Fantasy football season is here, and with draft day approaching, one big question remains: Who should I draft? Selecting the right players can make the difference between dominating your league and finishing at the bottom. This guide provides a complete breakdown of the best strategies and key players you should target in your fantasy football draft.
Understanding Draft Strategy
Before diving into player recommendations, it’s important to have a solid draft strategy in place. Here are the key points you should consider:
- Know Your League Settings: Scoring systems vary between leagues—whether it’s standard, PPR (points per reception), or superflex, your draft approach should adjust accordingly.
- Target Elite Running Backs Early: Workhorse running backs are scarce, making them the most valuable assets in fantasy football.
- Wait on a Quarterback: Unless you can grab an elite QB like Patrick Mahomes or Josh Allen at the right value, it’s often better to wait on this position.
- Balance Your Roster: Don’t overinvest in one position early; build a well-rounded team with depth.
First-Round Picks: Who Should You Draft?
The first round is where you secure your cornerstone player. Here are some top choices:
- Christian McCaffrey (RB, San Francisco 49ers): A dual-threat back who dominates both rushing and receiving categories.
- Justin Jefferson (WR, Minnesota Vikings): The best wide receiver in the league, a must-have in PPR formats.
- Austin Ekeler (RB, Los Angeles Chargers): Consistently produces elite fantasy numbers year after year.
If you’re in a superflex league, quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes or Jalen Hurts become first-round considerations due to their high ceilings.
Mid-Round Gems: Value Picks
Finding value in the middle rounds is what separates good teams from great ones. Here are some strong mid-round targets:
- Travis Etienne Jr. (RB, Jacksonville Jaguars): Dynamic and set to command a majority of his team’s backfield touches.
- Chris Olave (WR, New Orleans Saints): Emerging as a top threat and could significantly outproduce his draft cost.
- Trevor Lawrence (QB, Jacksonville Jaguars): A strong QB option who can be drafted in the middle rounds for great value.
- Dallas Goedert (TE, Philadelphia Eagles): If you miss out on the elite tight ends, Goedert provides stability at the position.
Grabbing high-upside players in the mid rounds can give your roster the game-changing potential it needs.
Late-Round Sleepers: Who Can Win You the League?
Late-round picks often go overlooked, but they can end up being the most valuable players on your team. Some potential league-winners include:
- Elijah Moore (WR, Cleveland Browns): Could emerge as a top target and vastly outplay his ADP (average draft position).
- Khalil Herbert (RB, Chicago Bears): If he secures the starting role, he could be an absolute steal.
- Sam LaPorta (TE, Detroit Lions): Rookie tight ends often struggle, but LaPorta has significant upside in a high-powered offense.
At this stage in the draft, prioritize high-upside players over safe, low-ceiling options.
When to Draft a Quarterback?
Quarterbacks are crucial but not always worth an early pick unless you’re targeting an elite option. Consider these tiers:
- Elite Tier (Round 2-4): Patrick Mahomes, Jalen Hurts, Josh Allen.
- Solid QB1s (Round 5-8): Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson.
- Late-Round Sleepers: Anthony Richardson, Daniel Jones, Geno Smith.
If you miss out on an elite QB, waiting for a mid-tier option who offers consistency is a smart strategy.
Defenses and Kickers: When to Draft Them?
Defensive teams and kickers should always be taken in the final rounds of your draft. Top defenses to target:
- San Francisco 49ers: One of the most dominant defenses year after year.
- Philadelphia Eagles: Great pass rush and strong secondary.
- Buffalo Bills: A consistently solid defensive unit.
For kickers, prioritize those on high-scoring teams like Justin Tucker or Harrison Butker.
Final Tips for a Winning Fantasy Football Draft
- Mock Draft Regularly: Practicing helps you perfect your strategy.
- Stay Updated on News: Injuries and depth chart changes can drastically affect player value.
- Don’t Reach for Players: Stick to value picks rather than grabbing a player too early.
- Draft for Upside in Later Rounds: Leagues are won by picking breakout players.
By following these tips and making smart draft choices, you’ll set yourself up for fantasy football success. Now, go dominate your league!