however, Etienne feels more like a floor play than a ceiling play. Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks remain ahead of him in the backfield pecking order, making it difficult to project meaningful offensive volume without injuries. The return production is certainly useful in leagues that reward return yardage, but unless his offensive role grows significantly, Etienne’s fantasy value will likely remain tied almost exclusively to special teams usage. He’s worth monitoring in deeper return-yardage formats, but the upside appears somewhat limited compared to some of the other names on this list.

Chicago Bears

PR: Zavion Thomas, Kalif Raymond, Luther Burden III
KR: Zavion Thomas, Kalif Raymond, Josh Blackwell

Zavion Thomas is one of the more intriguing rookie returners to monitor entering training camp. The Bears drafted the explosive LSU product in the third round, and early OTA reports have already generated buzz after Thomas showcased his speed on a 50-plus-yard connection with Caleb Williams. While his path to offensive snaps may be complicated by a crowded receiver room and the complexity of Ben Johnson’s offense, his route to playing time on special teams is much clearer.

Thomas returned both punts and kickoffs throughout his college career and earned All-SEC honors as a return specialist during his final season at LSU. The Bears coaching staff has already highlighted his fearless running style, and he appears to be the early favorite to handle both return jobs. While Kalif Raymond remains a veteran option, Thomas offers significantly more upside in return-yardage leagues. If he can secure the return role while gradually earning offensive touches, he could become one of the more valuable rookie return specialists in fantasy football this season.

Cincinnati Bengals

PR: Charlie Jones, Mitch Tinsley, Ke’Shawn Williams
KR: Charlie Jones, Samaje Perine, Tahj Brooks

Charlie Jones continues to hold a firm grip on Cincinnati’s return duties and remains one of the more accomplished return specialists in the league. He has already made NFL history under the league’s new kickoff rules, becoming the first player to return two opening kickoffs for touchdowns. Over his three-year career, Jones has accumulated more than 2,200 combined return yards while contributing as both a punt and kick returner. Entering 2026, he remains the clear favorite to handle the majority of return opportunities for the Bengals.

The more interesting name to watch here is rookie running back Tahj Brooks. While Jones appears safe atop the depth chart, Brooks is already listed as one of the primary kick return backups and could carve out a larger role as the season progresses. Cincinnati has historically been willing to use running backs in the return game, and Brooks’ physical running style and contact balance could translate well to kickoff returns. He’s unlikely to challenge Jones immediately, but among the backup returners on this roster, Brooks is the player worth monitoring most closely from a fantasy perspective. If he earns return duties while simultaneously working his way into the offensive rotation, his value in return-yardage formats could rise quickly.

Cleveland Browns

PR: Gage Larvadain, Isaiah Bond, Tylan Wallace
KR: Malachi Corley, Dylan Sampson, Tylan Wallace

This is one of the most important return battles to monitor this summer. Cleveland’s special teams unit was a disaster in 2025, struggling in both the return game and coverage units. With a new special teams coordinator in place, the Browns appear committed to finding explosive playmakers who can flip field position. Early reports from OTAs indicate that Gage Larvadain and first-round rookie KC Concepcion are currently the leading candidates for punt return duties, with the coaching staff describing them as “1A and 1B” in the competition.

For fantasy managers, Concepcion is the name that stands out. Not only was he one of the most dangerous punt returners in college football, averaging 20 yards per return and producing multiple explosive plays, but he also has a legitimate chance to become one of Cleveland’s top receiving options immediately. That’s what makes him potentially a cheat code in return-yardage leagues. Most return specialists are fighting for offensive snaps, while Concepcion could realistically emerge as the Browns’ WR1 or WR2 while also handling return duties. If he wins the punt return job outright, his value in return-yardage formats could be significantly higher than the market currently realizes. The kick return battle remains more open, with Malachi Corley and Dylan Sampson currently leading the race, but Concepcion is easily the most intriguing fantasy asset in this entire return room.

Dallas Cowboys

PR: KaVontae Turpin
KR: KaVontae Turpin, Jaydon Blue

This one starts with KaVontae Turpin, who has quietly built one of the best return résumés in the NFL. A three-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s most dangerous open-field weapons, Turpin remains locked into both return duties heading into 2026. While his kick return average dipped slightly last season, he continues to provide explosive-play potential every time he touches the football. Dallas has increasingly incorporated him into the offense as well, where he posted a career-best 15.2 yards per reception in 2025.

