Fantasy analyst names Titans offensive playmaker a sleeper candidate

August 17, 2026 - 19:31

CBS fantasy football analyst Ross Kelly has singled out Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard as a player who could outperform expectations in the upcoming season. Kelly's assessment points to Pollard's role in the Titans' revamped offensive scheme, which is expected to lean heavily on the ground game under new coordinator Nick Holz.

Pollard, who joined Tennessee last offseason after four years with the Dallas Cowboys, is coming off a solid but not spectacular campaign. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in 2024, but his efficiency dipped compared to his breakout years in Dallas. Kelly argues that Pollard's workload will increase this season, especially with the departure of Derrick Henry and the team's commitment to a more balanced attack. The analyst also noted that Pollard's pass-catching ability out of the backfield makes him a valuable asset in PPR leagues, as he hauled in 38 receptions last year.

The Titans have made several offensive line upgrades, which should give Pollard more room to run. With quarterback Will Levis entering his second year, the team will likely rely on Pollard to take pressure off the young signal-caller. Kelly believes that if Pollard stays healthy and sees 250-plus touches, he could easily finish as a top-15 fantasy back. While some drafters may be hesitant due to his age and past workload, Kelly sees a player with fresh legs and a clear path to volume. For fantasy managers looking for value in the middle rounds, Pollard could be a steal.