Welcome to the exciting world of fantasy football, where you assemble a virtual team of real-life NFL players and compete against others based on their statistical performances. The key to success in fantasy football lies in making informed draft picks, selecting players who will consistently deliver points and help you dominate your league.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with essential information and strategies to help you make informed draft decisions. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy football veteran or just starting, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights you need to build a championship-caliber team.
As we approach the draft, it's crucial to understand the different positions and their values in fantasy football. Let's delve into the key positions and provide expert recommendations to help you make informed draft decisions.
Who to Draft in Fantasy Football
To help you build a winning fantasy football team, consider these 10 key points:
- Prioritize high-powered offenses.
- Target consistent running backs.
- Wide receivers are key playmakers.
- Tight ends offer stability and upside.
- Draft quarterbacks with dual-threat ability.
- Don't forget about team defenses/special teams.
- Research and consider sleepers and breakout candidates.
- Stay informed with up-to-date player news and injuries.
- Monitor bye weeks and roster management.
- Stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances.
By following these points and conducting thorough research, you'll be well-equipped to make informed draft decisions and build a formidable fantasy football team.
Prioritize High-Powered Offenses
In fantasy football, points are king. And the best way to score points is to draft players from high-powered offenses.
- Look for teams with dynamic playmakers.
These are the players who can score from anywhere on the field and create big plays. Look for teams with multiple playmakers, such as quarterbacks with strong passing attacks, running backs with big-play ability, and wide receivers who can stretch the field.
- Favor pass-happy offenses.
Passing offenses tend to generate more points than run-heavy offenses. Look for teams that pass the ball at least 30 times per game and have a quarterback with a strong arm and accurate passing ability.
- Consider teams with favorable schedules.
Some teams have easier schedules than others. Look for teams that play against weaker defenses and have a favorable home-field advantage.
- Don't forget about offensive line play.
A strong offensive line is essential for any high-powered offense. Look for teams with offensive linemen who are good at pass blocking and run blocking.
By targeting players from high-powered offenses, you increase your chances of scoring points and winning your fantasy football matchup.
Target Consistent Running Backs
Running backs are the workhorses of a football offense, and they can be a major source of points in fantasy football. When drafting running backs, it's important to target players who are consistent and have a high floor.
- Look for lead running backs.
Lead running backs are the players who get the most carries and touches in an offense. They are the most likely to score points and produce consistent fantasy numbers.
- Favor running backs with good pass-catching ability.
In today's NFL, running backs are often used as receivers out of the backfield. Running backs who can catch passes can score points in a variety of ways and are less likely to be taken out of the game on passing downs.
- Consider running backs with a clear path to playing time.
Some running backs share carries with other players, which can limit their fantasy production. Look for running backs who are the clear-cut lead back in their offense and have a chance to get a lot of touches.
- Don't forget about handcuff running backs.
Handcuff running backs are the backups to lead running backs. While they may not start every game, they can be valuable if the lead running back gets injured or needs a rest. Handcuff running backs can also be used to exploit matchups against weak run defenses.
By targeting consistent running backs, you can help ensure that your fantasy team scores points every week.
Wide Receivers Are Key Playmakers
Wide receivers are the primary targets of a quarterback's passes, and they can be a major source of points in fantasy football. When drafting wide receivers, it's important to target players who are playmakers and have the ability to score from anywhere on the field.
Here are some things to look for when drafting wide receivers:
- Speed and athleticism. Wide receivers who are fast and athletic can create separation from defenders and make big plays. Look for wide receivers who have good speed, acceleration, and agility.
- Route-running ability. Wide receivers who are good at running routes can get open and create opportunities for themselves. Look for wide receivers who have good route-running technique and can create separation from defenders.
- Hands and ball skills. Wide receivers need to be able to catch the ball consistently and make plays after the catch. Look for wide receivers who have good hands and ball skills.
- Chemistry with the quarterback. Wide receivers who have good chemistry with their quarterback are more likely to be productive. Look for wide receivers who have a history of success with their quarterback or who have a good rapport with them.
By targeting wide receivers who have these qualities, you can help ensure that your fantasy team scores points and wins games.
In addition to the above, it's also important to consider the wide receiver's role in the offense. Some wide receivers are primary targets, while others are more complementary players. Primary targets are typically the wide receivers who line up on the outside and are the main focus of the passing game. Complementary players are typically the wide receivers who line up in the slot or on the inside and are used to create mismatches and open up the field for the primary targets.
