The fantasy football draft - a crucial event that can make or break your chances of claiming the championship title. As the season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts, eager to assemble a team that will bring them victory. To help you achieve championship success, we’ve put together seven expert fantasy football draft tips that will give you a competitive edge.
Understanding the Importance of Draft Position
Your draft position plays a significant role in determining the quality of players you’ll be able to select. A top draft pick gives you access to the elite players, while a later pick forces you to dig deeper into the talent pool. To maximize your chances of success, it’s essential to understand the strengths and weaknesses of different draft positions.
According to data from the last five NFL seasons, the top three picks in fantasy football drafts have averaged a whopping 245.6 fantasy points per season, compared to just 185.2 for players selected between picks 10-15.
This disparity highlights the importance of securing a top draft pick. If you’re stuck with a lower pick, don’t worry - our subsequent tips will help you navigate the challenges that come with it.
1. Focus on Consistency Over Upside
When evaluating players, it’s tempting to get caught up in the excitement of high-upside picks. However, consistency is often a more reliable indicator of fantasy success. Players who consistently perform at a high level, even if they’re not the flashiest, tend to be more valuable than those who are prone to boom-or-bust games.
Consider the case of Christian McCaffrey, who has averaged 22.1 fantasy points per game over the past three seasons. While he may not have the same ceiling as some of the more explosive running backs, his consistency makes him a reliable fantasy asset.
2. Build a Strong Running Back Core
Running backs are the lifeblood of any fantasy football team. A strong RB core can provide a solid foundation for your squad, and we’ve seen time and time again that top RBs can carry teams to victory. When drafting, prioritize running backs with a high floor and a proven track record of performance.
| Rank | Player | Average Fantasy Points (2020-2022) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Christian McCaffrey | 22.1 |
| 2 | Alvin Kamara | 20.8 |
| 3 | Saquon Barkley | 20.5 |
3. Don’t Reach for Quarterbacks Too Early
Quarterbacks are essential to fantasy football success, but they’re not as scarce as you might think. In fact, the difference in fantasy production between the top QB and the QB10 is often relatively small. As such, it’s generally advisable to wait until the mid-rounds to draft a quarterback.
Pros of Drafting a QB Early:
- Securing a top-tier QB with a high ceiling
- Potential for elite fantasy production
Cons of Drafting a QB Early:
- Reaching for a QB too early, potentially sacrificing depth at other positions
- Overpaying for a QB who may not significantly outperform others at the position
4. Wide Receiver Depth is Key
Injuries are an unfortunate reality in the NFL, and having a deep bench of wide receivers can help you weather the storm. When drafting, prioritize WRs with a high floor and a strong track record of performance. Aim to build a WR corps with a mix of established stars and sleepers who have the potential to breakout.
5. Pay Attention to ADP
Average Draft Position (ADP) is a valuable tool for fantasy football enthusiasts. It gives you insight into how players are being valued in drafts, allowing you to identify potential sleepers and avoid reaching for players who are being overdrafted.
How to Use ADP Effectively:
- Research ADP data from multiple sources to get a comprehensive understanding of player values.
- Identify players who are being underdrafted or overdrafted relative to their ADP.
- Adjust your draft strategy accordingly, targeting undervalued players and avoiding overvalued ones.
6. Be Prepared to Adapt
No matter how well you prepare for your draft, things won’t always go according to plan. Injuries, trades, and other unexpected events can impact player values and force you to adjust your strategy on the fly. Stay flexible and be prepared to pivot when necessary.
7. Don’t Forget About Your Bench
Your bench is often the unsung hero of your fantasy football team. A strong bench can provide the depth you need to overcome injuries and other challenges. When drafting, don’t neglect your bench - prioritize players who can provide a boost when called upon.
By focusing on consistency, building a strong RB core, and being prepared to adapt, you'll be well on your way to assembling a championship-caliber fantasy football team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to determine a player’s consistency?
+To determine a player’s consistency, look at their fantasy point averages over the past few seasons, as well as their game logs. Players who consistently perform at a high level, even if they’re not the flashiest, tend to be more valuable than those who are prone to boom-or-bust games.
How important is ADP when drafting?
+ADP is a valuable tool for fantasy football enthusiasts. It gives you insight into how players are being valued in drafts, allowing you to identify potential sleepers and avoid reaching for players who are being overdrafted.
What’s the ideal strategy for drafting a quarterback?
+The ideal strategy for drafting a quarterback is to wait until the mid-rounds. This allows you to focus on other positions, such as running back and wide receiver, while still securing a quality QB.
How can I build a strong bench?
+To build a strong bench, prioritize players who can provide a boost when called upon. Look for sleepers with high upside, as well as players who have a strong track record of performance.
