fantasy football strategy – Syndication Server

Fantasy Football Market Report: Week 5

The latest risers and fallers to know in fantasy football ahead of Week 5.

At the start of the season, there were doubts that, aside from Cooper Kupp, anyone was going to be overly interested in Los Angeles Rams players. A month later, much has changed.

Matthew Stafford has topped 300 passing yards in three of four games, and he has legitimate value if his touchdown numbers come up.

Rookie Puka Nacua is the talk of the NFL, catching 39 passes for 501 yards and one touchdown. Tutu Atwell has been strong, catching 22 passes for 270 yards and a touchdown. The Rams traded starting running back Cam Akers and replaced him with Kyren Williams. He has rushed 64 times for 245 yards, caught 11 passes for 101 yards, and scored six touchdowns. Even kicker Brett Maher has become must-have, posting weekly point totals of 12, 11, 10 and 11.

In most leagues, all five of these Rams were available on the waiver wire prior to Week 1. Now, it’s hard to imagine not having all of them in weekly starting lineups … or at least stashed so others can’t have them.

First 3 Picks: 10-team league

Your first three picks define your fantasy team.

The first three picks define your team and set up the rest of your draft. The optimal team is built by understanding the nuances of a scoring system and how it fits into your league rules.

A 10-team league means positional quality lasts longer. Everyone has a “good” team, so you need less depth and more difference-makers.

To follow are sample three-round drafts for 10-team fantasy football leagues. They use either standard performance scoring, performance plus a point per reception, or “2QB/Super Flex” leagues where you can start two of any position. Those three formats cover almost all leagues.

The names are less important than the positions because each draft slot has its own unique situation. Just as important are your future picks and what you need after three rounds. Rankings can change daily so these may not exactly match rankings.

Performance scoring league

Performance scoring without reception points means that running backs are at a premium, and quarterbacks are a bit more valuable. Wide receivers and tight ends are devalued but are still usually four starters in a fantasy football league. Most teams will look to get two running backs in their first three picks, and it’s hard to argue against that logic.

Unlike other scoring formats that offer greater parity in fantasy scoring between positions, this one still covets running backs. There could be up to 18 or 20 backs taken over the first three rounds even in this smaller league size.

Team 1: RB Christian McCaffrey, QB Jalen Hurts, WR Tyreek Hill
Top running back counts huge in this format but thirteen are gone by the 2.12 so tabbed the Top-3 QB1 Hurts and still reached the fourth-best wideout for a nice advantage even without a reception point. Doubling up on running backs has to be considered next or the team backfield will ride too heavily on just what McCaffrey does – and drop badly if he is injured.
Team 2: RB Austin Ekeler, WR A.J. Brown, WR Davante Adams
Not unlike Team 1, Opened with RB1 Ekeler and then opted to double on wideouts for two of the Top-5. Not as great without a reception point, but still an advantage. And also needs to consider running backs heavily for at least two of next three rounds.
Team 3: RB Bijan Robinson, RB Aaron Jones, RB Miles Sanders
Strength of the team is the backfield to be sure, but will miss out on difference-makers in any other position. Given the scoring format, next pick should consider the highest-scoring available QB1 and then just accept that the wideouts and tight end are not going to be any advantage and may be a liability.
Team 4: RB Nick Chubb, QB Josh Allen, RB Joe Mixon
Solid start with the fourth running back selected and then adding QB1 Allen for an advantage. Found RB2 Mixon in the third instead of a wideout like Cooper Kupp which offers a solid base for their backfield but has to consider wideouts in two of the next three rounds before that quality drops too far to not be a problem. This is a very safe start and a likely contender.
Team 5: RB Derrick Henry, RB R. Stevenson, WR Cooper Kupp
Double downed on RB1 Henry and RB2 Stevenson who round out the positional Top-12. Opted for a minor advantage with WR1 Kupp which means should look at quarterback next. Solid running backs allows them to cherry pick if anyone falls but the main aim is to make a balanced team.
Team 6: WR Justin Jefferson, RB Josh Jacobs, RB Jahmyr Gibbs
Rather than just follow the run on running backs, zagged to take WR1 Jefferson and then doubled on running backs with RB1 Jacobs and RB2 Gibbs. There is plenty of upside with those backs, but also risk until the season starts and team can know exactly what they have for a backfield. But probably should consider a third running back earlier than later just for insurance. Quarterback is a reasonable fourth-round consideration.
Team 7: RB Saquon Barkley, QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Breece Hall
Barkley falls without reception points but still prevents any liability with their RB1. Tabbing QB1 Mahomes could make this team with firepower in the highest scoring position. Opted for RB2 Hall as the seventeenth back taken which was a safe move but risky all the same given his return from knee surgery. Wideouts need to show up soon but also need a decent third running back just to cover the “what if” from Hall.
Team 8: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Travis Etienne, RB David Montgomery
Here’s a standard and effective start from this slot. Grabbed WR1 Chase for a solid advantage in the position and then felt obligated to double down with RB1 Etienne and RB2 Montgomery who feels a bit weak given the committee backfield in Detroit. Could have gone with Stefon Diggs and likely not sacrificed much taking RB2 with the 4.03 in five picks. But at least Chase counts as more than just one wideout with his potential.
Team 9: RB Jonathan Taylor, RB Najee Harris, WR Stefon Diggs
Drafting this late made RB-RB as a safe move and does own two Top-10 running backs with RB1 Taylor and RB2 Harris. WR1 Diggs best pick at the 3.09 to grab a consistent wideout and still could reach a Top-5 quarterback next. This is a standard plan that may not spark great optimism but doesn’t feel bad either. Can look at non-RB for the next three rounds though RB3 shouldn’t wait any longer than that.
Team 10: TE Travis Kelce, RB Tony Pollard, WR CeeDee Lamb
Drafting at the end always means looking for best value while everything gets wiped out in front of the pick. Starting out with TE1 Kelce is an advantage, less in this format, and will make all other positions wait an extra round to get any attention. Taking RB1 Pollard with the 2.01 was prudent to avoid a glaring hole at running back that would be very hard to compensate. WR1 Lamb as the 3.12 is solid but has to use the 4.01 on running back.

Reception-point league

This style of scoring boosts the value of wide receivers and elite tight ends and slightly devalues quarterbacks relative to other positions. Running backs are popular in any scoring scenario but the added reception point means the position becomes deeper with third-down backs able to offer “start-able” fantasy value. The consistency of an above-average running back is also a very valuable contributor to the weekly fantasy score.

With a reception point and only ten teams, your roster should look very strong after three picks. All positions are deep in this format so think about “star power.”