Tight Ends Offer Stability and Upside
Tight ends are often overlooked in fantasy football, but they can be a valuable asset to any team. Tight ends offer a combination of stability and upside, making them a safe pick with the potential for big plays.
Here are some things to look for when drafting tight ends:
- Target share. Tight ends who are heavily targeted by their quarterbacks are more likely to be productive. Look for tight ends who have a high target share in their offense.
- Red zone targets. Tight ends are often a quarterback's favorite target in the red zone, where they can use their size and athleticism to make big plays. Look for tight ends who have a good number of red zone targets.
- Athleticism and receiving skills. Tight ends who are good athletes and have good receiving skills are more likely to be productive. Look for tight ends who have good speed, agility, and hands.
- Blocking ability. While tight ends are primarily pass-catchers, they also need to be able to block effectively. Look for tight ends who are good blockers and can help their team in the running game.
By targeting tight ends who have these qualities, you can help ensure that your fantasy team has a reliable pass-catching option and a potential source of big plays.
In addition to the above, it's also important to consider the tight end's role in the offense. Some tight ends are primary targets in the passing game, while others are more complementary players. Primary targets are typically the tight ends who line up on the outside and are the main focus of the passing game. Complementary players are typically the tight ends who line up in the slot or on the inside and are used to create mismatches and open up the field for the primary targets.
Draft Quarterbacks with Dual-Threat Ability
In today's NFL, quarterbacks with dual-threat ability are becoming increasingly valuable. These quarterbacks can beat defenses with their arm and their legs, making them a nightmare to game plan against.
- Rushing ability. Dual-threat quarterbacks are able to use their legs to gain yards and score touchdowns. Look for quarterbacks who have good speed and agility and who are comfortable running the ball.
- Passing ability. Of course, dual-threat quarterbacks also need to be able to pass the ball effectively. Look for quarterbacks who have good arm strength and accuracy and who can make all the throws.
- Offensive scheme. Some offensive schemes are more conducive to dual-threat quarterbacks than others. Look for quarterbacks who are in offenses that allow them to use their legs and who have a good supporting cast of skill players.
- Injury risk. Dual-threat quarterbacks are more likely to get injured than pocket passers because they are more likely to take hits. Consider the quarterback's injury history and the potential for him to miss games.
By targeting quarterbacks with dual-threat ability, you can help ensure that your fantasy team has a quarterback who can score points in a variety of ways and who can help you win games.
Don't Forget About Team Defenses/Special Teams
While most fantasy football owners focus on drafting offensive players, it's important to not forget about team defenses and special teams. These units can be a valuable source of points and can help you win games.
Here are some things to look for when drafting team defenses and special teams:
- Defensive strength. Look for defenses that are strong against the pass and the run. Pay attention to statistics such as points allowed, yards allowed, and turnovers forced.
- Favorable schedule. Some defenses have easier schedules than others. Look for defenses that play against weaker offenses and have a favorable home-field advantage.
- Special teams play. Special teams can be a major source of points in fantasy football. Look for defenses that have good kick and punt returners and that are able to block kicks.
- Consistency. Consistency is key when it comes to team defenses and special teams. Look for units that have been performing well throughout the season and that are not prone to giving up big plays.
By targeting team defenses and special teams that have these qualities, you can help ensure that your fantasy team scores points and wins games.
In addition to the above, it's also important to consider the impact of bye weeks when drafting team defenses and special teams. Bye weeks are weeks when a team does not play, so you will not be able to score points with that team's defense or special teams. Try to avoid drafting defenses and special teams that have bye weeks during important weeks of the fantasy football season.
Research and Consider Sleepers and Breakout Candidates
One of the most exciting parts of fantasy football is finding sleepers and breakout candidates. These are players who are undervalued by the majority of fantasy owners but have the potential to have a big impact on your team.
Here are some tips for finding sleepers and breakout candidates:
- Do your research. The best way to find sleepers and breakout candidates is to do your research. Read fantasy football articles, listen to podcasts, and watch highlights of players. Pay attention to players who are having good preseasons or who are in situations where they could have a big role in their offense.
- Look for players with upside. When looking for sleepers and breakout candidates, focus on players with upside. These are players who have the potential to be much better than their current ADP (average draft position). Look for players who have good athleticism, good production in college, or who are in a good situation in their NFL offense.