The player fantasy managers should be watching, however, is Jaydon Blue. Blue’s speed and return ability make him a natural candidate to earn more special teams opportunities, and there is a realistic path for him to emerge as Dallas’ RB2 entering the season. The Cowboys have already shown interest in getting the ball into his hands in multiple ways, and the new kickoff rules only increase the value of explosive athletes like Blue. While Turpin remains the clear favorite for return duties today, Blue is exactly the type of player who can become a sneaky return-yardage asset if his offensive role and special teams opportunities grow simultaneously throughout the season.

Denver Broncos

PR: Marvin Mims Jr., Michael Bandy, Riley Moss
KR: Marvin Mims Jr., RJ Harvey, Tyler Badie, Kolbe Katsis

Few players bring more value to return-yardage leagues than Marvin Mims Jr. Entering his fourth NFL season, Mims has already established himself as one of the league’s premier return specialists. He is a two-time Pro Bowler, multiple-time All-Pro selection, and led the NFL in punt return yardage in 2025. Across his career, Mims has accumulated more than 2,400 combined return yards while adding offensive production as both a receiver and occasional rushing threat. Simply put, he is one of the safest return-yardage assets in fantasy football.

What makes Mims particularly valuable is that he is no longer just a return specialist. Denver continues to find ways to get him involved offensively, and even after acquiring Jaylen Waddle, Mims should maintain a meaningful role in Sean Payton’s offense. Barring injury, this is Mims’ return room. Unlike many players featured in this article, there is very little uncertainty surrounding his role, making him one of the most reliable return-yardage options in fantasy football entering the 2026 season.

Detroit Lions

PR: Greg Dortch, Kendrick Law, Tom Kennedy
KR: Greg Dortch, Tom Kennedy, Jacob Saylors

The departure of Kalif Raymond leaves a significant opening in Detroit’s return game, and the Lions appear to have found their replacement in Greg Dortch. Signed away from Arizona this offseason, Dortch brings extensive experience as both a slot receiver and return specialist. He averaged over 26 yards per kick return in 2025 while also posting a career-best 11.6 yards per punt return. His familiarity with offensive coordinator Drew Petzing should help him transition quickly into Detroit’s offense and special teams units.

From a fantasy perspective, Dortch is one of the more underrated return specialists in the league. Unlike many players who contribute exclusively on special teams, Dortch has proven he can earn offensive snaps and targets when called upon. While he is unlikely to become a major fantasy contributor through receiving volume alone, the combination of return opportunities and rotational offensive usage gives him a relatively safe floor in return-yardage leagues. Kendrick Law and Tom Kennedy remain names to monitor throughout camp, but Dortch enters the season as the clear favorite to handle both return duties for the Lions.

Green Bay Packers

PR: Skyy Moore, Matthew Golden, Jayden Reed
KR: Skyy Moore, Savion Williams, Bo Melton

The Packers entered the offseason needing answers in the return game after finishing near the bottom of the league in both punt and kick return production. Their response was signing Skyy Moore, who quietly developed into one of the NFL’s better return specialists during his stint with San Francisco. Moore averaged 27.5 yards per kick return and 11.6 yards per punt return in 2025, showcasing the explosiveness that made him a second-round pick coming out of college.

What makes Moore particularly interesting for return-yardage leagues is that he may offer more than just special teams production. Green Bay’s wide receiver room has opportunities available behind Matthew Golden, Christian Watson, and Jayden Reed, and Moore brings the type of speed and versatility that Matt LaFleur has historically found creative ways to utilize. Whether it’s as a rotational receiver, gadget player, or occasional backfield weapon, Moore has multiple avenues to earn touches. The Packers also know Christian Watson’s injury history makes receiver depth critical, creating even more opportunities for Moore to carve out a consistent role. If Moore wins both return jobs while earning offensive snaps, he could become one of the better values in return-yardage formats. The combination of return production, big-play ability, and a realistic path to offensive involvement makes him a sneaky target for fantasy managers looking for hidden edges. Among the names we’ve covered so far, Moore is one of the more underrated return specialists with legitimate upside beyond special teams.