Team 1: WR Justin Jefferson, RB Aaron Jones, QB Josh Allen
Early picks work out well in this format, more so than others. Start out with WR1 Jefferson for a great advantage, then still reached the tenth-best running back to prevent any holes in the position and still added the second-best quarterback. The quality will be lower on everything by the 4.10, but this starts out with a top wideout and quarterback, plus a decent RB1.
Team 2: RB Christian McCaffrey, RB Najee Harris, WR A. St. Brown
Opted for the best RB1 with McCaffrey and then used the back-end picks at 2.09 and 3.02 to double down with RB2 Najee Harris and only managed WR1 St. Brown as the ninth wideout. This format will raid the position harder than any other, but by the 4.09 pick there won’t be any top-tier players left. This is a safe start, but doesn’t do as much to obtain any advantages in any position other than the McCaffrey start.
Team 3: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Jonathan Taylor, TE Mark Andrews
Nice value play that can work in this format. Opened with WR1 Chase and then grabbed RB1 Taylor as the eighth back taken – could have been Najee Harris or Aaron Jones given the current questions surrounding Taylor. Went with TE1 Andrews in the third for an advantage in two positions. Can go anywhere with the next picks though it will be alternating running backs and wideouts other than seeding a QB1 where the best value lies.
Team 4: RB Austin Ekeler, QB Patrick Mahomes, WR Garrett Wilson
This plan is effective allowing RB1 Ekeler, grabs the top QB1 Mahomes and then still reaches WR1 Wilson as the tenth-best wideout. Now just consider wideout and running back for the next three or four rounds for a solid start.
Team 5: RB Saquon Barkley, WR CeeDee Lamb, WR Jaylen Waddle
Opted for RB1 Barkley as a Top-3 running back and then double downed with WR1 Lamb and WR2 Waddle. Great start considering the scoring format and allows the team to ignore wideout for three rounds or so since they only need a WR3 and can load up on running backs before their quality experiences that steep decline after Round 6.
Team 6: WR Tyreek Hill, WR Davante Adams, QB Jalen Hurts
Middle slots are always tough since so many players are taken on either side of every pick. Opened with WR1 Hill and then nabbed WR2 Adams for two of the Top-7 wideouts in a reception point league. Then still reached QB1 Hurts for a Top-3 at quarterback. Obviously has to mine running backs for at least two of the next three rounds, and maybe all three.
Team 7: TE Travis Kelce, RB Derrick Henry, RB Travis Etienne
Mr. 7th pick is TE1 Kelce who is most commonly taken right after the Top-3 wideouts and running backs are gone. Huge positional advantage but setting back all other positions by a round, it led to tabbing RB1 Henry and RB2 Etienne to feel safe. Wideouts are the deepest position and has to consider at least three of the next five picks for the position. But if you have to make up ground in any single position, wideout is where it is most possible.
Team 8: WR Cooper Kupp, RB Tony Pollard, RB Josh Jacobs
Went with WR1 Kupp before doubling on RB1 Pollard and RB2 Jacobs. That sews up two Top-12 running backs and an elite WR1. Need to address tight end and quarterback soon with an eye to getting a difference-maker because the safe start will turn into a very average team if anything happens to Kupp. Can hold off on running backs for at least three rounds.
Team 9: RB Bijan Robinson, RB Nick Chubb, WR Amari Cooper
Found the exciting RB1 Robinson and opted to get RB2 Chubb since six wideouts were gone. Reached WR1 Cooper as a Top-12 choice and needs to consider another wideout with next pick in just two more turns. Top-3 quarterbacks are gone and the best two tight ends. Needs a wideout and maybe two and can still reach a very serviceable quarterback in a few rounds.
Team 10: WR Stefon Diggs, WR A.J. Brown, RB Joe Mixon
That back-end turn is always interesting. In this format, even with just ten teams, the four best wideouts and running backs are gone, plus Travis Kelce. Very common and workable taking WR1 Diggs and WR2 Brown for two of the Top-7 wideouts. That position can wait for another four rounds while running backs and a quarterback are taken. Goes next with the 4.01 which means either the fourteenth-best running back for RB2 which is likely the best choice since there could be another ten gone by their 5.12 pick.

QB-heavy/Super-Flex league

This league starts two quarterbacks. That pushes value in other positions deeper into the draft since quarterbacks take up far more of the early picks. Each 2QB or super-flex league can use different scoring and other aspects that impact player value, so consider the nuances of your league.

This assumes super-flex, where the option to start a second quarterback in a flex position exists. Some leagues may see six or seven quarterbacks in the first round and five or six more in the second round.

It is also assumed that there are reception points. That is by far the most common in that type of league. It is also notable that a team can win without automatically starting two quarterbacks, even when allowed. Virtually no one drafts with that in mind.

In a smaller 10-team league with additional valuable players from the quarterback boost, almost every fantasy team looks great so taking elite players is paramount to winning – get your starters before worrying about depth.

Team 1: QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Bijan Robinson, WR Stefon Diggs
No question who that first pick is. QB1 Mahomes (occasionally Josh Allen) is the most coveted player in this format but picking first meant that eleven quarterbacks were gone by the 2.10. But top values still there for RB1 Robinson and WR1 Diggs. It’s a solid start with firepower. Next pick at 4.10 should evaluate what is left at quarterback and decide if not starting a second quarterback may make most sense. Balanced opening allows cherry picking best values.
Team 2: QB Josh Allen, RB Saquon Barkley, RB Nick Chubb
Opened with QB1 Allen and like Team 1 noticed the quarterback shelves had been deeply raided and opted to assemble a very strong backfield with RB1 Barkley and RB2 Chubb for two of the Top-5 backs. Even in this smaller sized league, has to consider wideout for at least two of the next three picks and maybe all three. Solid backfield can let RB3 wait but wideout and tight end are trending to be weak.
Team 3: RB Christian McCaffrey, WR Cooper Kupp, QB Jared Goff
This year, Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes are almost always the Top-2 quarterbacks, with Jalen Hurts coming in a very strong third. Hurts would be a fine pick here as well, but opted for RB1 McCaffrey. That left the 2.08 pick already 11 deep in missing quarterbacks. So snapped up WR1 Kupp as the fourth-best wideout and then finally went with QB1 Goff without any real cost since no other quarterbacks were taken behind him. Can accept that two quarterbacks will not start and raid wideout or running back next. The next round quarterback will likely come with plenty of question marks.
Team 4: QB Jalen Hurts, QB Deshaun Watson, RB Tony Pollard
This plan is a safe approach with decent results. QB1 Hurts is a great pick and then QB2 Watson carries upside at least as the eleventh quarterback taken. Opted for RB1 Pollard over the sixth wideout (A.J. Brown or Davante Adams likely). Common approach should work but has to shuffle back and forth between running backs and wideouts for at least the next five or six rounds.
Team 5: WR Justin Jefferson, QB Dak Prescott, WR A.J. Brown
The use of reception points makes this work – it would not if it were just performance scoring. Opened with WR1 Jefferson for a distinct advantage and then still reached QB1 Prescott at the 2.06 pick. Doubled on wideouts with WR2 Brown. Leave the wideouts alone for at least four or five rounds and work on running backs while keeping an eye on when to still reach a QB2 before there is no value there. Can compete in this scoring format with that start, but even getting a bye-week cover at QB2 cannot wait long.
Team 6: QB Joe Burrow, WR Tyreek Hill, QB Russell Wilson
Middle of the draft but still opened with QB1 Burrow and then third-best wideout of WR1 Hill for an advantage. QB2 Wilson is a steal if he returns to form but risky with the chance that his 2022 performance shows up again. But this start leaves the team with a solid start and can raid running backs for the next two rounds before thinking of more wideouts.
Team 7: QB Lamar Jackson, TE Travis Kelce, WR Davante Adams
Have to like how this unfolds. Reached QB1 Jackson which felt good, and then TE1 Kelce for a big advantage at a small position. Then WR1 Adams as a Top-8 wideout. The next pick (just six turns away) can look at a QB2, but two running backs are in order in the next three rounds. The reception point helps this to make sense.
Team 8: QB Trevor Lawrence, QB Justin Fields, RB Derrick Henry
With a super flex and a reception point, high-value players exist much deeper in drafts and allow for end-of-the-round teams to actually gain an advantage. QB1 Lawrence and QB2 Fields wrap up two Top-8 quarterbacks to take advantage of the starting rules, and then still found RB1 Derrick Henry at the 3.08 pick. Solid start that goes again in four turns and can either balance with a wideout or solidify a good backfield with another running back.
Team 9: WR Ja’Marr Chase, QB Kirk Cousins, RB Jonathan Taylor
The question the next-to-last pick has to ask is which player can I live without. Going with WR2 Chase is a strong play and then still found QB1 Kirk Cousins there at his 2.02. The positions were drained by the 3.09 but went with RB1 Taylor to start the backfield and goes again in two picks where they decide if they want a running back or a wideout. That question will persist for the next several rounds.
Team 10: RB Austin Ekeler, QB Justin Herbert, WR CeeDee Lamb
Hard to imagine, but in this format the second-best running back can still be there at the 1.10 and RB1 Ekeler made sense. QB1 Herbert was an obvious pick knowing that their 3.10 pick will be looking at the scraps at quarterback. Went with WR1 Lamb for a balanced start that opens up all positions for best value over the next four rounds or more.