- Be willing to take risks. Finding sleepers and breakout candidates requires you to be willing to take some risks. Don't be afraid to draft players who are ranked lower than you think they should be. If you do your research and believe in a player, don't be afraid to take a chance on them.
- Don't overpay. Just because a player is a sleeper or breakout candidate doesn't mean you should overpay for them. Be disciplined and only draft players at a value that you're comfortable with.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding sleepers and breakout candidates who can help you win your fantasy football league.
Some examples of sleepers and breakout candidates for the 2023 fantasy football season include:
- Quarterback: Justin Fields, Chicago Bears
- Running back: Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks
- Wide receiver: Christian Watson, Green Bay Packers
- Tight end: Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals
- Defense: New York Jets
Stay Informed with Up-to-Date Player News and Injuries
Fantasy football is a fluid game, and things can change quickly. Players can get injured, suspended, or traded. It's important to stay informed with up-to-date player news and injuries so that you can make informed decisions about your fantasy team.
- Follow fantasy football news and analysis. There are many great fantasy football news and analysis outlets available. Follow these outlets on social media, read their articles, and listen to their podcasts to stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends.
- Monitor player injury reports. Player injuries are one of the biggest factors that can affect your fantasy team. Monitor player injury reports throughout the week to see who is injured and who is expected to play.
- Be prepared to make roster moves. If a player on your team gets injured or is ruled out for a game, you will need to make a roster move. Be prepared to drop that player and add a new player who is available on the waiver wire.
- Don't panic. Injuries and other setbacks are a part of fantasy football. Don't panic if one of your players gets injured. Stay calm and make informed decisions about your team.
By staying informed with up-to-date player news and injuries, you can make better decisions about your fantasy team and increase your chances of winning your league.
Monitor Bye Weeks and Roster Management
Bye weeks are weeks when a team does not play. This means that you will not be able to score points with any players on that team during their bye week. It's important to monitor bye weeks and manage your roster accordingly.
Here are some tips for monitoring bye weeks and managing your roster:
- Identify your players' bye weeks. Before the season starts, identify the bye weeks for all of your players. This will help you plan ahead and make sure that you have enough players available each week.
- Stream players during bye weeks. One way to deal with bye weeks is to stream players. Streaming is the process of adding and dropping players on a weekly basis to fill holes in your lineup. You can stream players from teams that are not on bye in a given week.
- Trade players before their bye weeks. If you have a player who is on a bye in a key week, you can try to trade that player to another owner who does not have a bye in that week. This will allow you to free up a roster spot and add a player who can help you score points.
- Be flexible. The key to managing bye weeks is to be flexible. Be prepared to make roster moves and adjust your lineup each week based on the bye weeks of your players.
By monitoring bye weeks and managing your roster accordingly, you can minimize the impact of bye weeks on your fantasy team and increase your chances of winning your league.
Here are some additional tips for roster management:
- Keep an eye on the waiver wire. The waiver wire is a list of players who are available to be added to your team. Monitor the waiver wire throughout the week and add any players who you think can help your team.
- Don't be afraid to drop players. If you have a player who is not performing well or who is injured, don't be afraid to drop that player and add a new player who can help you score points.
- Stay active. Fantasy football is a dynamic game. Things can change quickly. Stay active and make roster moves as needed to keep your team competitive.
Stay Flexible and Adapt to Changing Circumstances
Fantasy football is a fluid game, and things can change quickly. Players can get injured, suspended, or traded. Teams can change their offensive schemes or their coaching staffs. The NFL landscape can change dramatically from week to week.
It's important to stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances in order to be successful in fantasy football. Here are some tips for staying flexible and adapting to changing circumstances:
- Be prepared to make roster moves. As mentioned in the previous section, you need to be prepared to make roster moves throughout the season. This includes adding and dropping players, trading players, and streaming players.
- Be willing to change your lineup. Your lineup should not be set in stone. You need to be willing to change your lineup each week based on the matchups, the injuries, and the bye weeks of your players.
- Don't be afraid to take risks. Sometimes, you need to take risks in order to win in fantasy football. This could mean starting a player who is a boom-or-bust player or trading away a player who is safe but not exciting.
- Trust your gut. Ultimately, you need to trust your gut when making decisions in fantasy football. If you have a feeling that a player is going to have a big game, start him. If you think a team is going to have a good week, stream a player from that team.
By staying flexible and adapting to changing circumstances, you can increase your chances of winning your fantasy football league.
