Who Should I Start in Fantasy: Your Ultimate Guide to Draft Day Decisions
Alright, fantasy football enthusiasts! It's that time of the year again – draft season. We know you've been poring over those cheat sheets and rankings, but let's face it, even the most prepared among us can find ourselves scratching our heads when it's time to make that first pick. So, who should I start in fantasy? Let's dive in and tackle this crucial question together. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and who should i start in fantasy.
The Big Picture: Understanding Your Draft Strategy
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of who to start, let's talk strategy. Your draft strategy should be as unique as your fantasy team. Are you going for zero-running back (ZRB) or zero-wide receiver (ZWR)? Maybe you're a fan of the zero-QB (ZQB) strategy, or perhaps you prefer a balanced approach. Whatever your strategy, understanding it will help guide your decision on who to start in your fantasy draft.
The Zero-RB/Zero-WR Strategy
The zero-RB and zero-WR strategies involve waiting on drafting running backs and wide receivers, usually until the mid to late rounds. This approach allows you to stock up on elite quarterbacks, tight ends, and defensive players early on. However, it's a risky strategy that requires careful planning and a solid understanding of your league's scoring system.
The Zero-QB Strategy
The zero-QB strategy, also known as the "wait and stream" strategy, involves drafting a low-cost or even free quarterback and then streaming QBs from the waiver wire each week. This strategy frees up early draft capital to invest in elite players at other positions. However, it requires a keen eye for waiver wire gems and a willingness to gamble on weekly matchups.
The Balanced Approach
For those who prefer a more conservative approach, the balanced strategy involves drafting a mix of elite and value players at each position throughout the draft. This strategy minimizes risk and provides a solid foundation for your team.
Round 1: The Elite Picks
Now that we've talked strategy let's get down to business. Who should I start in fantasy, specifically in the first round? Here are some top contenders:
Christian McCaffrey, RB, Carolina Panthers
If you're a fan of the balanced approach, McCaffrey could be your man. He's coming off a historic 2019 season where he finished as the overall RB1, and he's showing no signs of slowing down. With CMC, you're getting a proven workhorse who can contribute in both the running and passing games.
Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
Barkley is another elite RB who could be a first-round pick in your fantasy draft. After a promising rookie season, Barkley's 2019 campaign was cut short by an ankle injury. However, with a full offseason to recover and a revamped Giants offense, Barkley is poised for a bounce-back year.
Michael Thomas, WR, New Orleans Saints
If you're leaning towards a zero-RB strategy, Thomas could be your guy. He's coming off back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and has established himself as one of the game's premier wideouts. With Drew Brees under center, Thomas should continue to see plenty of targets in 2020.
Round 2: The Value Picks
Alright, so you've snagged an elite player in the first round. Now what? Here are some value picks to consider in the second round:
Dak Prescott, QB, Dallas Cowboys
If you're a fan of the zero-QB strategy, Prescott could be your man. He's coming off a career year in 2019, throwing for over 4,900 yards and 30 touchdowns. With a talented supporting cast and an improved offensive line, Prescott could continue to put up elite numbers in 2020.
Miles Sanders, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
Sanders is an exciting young RB who could take a significant step forward in his second season. He showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie, averaging 5.0 yards per carry and scoring six touchdowns. With a full offseason under his belt and a potential increase in workload, Sanders could be a steal in the second round.
Tyreek Hill, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Hill is a speedster who can take any touch to the house. After a slow start to the 2019 season due to injury, Hill finished strong, tallying over 1,400 yards and 15 touchdowns. With Patrick Mahomes under center, Hill should continue to put up elite numbers in 2020.
The Rest of the Draft: Filling Out Your Roster
Congratulations, you've made it through the first two rounds! Now it's time to fill out the rest of your roster. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Handcuff Your Stars
Handcuffing involves drafting a player's backup in case the starter goes down with an injury. This strategy can help you avoid the waiver wire scramble and ensure that you have a solid fantasy contributor at that position.
Wait on Tight Ends
Tight ends are a notoriously difficult position to draft, as they can be highly unpredictable from year to year. Consider waiting until the middle to late rounds to draft a tight end, and focus on filling out your skill positions first.
Draft for Depth
Even the best-laid plans can go awry due to injury or underperformance. Make sure to draft players with upside who can step in and contribute if needed.
Final Thoughts: Who Should I Start in Fantasy?
So, who should I start in fantasy? The answer is that it depends on your draft strategy, your league's scoring system, and your personal preferences. The key is to stay informed, be flexible, and make the best pick for your team at each turn. Good luck, and happy drafting!