First 3 Picks: 12-team league

Your first three picks define your fantasy team.

Your first three picks define your fantasy football team. Each one is critical because the player pool is ever-shrinking, and you have to select a mixture of available players to produce an optimal team. And those initial rounds determine what you’ll do in the later rounds of the draft. Get them wrong, and you may not be able to recover.

To follow are sample three-round drafts for 12-team fantasy football leagues. They use either standard performance scoring, performance plus a point per reception, or “2QB/Super Flex” leagues where you can start two of any position. Those three formats cover virtually all leagues.

The names are less important than the positions because each draft slot has its own unique situation. Just as important are your future picks and what you still need after three rounds. Rankings change daily, so these may not exactly match site rankings. Pay the most attention to the positions and how they work together for an optimal start.

Performance scoring league

Performance scoring without reception points means that top running backs are a premium, and quarterbacks are comparatively more valuable. Wide receivers and tight ends are devalued but still total four starters in most fantasy football leagues. Most teams take two running backs over their first three picks and it’s hard to argue against the logic because the supply is very low by Round 4.

The above three rounds are an optimal way to start the draft for all twelve draft slots. Let’s consider where each should be looking next after the three-pick start:

Team 1: RB Christian McCaffrey, WR Stefon Diggs, QB Josh Allen
First pick gets that great top running back, but then 15 are gone by the second pick. Scooped up a Top-3 quarterback and wideout for a great start but has to spend on running backs probably in both Rounds 4 and 5. Rather than follow the run on depleted running backs, tried to gather highly rated starters though the bang for the buck is lower with no reception points.
Team 2: RB Austin Ekeler, RB Jahmyr Gibbs, WR CeeDee Lamb
Plenty of upside on Gibbs, and then opted for the best wideout. Fairly standard opening and owning Ekeler will be an absolute advantage with reception points. Threw away the chance to start two quarterbacks with WR1 of Lamb and needs to address QB1 next just to have a suitable starter from a position that drains quickly. This is the start that ends up taking rookie quarterbacks and others that have a less clear path to starting every week. It is possible to get lucky, but pretty much every other team is hunting for quarterback scraps as well.
Team 3: RB Bijan Robinson, WR Cooper Kupp, RB Breece Hall
Hard to pass by Kupp in the second round with running backs draining fast and leaving a riskier Breece Hall in the third round. That’ll work out better later in the year when Hall should be back to form but means getting another running back soon is in order just in case Hall is slower to return. But a safe start that opens up best available players from all positions.
Team 4: RB Nick Chubb, RB Joe Mixon, RB David Montgomery
This plan feels great so far loading up on running backs but that means there will be minimal advantage left in any other position and if either Chubb or Mixon was to miss time, it ensures the entire team takes a step down without stars in other positions to compensate.
Team 5: RB Derrick Henry, WR Davante Adams, WR Jaylen Waddle
Mid-draft is always a challenge to avoid building an average team. Opting for two wideouts does offer value in those positions, but realistically team must raid running backs for whatever is left for a few rounds and keep an eye out for when to seed in a quarterback.
Team 6: RB Saquon Barkley, WR Tyreek Hill, RB Isiah Pacheco
Similar to Team 5, only opted for running back in the third round with Pacheco. Solid start, nothing flashy in this format, but reaching Pacheco quality in the third was likely lucky. Now situated to take best available for the next couple of round from any position. May be heading toward being an average team.
Team 7: RB Jonathan Taylor, RB Miles Sanders, WR Amari Cooper
Definitely a safe start and could work out, assuming a healthy and happy Taylor eventually agrees to play and Sanders makes the transition to Carolina. Cooper avoids a weak WR1 just in time. Free to go anywhere that value lies with this core.
Team 8: WR Justin Jefferson, QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Ken Walker
Hard not to like the best wideout and quarterback on the same team, but the scoring doesn’t make it as advantageous and picking Walker in the third was a need, along with probably the next two rounds hunting for running backs.
Team 9: RB Tony Pollard, WR A.J. Brown, RB Rachaad White
Started with Pollard since the next three teams could have totaled six more running backs and still ended up with Brown for a solid WR1. The White pick is strong enough that the fourth round can consider any position but a running back needs to be taken in the next two rounds.
Team 10: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Aaron Jones, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown
The loss of reception points in this format makes these wideouts possible, but with lesser impact. But starts out with potentially two Top-10 wideouts and a solid pick for running back. Doesn’t have to consider wideouts for four or more rounds and can raid more running backs along with a quarterback thrown in.
Team 11: TE Travis Kelce, RB Rhamondre Stevenson, QB Jalen Hurts
Kelce may offer less without the reception points, but he is still a big advantage at the otherwise lowest-scoring position in this format. Still was able to reach the No. 3 quarterback for a nice job of seeking advantages where possible in this late-round spot. Probably use the next six or eight rounds to just gather wideouts and more running backs.
Team 12: RB Travis Etienne, RB Josh Jacobs, WR Garrett Wilson
Picking last without reception points means nothing feels great, especially with Kelce and the Top-2 wideout gone. Doubling down on RB1 and RB2 is a safe play for an average team, but at least owns the best RB2 in the league and has an upside wideout in the third. Will need to swing for the fence in search of a sleeper to upgrade the firepower.

Reception-point league

This scoring style boosts the value of wide receivers and elite tight ends but devalues quarterbacks. Running backs are popular in any scoring scenario, but the added reception point means the position becomes deeper with third-down backs able to offer “start-able” fantasy value.

Wideouts are drafted faster than recent years, and there are so many question marks at running backs that there are reasonable risks out until the sixth round or later. Top-3 quarterbacks and tight ends are often gone by the third round, no later than the fourth in most PPR leagues.

Team 1: WR Justin Jefferson, WR Jaylen Waddle, TE Mark Andrews
Certainly a strong start in a reception-point league. The best WR1 in the league adds the eleventh wideout drafted for maybe the top set of two wideouts in the league. Adding Andrews sews up that advantage at tight end but also means the RB1- which needs to come next – may only be the 20th-best running back. At least make running back the next two picks or plan on getting lucky with a sleeper since running backs still offer the most consistent points.
Team 2: RB Christian McCaffrey, QB Josh Allen, RB Travis Etienne
This start feels very safe, even if it doesn’t pay homage to the reception point. The backfield is set by Round 3, and adding the No. 2 quarterback is a big advantage at the highest-scoring position. Next four rounds have to consider wideouts and maybe a tight end.
Team 3: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Aaron Jones, WR Amari Cooper
Standard sort of start with elite Chase for WR1 and then filling RB1 with the tenth back drafted. Cooper at WR2 means the position can wait without much harm while getting another running back and a quarterback, possibly a tight end if the value is there.
Team 4: RB Austin Ekeler, WR Garrett Wilson, WR DeVonta Smith
Strong start with an elite running back and then doubled on wideouts for plenty of reception points every week. Has to consider running back next before the position becomes risky. Can hold off on WR3 for a while addressing the other positions. Ekeler strong enough that it’s okay to accept some risk on RB2.
Team 5: RB Saquon Barkley, QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Josh Jacobs
Barkley nails down the RB1 and Jacobs made for a risky RB2 but with potential great upside. Wedging in Mahomes is an advantage at the highest-scoring position but now has to respect those reception points that were ignored and mine wideouts and an eventual tight end for maybe all of the first half of the draft.
Team 6: WR Tyreek Hill, RB Najee Harris, WR Chris Olave
Started with a Top-3 wideout and then still reached the ninth running back taken for a balanced start. Added upside Olave for WR2 so should throw more wideouts on the back burner at least until securing a couple of running backs and a quarterback. Solid start at the middle of the round and should watch out for any players that fall.
Team 7: TE Travis Kelce, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, QB Jalen Hurts
Kelce is the natural No. 7 once the top running backs and wideouts are missing. Middle teams can easily end up average but this start yielded the top tight end, a decent WR1 to prevent a liability, and then just managed to land a Top-3 quarterback. The next six to eight rounds have to be alternating running backs and wideouts, with running backs at least next round if not two.
Team 8: WR Cooper Kupp, RB Jonathan Taylor, WR Drake London
Tough spot since Top-3 running backs and wideouts are gone, along with the only tight end guarantees an advantage. Opted to start WR-RB-WR with a solid effect. Kupp is a lock to be a pass sponge and London offers upside. The Taylor pick is risky and yet high upside – something that middle-round teams have to consider to create some advantage at a position while following runs on most all positions.
Team 9: RB Bijan Robinson, WR CeeDee Lamb, WR DK Metcalf
Always a tougher spot to draft from and yet this worked out very well. Landed the hot rookie Robinson which feels great from his upside and then doubled down on wideouts for a stronger set of WR1/WR2. Can consider any position next, but has to revisit running backs at least once in the next two rounds.
Team 10: WR Stefon Diggs, RB Derrick Henry, RB Joe Mixon
Opened with wideout before the tier emptied and then opted for two running backs for a strong backfield. Needs to mine the wideouts for the next several rounds while stopping for a quarterback at some point. Upside tight end later can make up some ground.
Team 11: WR A.J. Brown, WR Davante Adams, RB R. Stevenson
Scooped two wideouts to start and in this format it makes sense. Took Stevenson as a need pick in the third round. Some advantage at WR1/WR2 and can look at any position for a round or two that offers best value. Strong start at wideout means can wait on WR3 and go for quarterback and more running backs.
Team 12: RB Nick Chubb, RB Tony Pollard, TE T.J. Hockenson
Final pick doubled down with running backs after seven wideouts and Kelce was taken – one was in order and two backs means they can ignore the position for the next three rounds or more while loading up on the wideouts and seeding in a quarterback. Hockenson offers a Top-3 tight end for an advantage in one position.

