The best order to draft positions in fantasy football often depends on your league’s scoring format, the depth of each position, and your personal draft strategy. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, certain trends and strategies can guide you in constructing a competitive team.
Evaluating Positional Value and Scarcity
Understanding Positional Depth
- Running Backs (RBs): Traditionally seen as a scarce resource due to the high volume of points they can accumulate and the relative lack of depth at the position.
- Wide Receivers (WRs): Typically abundant in fantasy production, but top-tier WRs can still provide a significant advantage.
- Quarterbacks (QBs): While QBs often score the most points, the position is generally deep, meaning you can still get a quality QB in the later rounds.
- Tight Ends (TEs): A few elite TEs offer significant value, but the drop-off can be steep, making it a position of strategic importance.
Scoring Format Considerations
- Standard Leagues: Often prioritize RBs due to their potential for high rushing yards and touchdowns.
- PPR Leagues: Increase the value of WRs and pass-catching RBs, altering the typical draft strategy.
Draft Strategies by Round
Early Rounds (1-3): Securing Cornerstone Players
- First Round: Focus on securing a top RB or WR. In PPR leagues, elite WRs gain value, while top RBs are often the priority in standard formats.
- Second and Third Rounds: Continue to build your core, focusing on the best available RBs and WRs. Consider drafting an elite TE if available.
Middle Rounds (4-8): Balancing Your Roster
- Fourth to Sixth Rounds: Start filling out your starting lineup with the best available players. This could be the time to draft a top QB or round out your WRs and RBs.
- Seventh and Eighth Rounds: Consider positional scarcity and your team’s needs. This might be the time to grab a TE if you haven’t already or secure a high-upside QB.
Late Rounds (9+): Depth and High-Upside Picks
- Ninth Round and Beyond: Focus on depth and high-upside players. Look for potential breakout candidates, handcuff RBs, and backups for your starters’ bye weeks.
- Last Two Rounds: Typically reserved for drafting a Defense/Special Teams (D/ST) and a kicker (K), as these positions are less predictable and offer less comparative advantage.
Adapting to Draft Flow and League Trends
- Monitor Runs on Positions: Be aware of runs on specific positions and be ready to adjust your strategy to ensure you don’t miss out on a scarce position.
- Flexibility: While having a plan is important, the ability to adapt based on the draft flow and the actions of your league mates is crucial.
The Final Game Plan: Crafting a Winning Draft Strategy
The best order to draft positions in fantasy football is not a fixed formula but a flexible strategy that considers positional value, scoring format, and the evolving dynamics of the draft. Your goal should be to balance securing cornerstone players with addressing positional scarcity and exploiting the depth of talent available. Remember, the draft is just the beginning. A successful fantasy football season involves not only a strong draft but also proactive in-season management, including savvy waiver wire moves and strategic lineup decisions. As you prepare for your draft, keep in mind that every pick is a step toward your ultimate goal: fantasy football victory.