As the football season inches closer, the fantasy drafting season remains in full swing. There are so many fun and unique quirks that can be altered in your league scoring system; however, all leagues fall into the category of either Standard or PPR. Today, we’ll focus on draft strategy for standard scoring leagues.
Draft Strategy for Standard Scoring (Non-PPR) Fantasy Football
Standard leagues, which do not award points for receptions, place a premium on touchdowns and yardage, altering the value of various positions compared to PPR formats. This article delves into the optimal strategies for drafting in standard leagues:
Prioritize Running Backs
In standard leagues, running backs reign supreme. The absence of points for receptions significantly boosts the value of RBs who can accumulate rushing yards and touchdowns. Historically, the top-scoring players in standard formats are often elite running backs.
The first two rounds should focus on securing at least one if not two, elite RBs. Players like Christian McCaffrey, Derrick Henry, and Jonathan Taylor could be your primary targets. Their ability to consistently deliver high yardage and score touchdowns provides a stable foundation for your team. In the mid-to-late rounds, look for RBs with high touchdown potential, even if they share carries. Goal-line backs or those in high-scoring offenses can offer significant value.
Focus on Yardage and Touchdowns for Wide Receivers
While wide receivers are important, their value in standard leagues hinges more on yardage and touchdowns than on the sheer volume of receptions. High-yardage receivers who are also red-zone threats should be your primary targets.
Top-tier WRs like Justin Jefferson and Tyreek Hill are invaluable. In the mid-to-late rounds, seek out WRs in prolific offenses or those with a proven track record of scoring touchdowns. Players like Mike Evans, who consistently finds the end zone, can be invaluable in standard formats. Additionally, targeting WRs who have a high average depth of target (aDOT) can be beneficial as they tend to accumulate more yardage and have higher touchdown potential.
Balance Value and Opportunity Cost at Quarterback
The quarterback position, while crucial, should be approached with a balance of value and opportunity cost. Drafting a QB too early can lead to missing out on elite RB or WR options, while waiting too long can leave you with a subpar starter. Targeting QBs who can contribute both through the air and on the ground is ideal. Players like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes, not only rack up passing yards and touchdowns, but also add valuable rushing stats, increasing their overall fantasy value.
If you miss out on the top-tier QBs, players like Jalen Hurts or Joe Burrow offer significant upside and can be drafted in the middle rounds. These QBs play in high-scoring offenses and have demonstrated the ability to produce consistent fantasy points. Waiting until the mid-rounds to draft a QB can allow you to stockpile RBs and WRs early, giving your team a solid core before addressing the QB position.
Either Go Elite or Loof for Late-Round Fliers at Tight End
The tight end position in standard leagues is often dominated by a few elite players. If you miss out on these top options, it’s generally advisable to wait until the later rounds. Sam LaPorta and Mark Andrews are the primary targets here. Laporta’s role in the Lions’ high-powered offense ensures a steady stream of yardage and touchdowns, making him worth an early-round pick. However, if you decide to punt the TE position early, look for high-upside players later on. Players like Cole Kmet or Pat Freiermuth, who have shown flashes of brilliance and play in potent offenses, can offer substantial value.
Build Flexibility and Depth
Flexibility and depth are critical components of a successful draft strategy. Injuries and bye weeks are inevitable, so having a well-rounded bench can make or break your season. Securing the backup to your star RBs can be a wise move, particularly for injury-prone players. This ensures you have a next-man-up ready to step in. Additionally, focus on depth at the RB and WR positions in the middle to late rounds.
Depth at WR and RB is essential for navigating the ups and downs of a fantasy football season. By having reliable backups, you can maintain competitive lineups even when faced with injuries or underperformance. This approach also allows you to exploit favorable matchups throughout the season, maximizing your team’s scoring potential each week.
Drafting in standard scoring fantasy football leagues requires a strategic approach that emphasizes touchdowns and yardage over receptions. By prioritizing elite running backs, targeting high-yardage and touchdown-receiving wideouts, and balancing the value of quarterbacks and tight ends, you can build a formidable roster poised for success. Flexibility and depth will further solidify your team’s chances, ensuring you’re prepared for the unpredictable nature of the fantasy football season. Embrace these strategies, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful draft and a competitive fantasy football team.
Are you a veteran of standard scoring leagues? Share some wisdom in the comments below and then make sure to check out our 2024 Fantasy Football Draft Kit for more great rankings and analysis.