The age-old question in fantasy football: What is the best draft position? There is no simple answer as the ideal spot depends on your draft strategy, league format, and personal preferences. However, some positions offer strategic advantages in a typical 12-team standard league.
The "Sweet Spot"
Many seasoned fantasy players argue that the sweet spot for drafting lies between picks 4-6. This range provides the optimal balance of:
- Early Value: You're still in the early rounds where you can snag top-tier players.
- Flexibility: You're not locked into a specific strategy (e.g., zero-RB) and can adjust based on available talent.
- Control: You have a better chance of grabbing players you want before your rivals.
The Pros and Cons of Different Positions
Early Picks (1-3):
Pros:
- First dibs on elite players like Christian McCaffrey, Lamar Jackson, and Davante Adams.
- Higher chance of landing two top-tier players at your desired positions.
Cons:
- Potential for "reaching" on less-proven players due to pressure to fill out your roster.
- Limited flexibility to adapt your strategy as the draft progresses.
Middle Picks (4-8):
Pros:
- Balance of access to top-tier and high-potential players.
- Better chance of landing a "sleeper" player who breaks out during the season.
- More flexibility to adjust your strategy and capitalize on late-round value.
Cons:
- Increased competition for remaining star players.
- Potential for top players at your target positions to be taken before your next pick.
Late Picks (9-12):
Pros:
- Less pressure to make immediate "must-have" selections.
- Opportunity to snag value players who fall in the draft.
- Higher chance of landing a strong "late-round gem" who exceeds expectations.
Cons:
- Missing out on early-round elite players.
- Limited access to the best players at your target positions.
- Potential for limited upside compared to earlier picks.
Ultimately, It's About Strategy and Adaptability
The "best" draft position is relative. What matters most is:
- Drafting with a clear strategy: This could involve Zero RB, focusing on WRs early, or building a balanced roster.
- Adapting to the board: Being flexible enough to change your approach based on players available and your rivals' selections.
- Knowing your league: League format (e.g., PPR vs. standard) can influence optimal draft position.
By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of different draft spots, you can approach the 2020 fantasy football draft with confidence and make informed decisions. Remember, the best strategy is the one that aligns with your league and your own fantasy expertise!