The Ultimate Guide to Drafting Fantasy Players with the 6th Pick

First Pick: Jaxon Smith-Njigba – Securing a Top WR Picking sixth in a PPR fantasy football draft is a strategic starting point that demands a smart choice among elite offensive players. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the Seattle Seahawks’ dynamic wide receiver, is a prime example. In the 2025 season, he delivered his best fantasy year yet, hauling in 119 receptions for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns. Smith-Njigba finished second among WRs in PPR scoring, just behind Amon-Ra St. Brown, highlighting his ability to be a leading figure both on his team and in fantasy leagues.

With the expected absence of the Seahawks’ third-string running back, Kenneth Walker, in 2026, Smith-Njigba is poised to become an even more central offensive target. This is a major advantage for anyone selecting him, as it likely means more opportunities to catch passes and rack up yards after the catch, boosting his fantasy output. For fantasy managers, choosing a high-volume WR like Smith-Njigba balances stability with significant upside.

Second Pick: Saquon Barkley – A Running Back with Upside Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles is a player with a history of stellar fantasy seasons, though he’s also shown some inconsistency. After a historic 2024 campaign showcasing his dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver, Barkley fell short of expectations in 2025, finishing 14th among PPR running backs. He rushed for 1,140 yards and added 273 receiving yards, scoring a total of 9 touchdowns.

A key factor influencing Barkley’s fantasy potential is the departure of legendary WR A.J. Brown from the Eagles. Brown’s exit opens the door for Barkley to see more touches, especially in an offense that emphasizes both the run and pass game. While Barkley carries some risk due to injuries and inconsistency, his potential to break out next season is high, making him a savvy second-round pick.

Third Pick: Malik Nabers – Draft Sleeper with Boom Potential Malik Nabers, the New York Giants’ explosive wide receiver, is one of the hottest names in the third round of fantasy drafts. He played only four games in 2025 due to a severe knee injury but still managed to rack up 271 yards and 4 touchdowns—impressive numbers that signal significant upside.

His injury remains a question mark, but if Nabers returns to full health, he could become a major offensive weapon. The Giants are building around him as a key part of their attack, and his fantasy ceiling is enormous. Managers looking for a high-upside player in the middle rounds should definitely consider Nabers on their draft boards.

Summary and Tips for Building a Winning Roster with the 6th Pick Selecting sixth in a fantasy football draft offers managers a chance to blend reliability with breakout potential. It’s wise to start with a top WR who plays a central offensive role, like Smith-Njigba, move on to a high-upside RB like Barkley, and finish with a boom-or-bust player like Nabers.

Keep a close eye on team roster changes, especially the departure of key players that affect target distribution. Capitalizing on these shifts can provide a significant edge in the upcoming season. Additionally, aim to build a balanced roster that mixes high-upside players with steady contributors who can deliver consistent points throughout the year.

The sixth pick is a strategic launchpad that requires deep analysis and understanding of player potential—this approach will help you assemble a strong squad ready to compete for the fantasy football championship in 2026.