Super Flex / QB-heavy league

This assumes super-flex, where the option to start a second quarterback in a flex position exists and is used by most if not nearly all team owners. Some leagues can have eight quarterbacks in the first round and six in the second round. In others, maybe half as many. So pay attention and assume the worst when the quarterbacks start flying off the shelf. And, guaranteed, they will be heavily represented in those first two rounds.

Team 1: QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Nick Chubb, QB Jared Goff
No question where the first pick goes – only which quarterback you consider the top player. QB1 Mahomes feels very good in this format and allowed a Top-5 RB1 to fall. That third pick of QB2 Goff was the twelfth quarterback taken and while that’s probably doable in most leagues, there are others where the position is raided even harder. This start feels good but that 4.12 pick better look at wideout. It is a deep position but about to become a liability.
Team 2: QB Josh Allen, WR Davante Adams, WR CeeDee Lamb
Drafting at the early part of the first round is still an advantage, though not so much for starting two quarterbacks. QB1 Allen is a huge advantage and opting for WR1 Adams and WR2 Lamb yields two Top-8 wideouts to offer high-point consistency in a position that tends towards hot and cold weeks for most. WR3 can wait while the next four picks should consider running backs. If QB2 waits at all, they should go RB-RB next and then assess the board for quarterback and tight end.
Team 3: RB Christian McCaffrey, WR A.J. Brown, QB Russell Wilson
There are super-flex drafts that are nothing but quarterbacks for the first eight picks, but usually a few teams opt for top players in other positions and it can happen this early. The best RB1 is always a source of consistently high weekly points, and then team went for a Top-6 WR1 since eleven quarterbacks were already taken. Ended up with QB1 Wilson because waiting until the fourth round would produce a below-average QB1. If QB2 is to be a starter, then he has to happen next. But a balanced approach opens up best available opportunities.
Team 4: QB Jalen Hurts, RB Bijan Robinson, RB Tony Pollard
This start yielded a Top-3 QB1 in Hurts for a nice advantage, then doubled down with RB1 Robinson and RB2 Pollard. Backfield is set so next picks are either the QB2 or wide receivers. Could consider a Top-3 tight end, but then wideouts would become a liability unless a sleeper was landed. This start will produce solid and consistent points from those first three picks.
Team 5: WR Justin Jefferson, QB Deshaun Watson, RB Derrick Henry
Top-3 quarterbacks were gone so opted with WR1 of Jefferson and then settled on QB1 Watson. RB1 was Henry as the seventh back taken. Jefferson is the star of the team so far, but balanced start means can search for best value players regardless of position. QB2 is a need pick next round only if two quarterbacks will start and Jefferson is so strong that WR2 and WR3 can wait a little longer.
Team 6: QB Joe Burrow, WR Stefon Diggs, WR Amon-Ra St. Brown
After QB1 Burrow, opted for Top-5 WR1 Diggs and sewed up WR2 with St. Brown to give them two Top-10 wideouts. Taking a quarterback in the fourth may still reach someone worth starting but leaves running back as a liability short of landing a sleeper. Over next four rounds, at least two must be running back and likely three to address since at least two will be starters.
Team 7: QB Lamar Jackson, TE Travis Kelce, RB Jonathan Taylor
Grabbed the fifth-best quarterback for a minor advantage at QB1 and then snapped up TE1 Kelce for a nice boost even though he’ll impact all other positions even more in this format – but at least he lasts until the second round. RB1 Taylor is a risk that could pay off. But QB2 will be weaker and has to pursue wideouts in at least two of the next three rounds before they have a liability in a position that may start three players.
Team 8: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Saquon Barkley, QB Tua Tagovailoa
This draft slot is a challenge, even in this format. Five quarterbacks are gone as well as the top running back and wideout. Opted for WR1 Chase, then found the third-best running back instead of just taking the twelfth quarterback. QB1 weaker with Tagovailoa but this team opts to compete on non-quarterback value. And can go anywhere in future rounds with a solid start. If better value is in an other position, can wait two or three rounds before their QB2 and accept only one will be a starter.
Team 9: QB Trevor Lawrence, WR Cooper Kupp, WR Garrett Wilson
Another tough spot even in this format, started with great pick of Lawrence for QB1 and then respects the reception point to double on WR1/WR2 with Kupp and Wilson. This is a strong start for this spot. Wideouts can be ignored for another four rounds while they raid running backs and consider a second quarterback. This start can compete in this format.
Team 10: RB Austin Ekeler, QB Dak Prescott, WR Jaylen Waddle
Couldn’t resist RB1 of Ekeler at the 1.10 but then went with Prescott for QB1 not wanting any liability at quarterback. Balanced approach with WR1 in Waddle. There is no particular glaring need in the fourth round but should at least consider quarterback or an elite tight end to sew up the top spot for the main positions and then cherry-pick value the rest of the way.
Team 11: QB Justin Herbert, WR Tyreek Hill, RB Najee Harris
Took Herbert while the getting was still good, and the No. 3 wideout next is an advantage as well. Went for balance with RB1 in the third round and that means all positions are open for the next many rounds. Either a quarterback has to come in the fourth round or plan on not starting two of them. Which can be still effective.
Team 12: QB Kirk Cousins, QB Justin Fields, RB Aaron Jones
The beauty in super-flex leagues is that the penalty for going last in the first round is no longer as severe because mixing in all those quarterbacks extend the available quality of all non-QB positions, and while the first round may consume up to eight quarterbacks, owning both the eighth and ninth best is still an advantage from the highest-scoring position and those other positions will still have quality. Can do anything with this start.

Fantasy football draft prep: 12 common mistakes to avoid

A dozen rules fantasy footballers must follow for consistent success.

Our annual “draft prep” series mostly caters to novice players, but every once in a while a veteran player requires a refresher on basics we may take for granted.

These rules are in no particular order, and they apply to all levels of experience among fantasy owners. Just as important as the “what you should do” to create a winner in fantasy drafting, avoiding simple pitfalls is a must.

