What Position Do You Draft First in Fantasy Football? Let's Dive In!
Hey there, football fanatics! Welcome back to our fantasy football series. Today, we're going to tackle a question that's been on everyone's mind: what position do you draft first in fantasy football? We'll break down the pros and cons of each position, and by the end, you'll be ready to make that crucial first pick. So grab your helmets, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and what position do you draft first in fantasy football.
Understanding the Fantasy Football Draft Order
Before we dive into the positions, let's quickly recap the draft order. In standard leagues, the draft order is determined by a random draw or the previous year's standings (worst to first). Knowing this order is crucial, as it can influence your first pick. Now, let's get into the meat and potatoes!
The Case for Drafting a Running Back First
Running Backs (RB) have long been considered the gold standard for the first pick. Here's why:
- Touches and Opportunities: RBs get more touches than any other position. More touches mean more opportunities for points. - Consistency: RBs tend to provide more consistency in scoring. While WRs can have big games, they're also more likely to have bust weeks due to matchups or injuries. - RB Depth: The drop-off in talent from the top RBs to the rest of the pack is steeper than at other positions. This means that drafting an elite RB early can give you a significant advantage.
The Elite RB Tier
When considering the what position do you draft first in fantasy football question, look at the top-tier RBs:
- Christian McCaffrey (CAR) - Saquon Barkley (NYG) - Alvin Kamara (NO) - Ezekiel Elliott (DAL) - Dalvin Cook (MIN)
These guys are game-changers and can single-handedly carry your team to a championship. If one of them falls to you at pick #1, don't hesitate to snatch them up.
The Growing Case for Drafting a Wide Receiver First
In recent years, some fantasy managers have started drafting Wide Receivers (WR) first. Here's why:
- Passing Volume: The NFL is more pass-heavy than ever. In 2020, 11 QBs threw for over 4,000 yards. More passing means more opportunities for WRs. - WR Depth: While the top-tier RBs are elite, the WR position is deeper. This means you can find quality WRs later in the draft. - Big Play Ability: Elite WRs can turn a game on its head with a single play. Think about it: how many times have you seen a WR score multiple TDs in a game?
The Elite WR Tier
When considering the what position do you draft first in fantasy football question, keep an eye on these top WRs:
- Michael Thomas (NO) - Davante Adams (GB) - Tyreek Hill (KC) - Julio Jones (ATL) - DeAndre Hopkins (ARI)
These guys are matchup-proof and can put up massive numbers week in and week out.
The Other Positions: Quarterback, Tight End, and Defense
While Quarterbacks (QB), Tight Ends (TE), and Defenses are important, they're not typically considered for the first pick. Here's a quick rundown:
- QBs: You can wait on QBs, as there are plenty of viable starters available in the mid to late rounds. Plus, QB is the easiest position to stream (starting a different QB each week based on matchups). - TEs: TE is a thin position, but it's also volatile. You can wait and snag a TE in the mid-rounds or even later, depending on your strategy. - Defenses: Defenses are highly dependent on matchups and can be streamed effectively. There's no need to reach for one in the first round.
The Zero-RB Strategy
Some fantasy managers employ the zero-RB strategy, which involves not drafting a RB until the late rounds or even the waiver wire. This strategy allows you to load up on elite WRs and other positions early. It's risky but can pay off big if you hit on your late-round RBs.
Drafting Based on Your League Settings
Remember, the what position do you draft first in fantasy football question isn't one-size-fits-all. Your league's settings (e.g., PPR, non-PPR, superflex, etc.) can influence your decision. For example, in PPR leagues, WRs tend to score more points, making them more valuable.
Final Thoughts
So, what position do you draft first in fantasy football? The answer is: it depends. Both RBs and WRs have their merits, and ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference and your league's settings. Just remember: no matter who you draft first, it's important to have a solid draft strategy and stick to it.
That's all for today, folks! We hope this article helped you answer the what position do you draft first in fantasy football question. Stay tuned for more fantasy football tips and tricks. Until next time, happy drafting!
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