Here are some additional tips for staying flexible and adapting to changing circumstances:
- Stay informed. The best way to stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances is to stay informed. Read fantasy football news and analysis, listen to podcasts, and watch highlights of players. This will help you stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends and make better decisions about your team.
- Be patient. Fantasy football is a marathon, not a sprint. Don't get discouraged if you lose a few games early on. Stay patient and make smart decisions throughout the season. Eventually, your hard work will pay off.
- Have fun! Fantasy football is a game. It's supposed to be fun. Don't take it too seriously. Enjoy the competition and the camaraderie with your friends and family.
FAQ
Have more questions about who to draft in fantasy football? Check out these frequently asked questions:
Question 1: Who should I draft first overall?
Answer: The best player available. This could be a running back, wide receiver, or quarterback. It depends on the players who are available and your personal preferences.
Question 2: What is a good draft strategy?
Answer: There are many different draft strategies that you can use. Some popular strategies include zero-RB, hero RB, and best player available. Do your research and find a strategy that works for you.
Question 3: Who are some sleepers and breakout candidates for this year?
Answer: There are many sleepers and breakout candidates for this year. Some popular choices include Christian Watson, Trey McBride, and Kenneth Walker III. Do your research and find some sleepers and breakout candidates who you think can help your team.
Question 4: How do I handle bye weeks?
Answer: Bye weeks can be a challenge, but there are a few things you can do to handle them. You can stream players, trade players, or simply bench players who are on bye. Be flexible and adapt to the bye weeks of your players.
Question 5: What are some tips for winning my fantasy football league?
Answer: There are many tips that can help you win your fantasy football league. Some popular tips include staying active, staying informed, and being flexible. Do your research, make smart decisions, and have fun.
Question 6: Where can I find more fantasy football advice?
Answer: There are many great resources available for fantasy football advice. You can find advice from experts on websites, podcasts, and social media. Do your research and find some experts who you trust.
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These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about who to draft in fantasy football. If you have any other questions, be sure to do your research or ask an expert for help.
Now that you know who to draft in fantasy football, it's time to start drafting your team. Be sure to follow these tips and you'll be well on your way to winning your league.
Tips
Here are some practical tips to help you draft a winning fantasy football team:
Tip 1: Do your research.
The key to drafting a winning fantasy football team is to do your research. This means reading fantasy football news and analysis, listening to podcasts, and watching highlights of players. The more you know about the players, the better equipped you'll be to make informed decisions on draft day.
Tip 2: Be flexible.
Fantasy football is a fluid game, and things can change quickly. Players can get injured, suspended, or traded. Teams can change their offensive schemes or their coaching staffs. The NFL landscape can change dramatically from week to week.
You need to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances in order to be successful in fantasy football. This means being prepared to make roster moves, change your lineup, and take risks.
Tip 3: Trust your gut.
Ultimately, you need to trust your gut when making decisions in fantasy football. If you have a feeling that a player is going to have a big game, start him. If you think a team is going to have a good week, stream a player from that team.
Don't be afraid to go against the grain and make your own decisions. Sometimes, the best players to draft are the ones that other people are overlooking.
Tip 4: Have fun!
Fantasy football is a game. It's supposed to be fun. Don't take it too seriously. Enjoy the competition and the camaraderie with your friends and family.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the experience.
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By following these tips, you can increase your chances of drafting a winning fantasy football team. So do your research, be flexible, trust your gut, and have fun.
Now that you know who to draft and how to draft a winning team, it's time to put your knowledge to the test. Good luck in your fantasy football draft!
Conclusion
In this article, we've discussed who to draft in fantasy football. We've covered a variety of topics, including:
- Prioritizing high-powered offenses
- Targeting consistent running backs
- Drafting wide receivers who are playmakers
- Selecting tight ends who offer stability and upside
- Drafting quarterbacks with dual-threat ability
- Not forgetting about team defenses/special teams
- Researching and considering sleepers and breakout candidates
- Staying informed with up-to-date player news and injuries
- Monitoring bye weeks and managing your roster
- Staying flexible and adapting to changing circumstances
By following the advice in this article, you can increase your chances of drafting a winning fantasy football team. Remember to do your research, be flexible, trust your gut, and have fun.
Closing Message:
Fantasy football is a great way to enjoy the NFL season with your friends and family. It's a challenging game, but it's also a lot of fun. So put your knowledge to the test and see if you can draft a championship-caliber team. Good luck!