[lawrence-related id=467551]

Fantasy Football: 10 utilization stats to know from Week 2

Here are the utilization stats you should know from Week 2 of the NFL season.

We now have a two-game sample size of fantasy football data to work with from the 2022 NFL season.

It’s still a relatively small sample size, but trends are starting.

Before you make any roster cuts or waiver claims for Week 3, here are 10 utilization notes to know following Week 2.

First 3 Picks: 10-team league

Your first three picks define your fantasy team.

The first three picks define your team and set up the rest of your draft. The optimal team is built by understanding the nuances of a scoring system and how it fits into your league rules.

A 10-team league means positional quality lasts longer. Everyone has a “good” team, so you need less depth and more difference-makers.

Performance scoring league

Team 1: RB Jonathan Taylor, RB D’Andre Swift, WR Davante Adams
Standard start for no reception points. Smaller league size allows D’Andre Swift to fall to the end of the second round, which was too tempting to let slide past. Still reached the No. 5 wideout for an advantage at WR1. A strong opening allows best-available picks regardless of position. Wide receiver, running back and quarterback are all considerations for the next handful of picks.
Team 2: RB Derrick Henry, WR Deebo Samuel, RB Travis Etienne
Like Team 1, this size league allows for a strong start of two running backs and a top wideout. Hunt for best value the rest of the way.
Team 3: RB Austin Ekeler, RB Leonard Fournette, WR Stefon Diggs
Slightly deeper than Team 2, it makes more sense to double up on running backs first, then take a higher-ranked wide receiver since, by this point, the top half of starting running backs are ending. Free to take from any position that appeals the most.
Team 4: RB Christian McCaffrey, TE Travis Kelce, RB Devin Singletary
Christian McCaffrey is less valuable without reception points but looks great on the roster, along with Travis Kelce who is less valuable in this format but still an advantage all the same. Two straight wideouts should get some balance for the starters.
Team 5: RB Nick Chubb, RB Alvin Kamara, RB Aaron Jones
This isn’t as risky as it may seem. Locked up starting running backs and the flex for the strength of the roster. Better quality wideouts and a quarterback last longer in this smaller draft and better quality players in later rounds compared to a 12-team league. But the next three picks have to consider two wideouts, and probably a quarterback or the non-RB positions will be a liability.
Team 6: RB Joe Mixon, RB Saquon Barkley, WR Mike Evans
The RB-RB start mid-draft works well when a Mike Evans or CeeDee Lamb last into the middle of the third round. But starting with the No. 6 RB, then the No. 12 RB misses out on a top-tier running back and settles for a riskier Barkley who has upside to be sure, but this team becomes very average if he repeats either of the last two years. Wideouts are up next, but prudent to take that RB3 earlier than later to cover the risk of the RB2.
Team 7: RB Dalvin Cook, WR Justin Jefferson, QB Josh Allen
With running backs so valuable and going so fast, it may seem to be just following the crowd with the seventh-straight taken as the RB1. But also prudent knowing that skipping the position would have likely left no better than the No. 12 running back for a RB1 which hurts. But went with the No. 3 wideout and even snapped up the best quarterback at the 3.07 for advantages in both positions. Should consider two running backs and a wideout over the next three picks.
Team 8: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Ezekiel Elliott, WR CeeDee Lamb
Opted to finally take a non-running back and went with a top receiver in the scoring system. Has the No. 11 running back for their RB, which isn’t ideal, but ends up with two of the Top-8 wideouts for an advantage at the position. Won’t need to bother with any more wide receivers for four to six rounds and must start mining for running backs and deciding when a quarterback is their best value.
Team 9: RB Najee Harris, RB James Conner, RB Antonio Gibson
The only real advantage with this plan is a strong RB2, and the other positions will have higher quality last longer in the ten-team league. But now wide receivers are a need pick in at least two of the next three rounds and needs to land a sleeper or two in order to remain above average.
Team 10: WR Cooper Kupp, RB J. Williams, QB Patrick Mahomes
That final pick of the first round grabbed the No. 2 wideout and the No. 9 running back, knowing that leaving RB1 to the end of the third-round would mean a weak spot in the starters. Grabbing Patrick Mahomes as the second quarterback taken offers a difference-maker in a high-scoring position. The running backs won’t be the best unit in the league to be sure, but at least quarterback and wide receiver are headed by top players. Probably should alternate running back and wideouts for the next four rounds.

Reception-point league

With a reception point and only ten teams, your roster should look very strong after three picks. All positions are deep in this format.

Team 1: RB Jonathan Taylor, WR CeeDee Lamb, TE Mark Andrews
This is a good use of the first pick. Top running back, solid WR1 with upside and a top tight end. The running backs will be thinning in the fourth round but still offer up Antonio Gibson, Cam Akers, and maybe Breece Hall. Running back will be a need pick with two in the next four picks, but tight end is locked up, and high-quality wideouts remain.
Team 2: RB Austin Ekeler, RB Alvin Kamara, WR Tyreek Hill
Standard start for the No. 2 drafter and smaller rosters meant that Alvin Kamara, Saquon Barkley, James Conner and the like are still there in the fourth. Can still reach a Top-10 wideout with the third pick. A couple of wideouts and another running back make sense in the next three rounds.
Team 3: RB C. McCaffrey, RB Javonte Williams, RB James Conner
This plan feels so safe – and maybe too safe, but the higher quality later in the smaller draft means it can still work. There’s no pressing need to think about another running back for at least four to six more rounds while the core of the starters are taken.
Team 4: RB Derrick Henry, WR Mike Evans, RB Saquon Barkley
Went with the No. 4 running back, but Derrick Henry could be No. 1. Mike Evans offers a solid WR1 and still reached Saquon Barkley (or Leonard Fournette) with the third pick. That made more sense because the quality of wideout will be better at the 4.07 than would be running back. Upside start but the risk of Barkley would be best served by taking RB3 in the next couple of rounds.
Team 5: WR Cooper Kupp, WR Deebo Samuel, RB Leonard Fournette
This mid-draft plan works better in the smaller ten-team draft since it nets two Top-6 wideouts which is huge in this scoring format. And still allows for Leonard Fournette or Ezekiel Elliott at RB1. Need to consider running backs in two of the next three picks.
Team 6: RB Najee Harris, RB D’Andre Swift, RB Ezekiel Elliott
This is a workable plan like Team 3 that also went RB-RB-RB. It also looks like a drafter who is used to 12-Team drafts and are amazed at finding decent starting running backs in the third round. Mine those wideouts maybe the next three or four rounds and consider a quarterback starting in Round 7 or so.
Team 7: WR Justin Jefferson, RB Nick Chubb, WR Keenan Allen
The running backs are getting thinner, so this plan works with two top wideouts and a legitimate RB1 to start. Wide receivers can wait for several rounds while a couple more running backs are added, and the quarterback and tight end start to be taken. But the safest play remains taking two more running backs in the next two picks.
Team 8: RB Joe Mixon, WR Davante Adams, WR Michael Pittman Jr.
No different from Team 7 other than a better RB1 and a worse WR1. Has to consider running backs next and can wait on that WR3 for several rounds.
Team 9: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Dalvin Cook, RB David Montgomery
A Top-3 wideout is an advantage with reception points and then went RB-RB as a safe pick. That meant both running backs are Top-16 (so slightly above average). Not much splash after Chase was taken, but running backs are not a liability here. Should consider wide receivers mostly in the next three picks with a third running back or even a quarterback as an option.
Team 10: TE Travis Kelce, WR Stefon Diggs, RB Travis Etienne
That final pick of the first round always tries to make up ground in different ways and it is a brilliant plan rather than just following well-established runs. Top right end, top wideout, and high-upside Travis Etienne (or Breece Hall) takes a risk to make up ground. Next pick could go anywhere, but RB2 here would get Hall or Devin Singletary. About as strong as a start as the final pick can hope to create.

QB-heavy/Super-Flex league

This sort of league will seed quarterbacks in varying measures depending on how and why quarterbacks are so valuable. The most common is the ability to start two quarterbacks, which change drafts significantly.

