It’s almost that time to start phoning your buddies and setting up a fantasy league. Most fantasy football drafts take place in August just before pre-season ends so don’t panic, you’ve still got another month to narrow down your picks.
Tons of trades happened this offseason that are going to leave drafts wide open for sleeper picks and a mix of different projections.
But how do you get the most out of your fantasy draft? Start with RBs, lean into WRs, snag a top-tier QB with your 3rd or 4th pick, acquire more skill players, grab a solid defense around 7 or 8, and a kicker.
The Results of My Mock Draft
Following my draft formula, I snagged Cooper Kupp with my first pick, obviously. Aimed for a groundbreaking TE in Kittle, Cam Akers as an RB1, and Justin Herbert to lead the way.
Your first pick is going to be crucial. Most leagues have Jonathan Taylor going off the board first. Along with Taylor are Kupp, Najee Harris, Henry, Kelce, Ekeler, McCaffrey, Chub, Jefferson, Kamara, and Mixon all off the board in the first round.
Elite running backs offer great value for points and trade acquisitions – especially in PPR leagues.
What should you do with your first pick?
Do yourself a favor and draft a high-quality running back. The common trend in these mock drafts is more running-back-heavy, leaving the 2nd and 3rd picks wide open for wide receivers.
Teams are built on the foundation of running backs and receivers because of their high upside but don’t forget to show attention to the quarterback position.
Which QBs are going first?
A common trend for the QB position is among the likes of Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Justin Herbert. It’s not surprising to see Allen going first round because of his back-to-back 4,400+ yard seasons.
If you were to consider a later-round quarterback, I would keep an eye on Joe Burrow, Russell, Wilson, and Kyler Murray.
Which RBs are going first?
Jonathan Taylor is a clear #1 throughout the majority of leagues. Following Taylor, leagues are drafting, Najee Harris, Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, Christian McCaffrey, Nick Chubb, Dalvin Cook, Alvin Kamara, and Joe Mixon.
Late-round RBs to keep an eye on include: Melvin Gordon, Rashaad Penny, Chase Edmonds, and Damien Harris.
Which WRs are going first?
There’s no question Cooper Kupp is a lock at #1 WR in drafts. Players following Kupp include Justin Jefferson, Deebo Samuel, Stefon Diggs, and Ja’Marr Chase.
Late-round draft picks include Robert Woods, Adam Thielen, Kenny Golladay, and OBJ. You have to jump on WRs within the first 6 rounds because there’s a lot, but they go fast.
Which TEs are going first?
Travis Kelce, Mahomes’ new favorite target after Tyreek Hill left is trending as the #1 TE in the majority of leagues. Players following Kelce include George Kittle, Mark Andrews, and Kyle Pitts.
Late-round TE picks include Dallas Goedert, Dalton Schultz, T.J. Hockenson, and Irv Smith. If you don’t snag a TE in the first 6 rounds, you will need to count on these late-round picks.
Which D/ST are going first?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the first defense taken off the board in the majority of leagues. They are followed by Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots, and New Orleans Saints.
Late-round D/ST include Denver Broncos, Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers, and Indianapolis Colts. You can save your D/ST selection for the last 2-3 rounds if need be.
Which Kickers are going first?
Justin Tucker remains a lock as the number 1 most desired kicker in the majority of leagues. He is followed by Harrison Butker, Evan McPherson, and Tyler Bass.
Late-round kickers include Matt Gay, Greg Zuerlein, and Daniel Carlson. You don’t need to rush in for a kicker, but don’t get caught picking one up last.
Fantasy Football in 2022 is Going to be Insane
Groundbreaking trades took place this offseason and it’s going to be interesting to see if the trades pay off or not.
There are going to be several rookies who surprise us as well as sleeper picks. The best thing you can do is follow pre-season closely and make sure you’re aware of any and all injuries.
Good luck in Fantasy this year!
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