Houston Texans

PR: Jaylin Noel
KR: Jaylin Noel, Tremon Smith

This is one of my favorite return situations for fantasy managers because Jaylin Noel has a realistic path to contributing both on offense and special teams. Noel enters 2026 as the favorite to handle Houston’s return duties, but more importantly, he appears poised for a significantly larger offensive role. With Christian Kirk departing in free agency, Noel is expected to step into the primary slot receiver role in an offense led by C.J. Stroud. That’s a massive development for a player who already flashed playmaking ability whenever given opportunities as a rookie.

The appeal here is simple: most return specialists are fighting just to make the roster, while Noel could be a full-time offensive contributor who also handles returns. He should remain on the field in Houston’s three-receiver sets, and there’s a legitimate argument that the fantasy community is sleeping on his upside. If he locks down both the slot role and return duties, Noel could become one of the most valuable players in return-yardage formats. Tremon Smith remains a veteran option on kick returns, but Noel is the clear name fantasy managers should be focused on here. He has the profile of a player whose value could significantly outpace his current cost.

Indianapolis Colts

PR: Anthony Gould, Josh Downs
KR: Anthony Gould, Ashton Dulin

Anthony Gould appears locked into Indianapolis’ return duties entering 2026 and is one of the more underrated return specialists in the league. The former Oregon State standout quickly flashed his explosiveness after being drafted in 2024 and eventually secured the Colts’ primary return role in 2025. Before a foot injury ended his season, Gould handled both punt and kickoff duties while producing multiple 100-plus return-yard performances. His speed and ability to create chunk plays in space make him a natural fit for the role.

The challenge from a fantasy perspective is finding a path to meaningful offensive volume. Josh Downs remains entrenched as the Colts’ primary slot receiver, and Indianapolis has several established pass-catching options ahead of Gould on the depth chart. That likely keeps much of his fantasy value tied to special teams production. Still, in leagues that reward return yardage, Gould offers a relatively safe weekly floor because of his projected workload on both punts and kickoffs. While he may not possess the offensive upside of some of the names we’ve discussed earlier, few players seem more secure in their return responsibilities entering the season.

Jacksonville Jaguars

PR: Parker Washington, Ameer Abdullah
KR: Bhayshul Tuten, LeQuint Allen Jr., Ameer Abdullah

Parker Washington quietly put together one of the most impressive return seasons in the NFL last year. Not only did he lead Jacksonville with 58 receptions for 847 yards and five touchdowns, but he also added 341 punt return yards and two punt return touchdowns. Washington became the first player in franchise history to score multiple punt return touchdowns in a single season and joined an exclusive group of NFL players to eclipse 750 receiving yards while also scoring multiple return touchdowns in the same year. Given that level of offensive involvement, Washington already carries significant value in return-yardage formats.

The name that jumps off the page, however, is Bhayshul Tuten. Tuten is currently projected to handle kick return duties and has a legitimate chance to emerge as Jacksonville’s RB1. That’s where things get exciting. Most return specialists are fighting for offensive snaps, but Tuten could potentially lead the Jaguars’ backfield while also accumulating return yardage. If that happens, he becomes one of the biggest cheat codes in fantasy football formats that reward kick and punt return production. It’s a major reason why his value should be considerably higher in these leagues than in traditional scoring settings. Even if the Jaguars eventually scale back some of his return work as his offensive role grows, the early-season combination of touches and return opportunities could provide a substantial edge for fantasy managers

Kansas City Chiefs

PR: Nikko Remigio, Brashard Smith, Cyrus Allen
KR: Nikko Remigio, Brashard Smith, Cyrus Allen

This is one of the more competitive return battles in the league entering training camp. Nikko Remigio returns as the incumbent after handling the majority of Kansas City’s return duties last season. The Chiefs clearly value him, bringing him back for another year despite having opportunities to look elsewhere. Remigio has earned the trust of both the coaching staff and special teams coordinator Dave Toub, making him the early favorite to retain a significant role. However, his return efficiency dipped with increased volume in 2025, opening the door for competition.

The player I’m most interested in here is Cyrus Allen. While Remigio currently holds the inside track, Allen has the type of athletic profile and explosive traits that could quickly force his way into the conversation. Kansas City is searching for more playmaking ability across its roster after a disappointing season, and Allen could provide exactly that. Brashard Smith is also firmly in the mix, making this a legitimate three-way battle rather than a situation with a clear-cut winner.