It will extend the quality of running backs and wideouts deeper into the draft since quarterbacks fly off the shelves far earlier than usual. This sample draft assumes two quarterbacks start and that about half of the available starters are taken by the third round.

Viewing the previous year’s results are best for this sort of starting rule because quarterbacks can go slower – or much faster – than what this draft assumes. Keep up with the other picks in the league to make sure you don’t get stuck at the end of a run on quarterbacks.

Team 1: QB Josh Allen, WR Ja’Marr Chase, QB Matthew Stafford
That first pick in the draft yet again gains a benefit. Has the best quarterback and second-best wide receiver. Then still reached the No. 11 quarterback to lock up the starting quarterbacks. Has to think running backs and maybe a wide receiver over the next three or four rounds.
Team 2: RB Jonathan Taylor, QB Tom Brady, RB Dalvin Cook
Strong start for running backs and Tom Brady is a decent QB1. By the time the 4.10 rolls around, WR1 might be Amon-Ra St. Brown or Adam Thielen. But has to take two wideouts in the next three or four rounds and still think quarterback before QB2 gets too risky.
Team 3: QB Patrick Mahomes, WR Justin Jefferson, RB Nick Chubb
This team went with a safer route – started with a great QB1, then still reached the No. 3 WR. Instead of taking Russell Wilson as a QB2, went safe with the No. 8 running back for RB1. Balanced opening, that should consider quarterback and running back next, and then just best available to fill out the other starters.
Team 4: QB Justin Herbert, RB Joe Mixon, QB Russell Wilson
Starting with QB1 makes sense at the 1.04, and the doubling down at the 3.04 created one of the better tandems of quarterbacks that sandwich the No. 6 running back as the RB1. Best path is likely three straight wideouts interrupted with an RB3 before the sixth round. But this plan honors the 2QB format without sacrificing other positions much.
Team 5: RB Austin Ekeler, QB Kirk Cousins, RB D’Andre Swift
Middle of the draft starts with the No. 2 running back and still reaches Kirk Cousins for QB1. Went with D’Andre Swift for two Top-10 running backs. The backfield can be ignored for the next few rounds that have to net a couple of wide receivers and a second quarterback. Strong start with RB1 but then average for the next two picks. Middle-round drafter needs to avoid an all-average team.
Team 6: RB Christian McCaffrey, QB Jalen Hurts, WR Stefon Diggs
Have to like what this plan attempts. Christian McCaffrey is a Top-3 running back, and then a Top-8 quarterback to prevent a liability. Taking the No. 4 wideout is a solid WR4 though receivers tend to last far longer in this format. Has to consider running backs and a quarterback for the next three rounds or so, unless a wideout falls too far to ignore.
Team 7: WR Cooper Kupp, RB Najee Harris, QB Aaron Rodgers
This is what happens when a quarterback is not taken in the first two rounds. It can still work, so long as the early picks in other positions are elite performers. Certainly the top wide receiver and No. 5 running back are hot starts, but that only leaves the No. 13 quarterback as QB1. Must consider a QB2 in the next two picks which would be no better than Ryan Tannehill or Matt Ryan.
Team 8: QB Joe Burrow, RB Derrick Henry, QB Trey Lance
This looks promising. No. 4 quarterback at QB1 and the No. 4 running back for RB1. That critical third pick accessed Trey Lance in this draft for high upside and yet plenty of risk. Could have been Derek Carr or Trevor Lawrence. This is sort of a generic approach in Super Flex leagues, with that middle pick as the most enticing running back, tight end or wide receiver. The next four rounds or more have to consider either a running back or a wideout.
Team 9: TE Travis Kelce, QB Lamar Jackson, RB Javonte Williams
Started with a big advantage at tight end and still reached the No. 7 quarterback for QB1. Snapping up Javonte Williams (or Alvin Kamara or James Conner) provided a low-end at RB1 but the team also picks at the 4.02 in just two turns. Davante Adams or Deebo Samuel make a great WR1 and a very solid beginning. Wideouts and running backs should dominate the next five or six rounds.
Team 10: QB Dak Prescott, QB Kyler Murray, RB Alvin Kamara
Drafting at the end of the first round is far less challenging than in a regular league that only starts one quarterback. Those drafts typically wait for around the seventh or eighth round for team owners to recall they want a quarterback. In this, doubling down on the No. 5 and No. 6 quarterbacks made for a powerful start, and the No. 11 running back can still have upside. The 4.01 can be Saquon Barkley or Davante Adams or Mark Andrews. Certainly running back has to make up two of the next five picks, but two high-scoring quarterbacks spitting out weekly points allows for more risk-tolerance on the other starters.

First 3 Picks: 12-team league

Your first three picks define your fantasy team.

The names are less important than the positions because each draft slot has its own unique situation. Just as important are your future picks, and what you still need after three rounds. Rankings change daily so these may not exactly match site rankings. Pay the most attention to the positions and how they work together for an optimal start.

Performance scoring league

Average Points Top-10 scoring: QB 412, RB 228, WR 212, TE 127

The above three rounds are an optimal way to start the draft for all twelve draft slots. Let’s consider where each should be looking next after the three-pick start:

Team 1: RB Jonathan Taylor, QB Josh Allen, RB Devin Singletary
Top running back and quarterback are a big start. Cherry picking two wideouts over the next three rounds, and taking a third running back when the value seems best is in order.
Team 2: RB Derrick Henry, WR Stefon Diggs, RB Aaron Jones
The nice part of a top wideout is the consistent points. Best available with this start, but a third running back, a quarterback and another wideout make sense here.
Team 3: RB Austin Ekeler, RB Travis Etienne, WR Mike Evans
Same as Team 2. The next pick is too far to make concrete plans, but team is free to grab whatever. Strong start at running back means can wait on other positions. Best value will be wideout next, then quarterback.
Team 4: RB Christian McCaffrey, RB D’Andre Swift, WR CeeDee Lamb
This plan is pretty standard for the first half of the draft. And it usually works well in this format. This could be very good, but there is risk with McCaffrey and Swift from injury. Feel better to grab a running back and a quarterback next.
Team 5: RB Nick Chubb, WR Davante Adams, WR Tyreek Hill
Need to consider running back next, but will be looking at guys like Kareem Hunt, AJ Dillon, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire at best. Could go tight end and quarterback and then start scraping for upside running backs.
Team 6: RB Joe Mixon, WR Deebo Samuel, RB Antonio Gibson
In the middle of the draft, solid enough picks though nothing elite in any of them. Might consider a quarterback next just for a bigger bang for the buck and at least a slight advantage at the highest scoring position.
Team 7: RB Dalvin Cook, RB Leonard Fournette, WR Tee Higgins
The RB-RB start meant the No. 7 and No. 14 running backs, and there’s no advantage there but feels safe. Rather than collect more average (or worse) running backs, should consider quarterback and maybe even a tight end for the paper-thin advantage there.
Team 8: RB Najee Harris, RB Alvin Kamara, QB Patrick Mahomes
While this was much the same as Team 7, it looks better. Harris loses a lot without reception points but Kamara high-upside pick with, at least so far, risk. Scooping Mahomes up in the third means free to go where ever but needs one or two wide receivers pretty soon.
Team 9: WR Cooper Kupp, RB Saquon Barkley, RB J.K. Dobbins
This is riskier than most but Pick 9 is often the worst slot. Resisted yet another running back and gets advantage at wideout. Barkley is a scratch-off lottery ticket again this year and Dobbins fresh from his ACL tear is a risk. But at least has a core of starters. Next three picks should consider best available among any non-kicker/non-defense.
Team 10: RB Javonte Williams, WR Justin Jefferson, TE Mark Andrews
Drafting this deep, still went with the ninth running back taken. But arguably Top-2 at wideout and tight end offers some advantage. Has to look at running backs for at least the next two picks.
Team 11: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB Ezekiel Elliott, RB Cam Akers
Chase is great in any format and two running backs just played it safe. Only two picks away from the fourth choice and Justin Herbert would be a nice add. Fifth and sixth picks should likely be a wideout and a running back.
Team 12: RB James Conner, TE Travis Kelce, WR Michael Pittman Jr.
Taking the tenth running back is no advantage, but waiting until the turn at the end of Round 3 would mean Damien Harris or David Montgomery as his best back. Getting Kelce is far less advantageous without reception points, but still makes sense here. Should still consider the 4.01 for running back.

