Drew Sample vs Jeremy Ruckert
Two tight ends fantasy managers weigh against each other for 2026. Here is the head-to-head on projections, expert consensus, ADP and usage, with our Clutch Score verdict on who to draft.
Who to draft
Slight lean · 56% confident
Drew Sample- Higher projection: 32 vs 9 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 513 vs 558
Drew Sample and Jeremy Ruckert are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Drew Sample holds the edge in expert consensus (TE75 to TE86). The 2026 projections give a modest edge: Drew Sample at 32 PPR points (1.9 per game) versus Jeremy Ruckert at 9.
Last season Jeremy Ruckert carried the heavier workload (47% snap share, 29 touches to Drew Sample's 21), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Jeremy Ruckert is the younger option (age 26), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Drew Sample is the narrow pick on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Sample | Ruckert |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 32 | 9 |
| Points / game | 1.9 | 2.8 |
| Games played | 17 | 17 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #513 | #558 |
| Positional rank | TE62 | TE55 |
| Snap share | 52% | 47% |
| Red-zone touches | 1 | 3 |
| Age | 30 | 26 |
| Bye week | 6 | 13 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Drew Sample or Jeremy Ruckert.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Drew Sample or Jeremy Ruckert in 2026?
Drew Sample is a slight lean over Jeremy Ruckert for 2026, on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Who is projected to score more, Drew Sample or Jeremy Ruckert?
Drew Sample carries the higher 2026 projection at 32 PPR points (1.9 per game), compared with 9 for Jeremy Ruckert.
Who is ranked higher, Drew Sample or Jeremy Ruckert?
Expert consensus ranks Drew Sample (TE75) ahead of Jeremy Ruckert (TE86) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.