For fantasy managers in return-yardage leagues, this is a camp battle worth tracking closely. Remigio may open the season atop the depth chart, but Allen feels like the sleeper. If he can earn return duties while simultaneously carving out an offensive role in one of the league’s best quarterback situations, his value could rise quickly. Among the lesser-known names in this article, Allen is one of my favorite deep stashes to monitor throughout the preseason.

Las Vegas Raiders

PR: Tre Tucker
KR: Dareke Young, Dylan Laube

Tre Tucker enters 2026 as one of the more interesting players in return-yardage formats because his value may ultimately come more from offense than special teams. The former Cincinnati standout has steadily improved each season and is receiving glowing reviews from new head coach Klint Kubiak during offseason workouts. With questions surrounding the Raiders’ wide receiver room, Tucker has a legitimate chance to emerge as one of Kirk Cousins/Fernando Mendoza’s’ top targets alongside Brock Bowers. If that happens, the return production becomes a bonus rather than the primary source of his fantasy value.

From a pure return perspective, Tucker has been serviceable but not spectacular. His career punt return numbers are relatively modest, and there is a chance his offensive role grows to the point where the Raiders eventually limit some of his special teams usage. That’s why the kick return battle may be more important for fantasy managers to monitor. Dareke Young was specifically brought in from Seattle to improve the Raiders’ return game after averaging more than 32 yards per kickoff return in 2025. His special teams experience and explosive play ability make him the early favorite for kickoff duties. For return-yardage leagues, Tucker remains the most valuable asset because of his offensive upside, but Young could quietly become a useful deep-league option if he secures the primary kick return role. This is a situation where the offensive value and return value may end up belonging to two different players.

Los Angeles Chargers

PR: Derius Davis, Tarheeb Still, Ladd McConkey
KR: Keaton Mitchell, Derius Davis, KeAndre Lambert-Smith

The Chargers have one of the most established return situations in the league thanks to Derius Davis. Since entering the NFL, Davis has consistently been one of the better return specialists in football, accumulating nearly 2,800 combined return yards across kick and punt returns. His rookie season was particularly impressive, averaging 16.0 yards per punt return while scoring a touchdown. Even with a slight decline in punt production over the last two seasons, Davis remains the favorite to handle primary punt return duties entering 2026.

The more interesting development is at kick returner, where Keaton Mitchell enters the season as the projected starter. Mitchell has been highly effective whenever given return opportunities, averaging nearly 27 yards per kick return in both 2024 and 2025. Unlike many return specialists, Mitchell also carries offensive upside as a running back, which makes him particularly appealing in return-yardage formats. If he can carve out a meaningful role behind the Chargers’ lead backs while maintaining kick return duties, he could become one of the more valuable dual-purpose assets in these scoring formats. Davis remains the safest bet for pure return production, but Mitchell is the player fantasy managers should be paying close attention to. Return-yardage leagues reward players who can contribute on offense and special teams, and Mitchell checks both boxes entering training camp.

Los Angeles Rams

PR: Xavier Smith, Kyren Williams
KR: Ronnie Rivers, Jordan Whittington

The Rams entered the offseason determined to improve their special teams unit, but it remains unclear whether they actually found answers in the return game. Xavier Smith returns as the favorite for punt return duties after handling the role throughout most of 2025. While Smith produced respectable numbers, averaging 8.3 yards per return, his season will unfortunately be remembered for a costly muffed punt in the NFC Championship Game. Despite that mistake, he still appears to have the inside track for the job entering training camp.

The kick return battle is less exciting from a fantasy perspective. Ronnie Rivers and Jordan Whittington both handled return duties last season, but neither separated themselves as a difference-maker. Rivers was the most effective of the group, averaging nearly 26 yards per return, but the Rams’ overall return production remained below league average. Unless someone unexpected emerges during camp, this feels like a situation where the Rams are simply hoping for competence rather than explosive production.

For fantasy managers, there isn’t a clear target here. Xavier Smith likely offers the safest return volume, but his offensive role remains minimal. Whittington is probably the most intriguing name because he has a better chance of carving out offensive snaps while maintaining return duties. Still, compared to many of the teams we’ve discussed so far, the Rams’ return situation lacks both stability and upside, making this one of the less appealing return rooms in fantasy football.