Reception-point league

Average Points Top-10 scoring: QB 412, RB 278, WR 314, TE 197

After the first ten or so wideouts are gone, the position will remain slightly better than comparable running backs but are also much deeper.

Team 1: RB Jonathan Taylor, WR Keenan Allen, TE Mark Andrews
The obligatory pick of Taylor was followed by the double scoop at the 2.12 and 3.01. Then went with tenth wideout for a legitimate WR1 and Andrews is more of a difference maker when the reception point is added. The next wrap- around at 4.12 and 5.01 pick from remaining committee backs and maybe take two since Top-3 quarterbacks are gone anyway.
Team 2: RB Austin Ekeler, RB Saquon Barkley, WR Michael Pittman Jr.
Safe enough start that works well depending on which Barkley shows up. But the core is accomplished and best available players are up next. Probably should consider a third running back over the next three picks.
Team 3: RB Christian McCaffrey, WR Tyreek Hill, RB L. Fournette
Bit of risk here for an early pick, but the upside of both McCaffrey and Hill are immense. Picked up the RB2 for a start that could be great if it all falls the right way. Has the luxury of taking the best available for the next two rounds and that probably will be his WR2 and RB3.
Team 4: RB Derrick Henry, RB James Conner, WR D.J. Moore
The safe start feels good but Moore as his WR1 is no advantage. Solid running backs mean two more wideouts are next and maybe a quarterback if a Top-3 still exists by the 6.09.
Team 5: WR Cooper Kupp, RB Alvin Kamara, RB Ezekiel Elliott
This could be deadly if Kamara doesn’t wear an all-orange uniform and Elliott rekindles 2019. But it could also have holes if it goes wrong. The risk of Kamara and Elliott means taking the RB3 sooner than later. But exciting start with upside.
Team 6: WR Justin Jefferson, WR CeeDee Lamb, RB D. Montgomery
By mid-draft, why not start out with two Top-8 wide receivers? Has a great advantage there and has to mine running backs to get lucky on the RB2, but good plan in the middle of a draft.
Team 7: RB Najee Harris, RB Javonte Williams, RB Travis Etienne
This is a big temptation assuming a flex position for Etienne to fill. And running back is the position that is fastest to drain. Now has to mine wideouts and the best will be Darnell Mooney/Mike Williams quality which isn’t terrible. The biggest risk here is that running backs are the most injured positions, and the first three picks have a higher chance of missing time.
Team 8: RB Joe Mixon, WR Mike Evans, RB Aaron Jones
Starts with the No. 6 running back and No. 7 wideout. This tough-to-succeed slot is building an average team. That works only when more than half the league goes to the playoffs (ands they don’t). Should look at quarterback and tight end next to gets at least some advantage in two positions.
Team 9: RB Dalvin Cook, RB Nick Chubb, WR Tee Higgins
Like Team 8, this is the safest-feeling route but begins with the No. 7 and No. 10 running back, followed by the No. 13 wideout who is a WR2 for his team. No fan of picking ninth, and this looks like another average team. Needs to find some sparks in other positions.
Team 10: WR Ja’Marr Chase, RB D’Andre Swift, RB Devin Singletary
WR1 is spectacular, and combining Swift and Singletary are a safe play. But has the option of A.J. Brown or Brandin Cooks at the 4.03 and possibly Mahomes or Herbert in the fifth round for a better bang in starters.
Team 11: WR Stefon Diggs, WR Deebo Samuel, TE Kyle Pitts
Picking at the end of the first round in this scoring format should be exciting and unconventional. Teams 8 and 9 went the safe route which felt natural at the time but Team 11 took a swing for the fence. Two Top-6 wideouts mean they can wait for four or even six rounds to start collecting WR3 candidates. Needs running backs, and three of them sooner than later since best available at the 4.02 is probably Cam Akers, Antonio Gibson or Breece Hall.
Team 12: TE Travis Kelce, WR Davante Adams, QB Josh Allen
This is how to handle picking last. There is no major advantage in taking running backs at the end of the first round, but owning the No. 1 tight end and quarterback is big in this scoring format. Taking the No. 5 wideout is rock solid for WR1. This does force need picks for running backs that should happen no later than the 5.12 and 6.01 wrap-around. That would yield at best often injured rushers or the RB2 from a committee backfield. But this can win if a sleeper running back can be found.

Super Flex / QB-heavy league

Average Points Top-10 scoring: QB 412, RB 278, WR 314, TE 197

This league seeds quarterbacks depending on how and why quarterbacks are so valuable. The most common is the option to start two quarterbacks. That pushes value in other positions deeper into the draft since quarterbacks take up far more of the early picks. Each 2QB or super-flex league can use different scoring and other aspects that impact player value, so consider the nuances of your league.

Team 1: QB Josh Allen, WR Ja’Marr Chase, QB Aaron Rodgers
Double-dipping on quarterbacks over the first three picks is very common – like taking two running backs in the other league formats above. The great part is that wideouts tend to last longer. So snapping up a running back or two makes sense because likely the best available is David Montgomery or Travis Etienne. Wideouts will last longer and they already have a Top-3 WR1.
Team 2: RB Jonathan Taylor, RB D’Andre Swift, QB Trey Lance
They went for strength in running backs, unable to pass Taylor or Swift. By Trey Lance at QB14, the pickings are already riskier if not unlikely to be an advantage. But can look at wideouts over the next three picks with some quality and decide if seeding the QB2 makes sense.
Team 3: QB Patrick Mahomes, RB Dalvin Cook, RB Nick Chubb
Safe play. Getting the Mahomes for QB1 feels great, and two of the Top-9 running backs are at worst solid. QB2 isn’t going to be an advantage even at the 4.10, so shop for wideouts with an eye out for the worst QB2 you can be okay owning.
Team 4: RB Austin Ekeler, QB Russell Wilson, RB Javonte Williams
Similar to Team 3, swapping the first two positions selected. And the same issue exists – needs wideouts and quarterbacks are slipping fast.
Team 5: QB Justin Herbert, QB Matthew Stafford, WR Stefon Diggs
Picking in the middle rounds hurt less in this format. They get a top quarterback and then doubles down with Stafford in Round 2. Still reached a Top-5 wideout in Round 3 but running back becomes a need pick – at least two in the next three rounds.
Team 6: RB Christian McCaffrey, QB Tom Brady, RB Alvin Kamara
This could be spectacular or a flop depending on McCaffrey’s health, Kamara’s legal limbo and if Brady can continue to perform decades after his peers disappeared. This plan is safe and has a ton of upside, but wideouts are on tap in two of next three picks.
Team 7: WR Cooper Kupp, WR Justin Jefferson, QB Derek Carr
Interesting start in this format – could not resist the top two wide receivers. Can wait on WR3 until after the middle of the draft. But mining quarterbacks and running backs are an immediate and pressing need.
Team 8: QB Joe Burrow, RB Joe Mixon, RB James Conner
Another safe play from the dreaded eight-spot. Wideouts and quarterbacks need to take up at least three of the next four picks.
Team 9: TE Travis Kelce, QB Kirk Cousins, WR Davante Adams
This is a little early for a risk taker but this worked out well in this format as this draft unfolded. Kelce is always an advantage but was still able to reach the No. 9 quarterback as QB1 and Adams lasted until the 3.09. That can happen in this format. If wideouts are taken more heavily, it only improves the running backs and quarterbacks at the 3.09. Regardless, running back is a need now but wideouts and tight ends are not.
Team 10: QB Dak Prescott, RB Najee Harris, RB Leonard Fournette
Starting with QB1 makes sense, and Top-5 RB1 is strong. By the 3.10, quarterbacks are into the bottom half of starters and went the safe route with the thirteenth running back as his RB2. Now has to consider wideouts and quarterback.
Team 11: QB Kyler Murray, QB Jalen Hurts, RB Saquon Barkley
This format favors the end of the first round more than the start. They can take two of the Top-8 quarterbacks for a major weekly advantage. The fourteenth running back isn’t much help as RB1 and all positions will be weaker, but the point differential with two starting Top-8 quarterbacks could compensate very well.
Team 12: RB Derrick Henry, QB Lamar Jackson, RB Ezekiel Elliott
Started RB-QB but then had to chose from the No. 15 running back, No. 16 quarterback or the No. 6 wideout. Picks again immediately and should go with that wideout. But should consider QB2 with the 5.12 even though the remaining options are not great.

