Rugby Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-26

Welcome back to the SportsPulse.com DFS Playbook, your weekly guide to dominating the Rugby Championship slates on DraftKings and FanDuel! We're diving deep into the matchups to unearth the best plays and fades for maximum fantasy glory. Let's get straight into it.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Antoine Dupont (Scrum-half, Toulouse Titans): Dupont is in blistering form, consistently delivering an elite floor and ceiling. Last week against the Bristol Bears, he racked up 1 try, 2 assists, 3 clean breaks, and over 100 meters gained, along with his usual strong kicking game, contributing 12 points from the tee. His involvement in every facet of Toulouse's attack makes him an indispensable pick, especially against a slightly weaker defensive unit this week. Don't overthink this one; pay up for the top-tier production. 2. Ardie Savea (Flanker, Wellington Crusaders): The dynamic All Black back-rower is a fantasy monster. Savea is averaging 18 tackles per game over his last three outings, along with 10+ carries and a crucial try two weeks ago. His work rate is unmatched, providing a high floor from defensive actions and breakdown turnovers, while also possessing the explosiveness to bust open for attacking points. He's a lock for significant fantasy output every week, and this week's matchup is no different. 3. Cheslin Kolbe (Winger, Lyon XV): Kolbe is a try-scoring machine and a menace in open play. After a quieter two weeks, he exploded last round with two spectacular tries against the struggling Edinburgh Thistles, alongside 5 defenders beaten and 80+ meters gained. Lyon XV are facing a team known for leaky defense on the wings, setting up Kolbe for another potential multi-try performance. His high ceiling makes him a must-start in GPPs and a solid cash game option.

1. Owen Farrell (Fly-half, Saracens): While a proven talent, Farrell has been inconsistent with his kicking accuracy, missing key penalties and conversions in recent weeks. His general play has also been somewhat muted, resulting in lower fantasy point totals than expected for his salary. Facing a stout defensive unit from the Dublin Lions this week, his opportunities might be limited, and the pressure on his goal-kicking could increase. There are better value options at fly-half with higher ceilings. 2. Sam Whitelock (Lock, Canterbury Chiefs): Whitelock is a legendary figure, but his fantasy production has dipped. He's still a reliable lineout jumper and tackler, but his contributions in terms of carries, breakdown turnovers, or try-scoring are minimal compared to his higher-priced peers. With his salary, you're paying for name recognition rather than consistent fantasy impact. Look for more dynamic forwards elsewhere who offer higher attacking upside.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

1. Damian Willemse (Fullback, Stormers): Willemse's salary has not caught up to his increased role and excellent form. He's been instrumental in the Stormers' recent offensive surge, demonstrating great attacking flair and a strong boot from hand. With the Stormers in a favorable matchup, Willemse offers a high floor with solid meters gained and potential for try assists or even a try himself. He's fantastic bang for your buck. 2. Will Jordan (Winger, Crusaders): Often overshadowed by bigger names, Jordan is a pure finisher who

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