Miami Dolphins

PR: Malik Washington, Kevin Coleman Jr., Tahj Washington
KR: Malik Washington, Ollie Gordon II

This is one of the more intriguing return situations in the league because Malik Washington offers both return production and potential offensive upside. Washington has been Miami’s primary return specialist over the last two seasons, accumulating nearly 1,400 kick return yards while averaging an impressive 27.9 yards per return. He also took a punt return to the house in 2025 and has steadily improved his offensive production, posting 46 receptions, 317 receiving yards, and three touchdowns last season.

The biggest question is roster security. Miami brought in additional competition at wide receiver, and the new coaching staff did not draft or sign Washington. However, if he secures a roster spot, there is a legitimate opportunity available on the depth chart behind the starters. That combination of offensive snaps plus return work is exactly what fantasy managers should be looking for in return-yardage leagues. Washington may not be a lock to make the final roster, but if he does, he could provide one of the safest weekly floors among return specialists while offering enough offensive involvement to become a sneaky fantasy asset. Kevin Coleman Jr. and Tahj Washington are also names worth monitoring throughout camp as they battle for depth receiver roles and potential return opportunities.

Minnesota Vikings

PR: Myles Price, Jeshaun Jones
KR: Myles Price, Tai Felton

Myles Price quietly put together one of the most productive return seasons in the NFL as a rookie and may be one of the more overlooked assets in return-yardage formats. After Rondale Moore suffered a preseason injury, Price stepped into both return roles and never looked back. He finished third in the NFL with 1,479 kick return yards while adding another 298 punt return yards, handling an enormous workload throughout the season. Under the league’s kickoff rules, Price consistently generated positive field position and ranked among the league leaders in explosive returns.

The biggest question entering 2026 is whether Price can carve out a larger offensive role. He played sparingly at wide receiver as a rookie, but the Vikings clearly trust him on special teams. If he can earn additional snaps on offense while maintaining both return jobs, his fantasy value could climb substantially. Even if that offensive role never materializes, the sheer volume of return opportunities gives him one of the safer floors among players featured in this article.

For return-yardage leagues, Price is exactly the type of player managers should be targeting. He may not be a household fantasy name, but few players are projected to receive more return volume entering the season. Sometimes the best return-yardage assets aren’t the stars, they’re the specialists who quietly rack up 1,500-plus return yards over the course of a season, and Price fits that description perfectly.

New England Patriots

PR: Marcus Jones, Efton Chism III
KR: Kyle Williams, Efton Chism III

The Patriots offer one of the more fantasy-friendly return situations because both primary returners have paths to contributing on offense. Marcus Jones remains one of the NFL’s most dangerous punt returners, coming off a 2025 season where he averaged 17.3 yards per return and scored two touchdowns. His ability to flip field position makes him the clear favorite to retain punt return duties, and few players in the league have been as explosive in that role over the last several seasons.

The kick return job currently belongs to rookie Kyle Williams, which is where things get interesting for return-yardage leagues. Williams already contributed on offense last season while adding nearly 300 kick return yards, and New England’s wide receiver room remains wide open behind the top options. If Williams can earn a larger offensive role while maintaining kick return duties, he could become one of the more valuable return-yardage assets in deeper formats. Efton Chism III also remains in the mix for both jobs, but entering training camp, Jones appears locked into punt returns while Williams has a chance to provide both return production and offensive upside.

New Orleans Saints

PR: Barion Brown, Mason Tipton
KR: Barion Brown, Mason Tipton, Kendre Miller, Ty Chandler

Barion Brown might be one of the most exciting return specialists in this entire article. The Saints drafted the former LSU and Kentucky playmaker with the expectation that he would immediately compete for return duties following the departure of Rashid Shaheed. Brown leaves college as one of the most accomplished kick returners in recent memory, finishing his career with six kickoff return touchdowns, an SEC record and one of the best marks in NCAA history. His elite speed, highlighted by a 4.40 forty and GPS-tracked speeds over 22 MPH, gives him game-breaking ability every time he touches the football. What elevates Brown above many return specialists is the potential offensive role. New Orleans has made it clear they view him as more than just a returner. Head coach Kellen Moore has already emphasized that Brown was drafted as both a receiver and return specialist, and the Saints’ receiver room remains relatively open behind Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson. Brown led LSU in receptions and receiving yards last season and has consistently shown the ability to create explosive plays both as a receiver and ball carrier.