Fantasy football draft prep: Breaking biases

Don’t get stuck in your ways of how you view players and situations in fantasy football.

All too often, advanced fantasy football gamers included, owners allow the past to dictate future draft plans through cognitive biases. Even full-time fantasy players need to remember from time to time that the game changes year over year and requires a press of the reset button.

In a sport where 11 constantly moving chess pieces work in harmony against a matching number of defenders trying to stifle any plans of a checkmate, all it takes is a small change to make a huge difference.

What are you waiting for?!? It’s time to get into The Huddle! Sign up today.

I’ve written a number of times about expectations and how we perceive players based on what we think they will do on the field, whether it be weekly or annually. All it takes is being slightly wrong in our view of a situation to see those projections fall apart. We cannot control injuries, and life throws extenuating circumstances into the mix, but recognizing our own biases about teams and players absolutely can be controlled.

Objectivity is arguably the most important element in creating a fantasy championship. Luck always factors in, and remaining on top of the news is thoroughly important as well. Just as being armed with a reliable set of rankings is pivotal, also the ability to check emotions and individual experiences at the door is paramount. A mental checklist of “dos and don’ts” should be on everyone’s brain as they prepare for a draft and evaluate talent.

Fantasy football mock draft series: June takeaways

Recapping a recent fantasy football PPR draft and more!

It is well into June, and fantasy football drafts are churning along. A recently hosted industry live draft is the source for this recap. Out of respect for the hosts of this draft, no reference will be made to its identity so the content remains fresh on their end, nor will the entire draft results be published here.

The blurbs about my team below were provided to the draft host and will appear in a magazine as part of a larger evaluation of the draft. Before getting into my individual picks, here are a few observations from a 12-team, PPR draft.

In last year’s iteration, Round 1 saw nine running backs, two receivers and a tight end come off the board. This time out, we saw seven running backs and five receivers, including Cooper Kupp going at No. 2 and Justin Jefferson as the third selection.
Six RBs came off the board in Round 2 in 2021’s draft, followed by one fewer receiver and another tight end. This year was no different.
The first QB came off the board in Round 3 last year, and Josh Allen was taken with the opening pick of Round 5 this time around. Justin Herbert went just two picks later, and only a pair of passers came off the board in the next 31 selections (Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes).
In the first 100 picks, eight QBs, 38 RBs, 45 WRs and nine TEs — no significant changes from the May version when six QBs, 39 RBs, 45 WRs and 10 tight ends.
This was the first time I had selected from the No. 1 hole, and there’s one and only choice to be made to create a stress-free situation.
Having the first pick meant my second and third selections were chosen consecutively, which effectively means the order is irrelevant. Coming out of the first three rounds with at least two running backs is almost always my plan when selecting in the first four spots. Wide receiver is so ridiculously deep that gamers can hold off, making the preferred strategy is to come out of the first three rounds with a single wideout.
Quarterback remains quite deep, too, with a viable starter being available into the 13th round. Tight end remains a little top-heavy, just like last year. Following the consensus top-six TEs — all of whom went in the first five rounds — the position gets really dicey. If you’re not comfortable playing the matchups, make sure to secure one of Mark Andrews, Travis Kelce, Kyle Pitts, George Kittle, Darren Waller or Dalton Schultz.
I was not entirely sure what to expect for my first receiver entering the draft, since many owners in this league tend to favor wideouts early, but it worked out nicely as you’ll read in a moment.

Here’s a snapshot of the first 10 rounds broken down by number of positional picks:

1st: 7 RBs, 5 WRs
2nd: 6 RBs, 5 WRs, 1 TE
3rd: 7 RBs, 4 WRs, 1 TE
4th: 2 RBs, 8 WRs, 2 TEs
5th: 2 QBs, 4 RBs, 5 WRs, 1 TE
6th: 2 QBs, 1 RB, 7 WRs, 2 TEs
7th: 1 QB, 4 RBs, 5 WRs, 2 TEs
8th: 3 QBs, 6 RBs, 3 WRs
9th: 2 QBs, 3 RBs, 7 WRs
10th: 2 QBs, 5 RBs, 4 WRs, 1 TE

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My team

We were asked to write 35 words per pick to give a little insight as to our draft thoughts:

Fantasy football draft prep: 12 common mistakes to avoid

A dozen rules fantasy footballers must follow for consistent success.

Our annual “draft prep” series mostly caters to novice players, but every once in a while a veteran player requires a refresher on basics we may take for granted.

1) Living in the past: Assuming successes and failures from last year automatically will carry over to this year’s results is a quick trip to Loserville. Each year is brand new and requires a reset of the old memory bank.

2) Stay sober: While it may seem silly, don’t let one draft party of hard boozing affect an entire season of fantasy football. Party it up after the draft and celebrate your soon-to-be championship roster.

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3) No one likes a homer: Well, except for that Homer. Heavily drafting players from your favorite team tends to lead to an entire season of hangover-filled Monday mornings. This also includes taking a specific player over a better option just because that player is on your favorite team. Be objective.

4) Draft by the rules: Not knowing your league’s scoring structure, lineup composition, and/or bylaws generally results in utter failure. At a minimum, it translates into lost points.

5) Stretch it out: Flexibility in fantasy drafts is essential. Gamers with a rigid strategy miss out on key value due to their inability to zig when others are zagging.

6) No F.O.M.O.: All too often owners will see or sense a miniature run at a position and overreact out of the fear of missing out. Always having a sound backup plan alleviates concern in this area.

7) Mocking mock drafters: “I don’t need preparation!” declares the eventual last-place owner on draft day. Everyone needs practice. Look back at all of the things in life that required some repetitions before you improved. Don’t take my word for it … ask your significant other.

8) Bye week blues: This cuts both ways — getting caught up in not paying attention to bye weeks as well as outright passing on talent because it would create multiple players at the position on bye. Later in the year, bye weeks are easier — not harder — to overcome due to months of roster manipulation.

9) Leaving money on the table: Specifically for those who participate in auctions, leaving any amount of money on the table is inexcusable. Spend it all, even if you have to pay up at the end of the auction on an inconsequential player.

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10) Peer pressure: Let’s face it, even seasoned veterans of fantasy don’t enjoy being ridiculed by 11 mates after making a questionable pick. There’s a major difference between being laughed at for taking a kicker in Round 1 and reaching a round or two for a sleeper at a skilled position.

11) ADP obsession: Time after time, owners get hung up on what the average draft placement suggests. It is merely a guideline, and whenever a service offering ADP compiles the data, it is impossible to completely weed out all variations and nuance. Look for ADP charts that offer date ranges and flexible sorting. Use it for nothing more than a ballpark idea of when positional trends typically begin.

12) Drafting to trade: For some unknown reason, every year I have gamers asking me about which players to target solely for trading purposes. Drafting players for a potential trade bargaining piece down the line is unwise. Way too much can (and usually does) go wrong in this scenario. This is where strictly choosing the “best player available” can lead to unwanted consequences.