Fantasy Football: Top Players To Draft Now

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Draft day is fast approaching, and every fantasy football manager is asking the same question: Who should I start? Nailing your early-round picks can set the foundation for a championship-winning season. Let’s dive into the top players you should be targeting in your fantasy football draft.

Top Tier Running Backs

  • Christian McCaffrey: The Carolina Panthers' workhorse remains a top pick due to his dual-threat ability. He’s a consistent producer in both rushing and receiving, making him a safe bet for your RB1 slot.
  • Austin Ekeler: With the Chargers, Ekeler has proven his worth as a high-volume back. His involvement in the passing game gives him a significant boost in PPR formats.
  • Bijan Robinson: The Atlanta Falcons' prized rookie has generated considerable buzz. Expected to be a focal point of the Falcons' offense, Robinson’s potential is immense, warranting a high draft pick.

Elite Wide Receivers

  • Justin Jefferson: The Minnesota Vikings’ star is arguably the best receiver in the game. His target share and ability to make contested catches make him a weekly must-start.
  • Ja’Marr Chase: Joe Burrow’s favorite target, Chase, is a dynamic playmaker with the potential to explode for massive games. His connection with Burrow makes him a reliable WR1.
  • Cooper Kupp: When healthy, Kupp is a target machine. His precise route running and chemistry with Matthew Stafford make him a PPR monster.

Quarterbacks to Target

  • Patrick Mahomes: The Kansas City Chiefs’ superstar is always in the conversation for QB1. His ability to extend plays and deliver accurate passes makes him a fantasy football goldmine.
  • Josh Allen: Allen’s rushing ability combined with his strong arm makes him a dual-threat quarterback capable of putting up huge numbers every week.
  • Jalen Hurts: With his legs and improved passing skills, Hurts is a fantasy football cheat code. His rushing touchdowns alone provide a significant advantage.

Sleepers and Value Picks

  • Running Backs: Look for players like Javonte Williams (Denver Broncos) and AJ Dillon (Green Bay Packers) who could see increased workloads as the season progresses.
  • Wide Receivers: Keep an eye on Christian Watson (Green Bay Packers) and Skyy Moore (Kansas City Chiefs), who have the potential to break out in their respective offenses.
  • Tight Ends: Darren Waller (New York Giants) could be a steal if he stays healthy, offering significant upside at a scarce position.

Strategic Drafting Tips

  1. Know Your League: Understand your league’s scoring settings (PPR, Standard, Half-PPR) to adjust your rankings accordingly.
  2. Position Scarcity: Be aware of positions that tend to dry up quickly, like tight end, and plan your draft strategy around these.
  3. Bye Weeks: Consider bye weeks to avoid being caught off guard later in the season.
  4. Handcuff Running Backs: Secure the backups to your star running backs to mitigate risk in case of injury.

Ultimately, the best fantasy football draft strategy combines research, adaptability, and a bit of luck. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful season.