For fantasy managers, this is exactly the profile we’re chasing in return-yardage formats. Brown has a realistic path to handling kick returns, potentially earning punt return work, and carving out offensive snaps as a rookie. If he secures a meaningful role in all three phases, he could quickly become one of the biggest values in return-yardage leagues. Among the rookie returners we’ve covered so far, Brown belongs firmly near the top of the watchlist.

New York Giants

PR: Xavier Gipson, Jevón Holland
KR: Deonte Banks, Devin Singletary

The Giants’ return situation became significantly more interesting after Gunner Olszewski suffered what is feared to be a season-ending Achilles injury. Olszewski was expected to handle both punt and kick return duties while also competing for a role in the offense, leaving New York searching for answers heading into training camp. That opens the door for several players, but Xavier Gipson appears to be one of the early favorites to take over punt return responsibilities. Gipson built a reputation as an ascending special teams weapon with the Jets and offers more offensive upside than many traditional return specialists.

The bigger fantasy storyline may be Deonte Banks. While Banks has struggled to fully establish himself as a starting cornerback, he was surprisingly effective as a kick returner in 2025, averaging 32.7 yards per return and scoring a touchdown. Those numbers earned him Second-Team All-Pro votes and may have helped him carve out a long-term role on special teams. The challenge, of course, is that defensive backs rarely provide fantasy value outside of the deepest return-yardage formats. Overall, this feels like one of the more fluid return situations in the league. Gipson is probably the player fantasy managers should monitor most closely because he offers at least some path to offensive involvement. Banks appears to be the safest bet for kick return duties, but unless your league heavily rewards return yardage, his value remains limited compared to some of the offensive players we’ve discussed throughout this article.

New York Jets

PR: Isaiah Williams, Jamaal Pritchett, Arian Smith
KR: Kene Nwangwu, Isaiah Davis, Devin Singletary

The Jets may have one of the strongest return tandems in the league entering 2026. Isaiah Williams emerged as one of the NFL’s most explosive return specialists last season, scoring multiple return touchdowns while also carving out a role on offense. His 26 receptions may not jump off the page, but his late-season usage increased, and he earned the respect of the locker room by being voted the team’s Curtis Martin Team MVP. Williams appears to have a strong grip on punt return duties while also providing enough offensive versatility to justify an active roster spot.

Kene Nwangwu remains the favorite on kick returns and is arguably one of the best pure return specialists in football. He averaged an incredible 33.6 yards per kick return in 2025 and added another return touchdown to a résumé that already includes multiple kick-return scores throughout his career. The Jets re-signed him this offseason despite ongoing roster competition, which speaks to the value he provides on special teams. While neither player projects for massive offensive volume, Williams and Nwangwu both have secure return roles entering camp, making this one of the more stable return situations for fantasy managers in return-yardage formats.

Philadelphia Eagles

PR: Britain Covey, Makai Lemon
KR: Will Shipley, Dameon Pierce, Tank Bigsby

The Eagles have one of the more straightforward return situations entering training camp. Britain Covey remains the favorite for punt return duties and is arguably the best pure punt returner on the roster. The only concern is roster security. Philadelphia’s receiver room is crowded, and Covey will need to continue proving his value on special teams to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster. If he makes the team, he should handle the majority of punt return opportunities.

The more interesting fantasy discussion centers around Will Shipley. Shipley led the Eagles in kick returns last season and enters 2026 as the clear favorite to retain that role. Unlike many kick returners, Shipley also has a pathway to offensive touches as a rotational running back. That combination makes him one of the more intriguing return-yardage assets on the roster. Tank Bigsby handled kick returns last season but struggled in the role, making it unlikely Philadelphia leans on him heavily again unless injuries force their hand. For fantasy managers, Shipley is the name worth monitoring. Covey may provide return volume, but Shipley offers the combination of return production and offensive upside that we’re looking for throughout this article. If he can maintain the kick return role while earning additional touches in the offense, he could quietly provide useful value in return-yardage formats.

