
Fantasy football is a game of strategy, luck, and sometimes, sheer madness. The question of what to pick first in fantasy football is one that has haunted managers for decades. Do you go for the surefire running back, the explosive wide receiver, or the quarterback who could either lead you to glory or sink your season? The answer is not straightforward, and the debate is as old as the game itself. But let’s dive into the chaos and explore the myriad of perspectives that make this question so intriguing.
The Case for the Running Back: The Workhorse of Fantasy Football
Traditionally, running backs have been the cornerstone of fantasy football teams. The logic is simple: running backs touch the ball more than any other position, and in many cases, they are the focal point of their team’s offense. A top-tier running back can provide consistent points week in and week out, making them a safe bet for your first pick.
However, the running back position is also one of the most volatile. Injuries are common, and the workload can wear down even the most durable players. Additionally, the rise of running back committees in the NFL has made it harder to find a true bell-cow back. Despite these risks, many fantasy managers still swear by the running back-first strategy, arguing that the potential rewards outweigh the risks.
The Wide Receiver Revolution: Explosiveness and Consistency
In recent years, wide receivers have gained traction as viable first-round picks. The NFL has become more pass-heavy, and elite wide receivers are now putting up numbers that rival those of running backs. Players like Davante Adams, Tyreek Hill, and Stefon Diggs have shown that a top-tier wide receiver can be just as valuable, if not more so, than a running back.
Wide receivers also tend to have a lower injury risk compared to running backs, and their production is often more consistent. While running backs can be game-script dependent, wide receivers are often targeted regardless of the score. This makes them a safer option for fantasy managers who want to avoid the volatility of the running back position.
The Quarterback Conundrum: High Risk, High Reward
Quarterbacks are the most important players on the field in real football, but in fantasy football, their value is a bit more nuanced. While a top-tier quarterback can put up massive numbers, the difference between the best and the tenth-best quarterback is often not as significant as the difference between the best and tenth-best running back or wide receiver.
That said, there are exceptions. Players like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen have the ability to single-handedly win you weeks with their dual-threat capabilities. If you believe in the upside of a quarterback who can rack up both passing and rushing yards, taking one early could pay off in a big way. However, this strategy is not without risk, as quarterback performance can be more unpredictable than other positions.
The Tight End Wildcard: The Kelce Effect
Tight end is often considered a wasteland in fantasy football, with only a handful of players providing consistent value. However, Travis Kelce has single-handedly changed the way many managers view the position. Kelce has been a fantasy cheat code for years, putting up wide receiver-like numbers from the tight end position.
If you’re lucky enough to land Kelce in your draft, he can provide a significant advantage over your opponents. However, the drop-off after Kelce is steep, and taking a tight end early means passing up on a potential stud at another position. This makes the tight end position a high-risk, high-reward option in the first round.
The Zero-RB Strategy: Bucking the Trend
For those who want to zig when others zag, the zero-RB strategy is an intriguing option. This strategy involves avoiding running backs in the early rounds and instead loading up on wide receivers, tight ends, and even a quarterback. The idea is to build a strong foundation at other positions and then target high-upside running backs in the middle to late rounds.
The zero-RB strategy can pay off if you hit on your late-round running backs, but it’s a risky approach. Running backs are still the most valuable position in fantasy football, and passing on them early can leave you scrambling to find production later in the season. However, for managers who are confident in their ability to find value later in the draft, the zero-RB strategy can be a game-changer.
The Importance of Flexibility: Adapting to the Draft
One of the most important aspects of fantasy football is flexibility. While it’s good to have a strategy going into the draft, it’s equally important to be able to adapt based on how the draft unfolds. If you’re set on taking a running back in the first round but the top options are gone, don’t be afraid to pivot to a wide receiver or even a quarterback.
Similarly, if you’re planning to wait on a quarterback but one of the elite options falls to you in the middle rounds, don’t be afraid to pull the trigger. The key is to stay fluid and make decisions based on the value available, rather than sticking rigidly to a pre-determined plan.
The Role of Luck: Embracing the Chaos
At the end of the day, fantasy football is a game of luck. No matter how much research you do or how well you draft, there are always factors beyond your control. Injuries, breakout performances, and unexpected busts can all derail even the most well-constructed team.
This is why it’s important to embrace the chaos and not take the game too seriously. While it’s fun to debate the merits of different draft strategies, the reality is that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of what to pick first in fantasy football. The best approach is to trust your instincts, have fun, and enjoy the ride.
Related Q&A
Q: Should I always take a running back in the first round?
A: Not necessarily. While running backs are traditionally the most valuable position, the rise of elite wide receivers and the volatility of the running back position mean that other options can be just as viable.
Q: Is it worth taking a quarterback early?
A: It depends on the quarterback. Elite dual-threat quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen can provide a significant advantage, but the difference between the top quarterbacks and the mid-tier options is often not as significant as at other positions.
Q: What is the zero-RB strategy, and should I use it?
A: The zero-RB strategy involves avoiding running backs in the early rounds and instead focusing on wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks. It’s a high-risk, high-reward strategy that can pay off if you hit on your late-round running backs.
Q: How important is flexibility in a fantasy football draft?
A: Flexibility is crucial. While it’s good to have a strategy, being able to adapt based on how the draft unfolds is key to building a strong team. Don’t be afraid to pivot if the value isn’t there for your initial plan.
Q: How much does luck play a role in fantasy football?
A: Luck plays a significant role in fantasy football. Injuries, breakout performances, and unexpected busts can all impact your team’s success, regardless of how well you draft. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the game!