Pittsburgh Steelers

PR: Kaden Wetjen, Donte Kent
KR: Kaden Wetjen, Rico Dowdle, Jaylen Warren

The Steelers drafted Kaden Wetjen with a very specific role in mind. One of the most decorated return specialists in recent college football history, Wetjen arrives in Pittsburgh after totaling nearly 2,500 combined return yards and six return touchdowns during his career at Iowa. He was a two-time Rodgers-Dwight Return Specialist of the Year winner and was widely viewed as one of the top return prospects in the 2026 draft class. The Steelers’ coaching staff has already praised his ability as a dual-threat returner, suggesting he could immediately take over both punt and kick return duties.

From a fantasy perspective, however, Wetjen is a bit different than many of the players we’ve discussed throughout this article. Unlike players such as Jaylin Noel, Bhayshul Tuten, or Barion Brown, Wetjen currently projects as a pure return specialist. Pittsburgh drafted him primarily for his special teams value, and there isn’t an obvious path to significant offensive snaps given the depth chart in front of him. That doesn’t mean he lacks value in return-yardage leagues. In fact, his projected return volume could be among the highest in the league. The question ultimately comes down to league format. In leagues that heavily reward return yardage, Wetjen could become a weekly contributor based on volume alone. In formats where offensive production still drives the majority of scoring, his ceiling may be capped unless he unexpectedly earns a larger offensive role. He’s one of the safer bets to secure return duties, but one of the lower-upside names from a traditional fantasy perspective.

San Francisco 49ers

PR: Jacob Cowing, Jordan Watkins, Ricky Pearsall
KR: Isaac Guerendo, Jacob Cowing

The 49ers enter 2026 with one of the most wide-open return battles in football. After moving on from Skyy Moore and receiving inconsistent results from the return game last season, San Francisco appears ready to let several young players compete for the jobs throughout training camp. Based on prior experience and roster projection, Jacob Cowing currently looks like the early favorite for punt return duties. Cowing handled 28 punts as a rookie before missing the 2025 season with a hamstring injury, and he remains one of the few players on the roster with meaningful NFL return experience. Jordan Watkins is the name worth monitoring closely. The rookie has experience returning punts in college and enters a crowded receiver room where special teams could be his quickest path to earning a roster spot. The same can be said for Junior Bergen, although Watkins appears to have a clearer path to contributing offensively. Ricky Pearsall also has return experience, but if he develops into the offensive weapon the 49ers expect, it’s hard to imagine San Francisco exposing him to regular return duties.

On kick returns, Isaac Guerendo remains the projected favorite despite the team exploring other options throughout 2025. Guerendo has the size and speed profile teams covet under the new kickoff rules, and the 49ers seem comfortable utilizing him there if needed. However, this is far from a settled situation. For fantasy purposes, this is a battle worth monitoring rather than aggressively targeting today. Cowing appears to have the strongest chance of securing a return role, but the player with the most upside may actually be Watkins if he can earn both return duties and offensive snaps. Until camp clarifies the pecking order, this remains one of the murkier return situations in the league.

Seattle Seahawks

PR: Tory Horton, Jaxon Smith-Njigba
KR: Tory Horton, Kenny McIntosh

Tory Horton is one of the more intriguing return specialists entering 2026 because he offers legitimate upside both on offense and special teams. Before a shin injury ended his rookie season, Horton flashed exactly why Seattle drafted him. He became just the third rookie in franchise history to score both a receiving touchdown and a punt return touchdown in the same game, while also setting a Seahawks franchise record with a 95-yard punt return score. In only eight games, Horton showcased the explosive playmaking ability that made him a favorite of the coaching staff throughout training camp.

What’s particularly interesting is how Seattle views him moving forward. The Seahawks have openly discussed Horton as a potential replacement for some of the vertical field-stretching ability they previously received from Rashid Shaheed. While they may not view him as quite the same caliber of return specialist, they believe he offers more upside as a complete receiver. That’s important for fantasy managers because return-yardage leagues are won by players who contribute on offense and special teams, not specialists alone.

If Horton is fully healthy by training camp, he has a realistic chance to secure both return duties while carving out a meaningful role in Seattle’s receiver rotation. Kenny McIntosh remains in the mix on kick returns, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba is talented enough to handle punt returns if needed, but the Seahawks would likely prefer to keep their star receiver focused on offense. Among the players we’ve discussed so far, Horton is one of the better upside bets because he has a legitimate pathway to both return production and offensive relevance.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

PR: Kameron Johnson, Keionte Scott, Trey Palmer
KR: Kenneth Gainwell, Bucky Irving, Trey Palmer

This is a return room that could look very different by the time Week 1 arrives. Kameron Johnson handled the majority of Tampa Bay’s punt return duties in 2025 and performed well enough to remain in the mix entering camp. The problem is roster security. Johnson isn’t guaranteed a spot on the final roster, which is why the Buccaneers may have quietly added some insurance during the draft. Fourth-round pick Keionte Scott is a name fantasy managers should know. While he was drafted primarily as a defensive back, Scott has a strong return background and was one of the SEC’s most dangerous punt returners during his time at Auburn. His 4.33 speed and special teams experience give him a legitimate chance to challenge for return duties if Tampa Bay decides to utilize him in that role. If Scott settles into a starting defensive role, the Buccaneers may choose to protect him from return work, but the possibility remains on the table.

The kick return situation is equally interesting. Kenneth Gainwell and Bucky Irving currently appear to be the leading candidates, with Irving carrying the most fantasy appeal. Unlike most return specialists, Irving already has a meaningful offensive role and could see his value receive a small boost if Tampa Bay entrusts him with kickoff duties. That said, teams are often hesitant to expose key offensive weapons to excessive return work, making Gainwell a strong candidate to ultimately handle a larger share of those opportunities. Overall, this feels like one of the more unsettled return rooms in football. Irving remains the most valuable fantasy asset, but his value is driven primarily by offense. Scott is probably the most interesting sleeper because he could emerge as the primary punt returner while also contributing on defense. This is definitely a camp battle worth monitoring.

Tennessee Titans

PR: Chimere Dike, Xavier Restrepo
KR: Chimere Dike, Kalel Mullings

If you played in a return-yardage league last season, there’s a good chance Chimere Dike helped win you some matchups and maybe even leagues. Dike was arguably the biggest cheat code in the format during his rookie campaign, producing a historic all-purpose season that combined elite return production with meaningful offensive involvement. He finished with an NFL rookie record 2,427 all-purpose yards, including nearly 2,000 combined return yards. His 1,588 kick return yards and 398 punt return yards made him one of the most productive return specialists in football while also contributing 48 receptions, 423 receiving yards, and four touchdowns on offense.

What separates Dike from many return specialists is that he isn’t simply a special teams player. Tennessee consistently found ways to get him involved offensively, and there is reason to believe that role could continue growing entering his second season. The only concern for fantasy managers is whether Tennessee chooses to preserve Dike by shifting some kick return duties to Kalel Mullings or another player. Even if that happens, Dike should remain heavily involved in the return game and projects as one of the safest return-yardage assets in fantasy football. Unlike many players on this list who are battling for roster spots or return jobs, Dike has already shown he can thrive as both a receiver and return specialist. That’s exactly the profile fantasy managers should be chasing in these formats.

Washington Commanders

PR: Luke McCaffrey, Jaylin Lane
KR: Jaylin Lane

Jaylin Lane quietly emerged as one of the better return specialists in football during his rookie season and could be poised for an even bigger role in 2026. Lane averaged 13.7 yards per punt return while scoring two touchdowns, including a franchise-tying 90-yard return that showcased the explosiveness Washington hoped they were getting when they brought him into the organization. His ability to consistently create field position and generate big plays quickly made him a favorite on special teams.

What makes Lane particularly appealing in return-yardage formats is that he isn’t limited to special teams. He also contributed offensively as a rookie, posting 16 receptions for 225 yards while flashing the downfield playmaking ability that made him an intriguing prospect coming out of college. Among the players we’ve discussed, Lane is another example of the profile fantasy managers should target in return-yardage leagues. He has already secured a meaningful return role, has proven touchdown upside on special teams, and offers enough offensive involvement to raise his weekly ceiling. If his role in the offense expands even modestly in Year 2, he could once again outperform expectations in formats that reward return production.

Under-the-Radar Return Yardage Targets I’m Actively Acquiring

The obvious names like Chimere Dike, Marvin Mims Jr., Bhayshul Tuten, and other established return stars are already valued appropriately in most return-yardage formats. Instead, let’s focus on a few under-the-radar players whose combination of return opportunities and offensive upside could create a significant edge before the rest of your league catches on.

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