Drafting the Dream Team: The Best Quarterbacks for Your Fantasy Football Squad
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Welcome back to our strategy-packed guide. Today, we're going to dive into the most crucial position on the field – the quarterback – and help you find the best quarterbacks to draft for your fantasy football team. So, grab your playbooks, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and best quarterbacks to draft for fantasy football.
Why Focus on Quarterbacks in Fantasy Football?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of who to draft, let's talk about why quarterbacks are so darn important in fantasy football. The QB position is a scoring goldmine, with passing touchdowns and yardage accounting for a significant portion of your team's points. Plus, with the rise of dual-threat QBs, you're now getting bonus points for those elusive rushing yards and TDs. So, it's no surprise that the top-scoring QBs often lead their teams to fantasy glory.
The Elite: Top-Tier Quarterbacks to Draft
Alright, let's talk turkey (or should we say, touchdown?). Here are the best quarterbacks to draft in the early rounds, the cream of the crop, the fantasy football elite:
1. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
Strong, bold, and italic – that's how you'd describe Mahomes' fantasy potential. The reigning Super Bowl MVP is a lock for the first round in most drafts, thanks to his uncanny ability to rack up points through the air and on the ground. With weapons like Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce, and a revamped running game, Mahomes is poised for another monster season.
2. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Allen has quickly become a fantasy darling, thanks to his elite rushing ability and a pass-catching corps that's the envy of the league. With Stefon Diggs leading the way and an improving offensive line, Allen could very well challenge Mahomes for the top QB spot in 2021.
3. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
The reigning NFL MVP is a must-draft in any format, especially if you're in a Superflex or 2QB league. Jackson's rushing ability is unparalleled at the position, and with the Ravens' commitment to the run, he's a virtual guarantee for 1,000+ rushing yards and 20+ TDs on the ground alone.
The Middle Tier: Value Quarterbacks to Target
If you're looking for value at the QB position, these mid-round gems could be just the ticket:
4. Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys
Prescott was on pace for a record-breaking season in 2020 before his injury, and with a full complement of weapons in 2021, he's primed for a bounce-back campaign. If you can snag him in the mid-to-late second round, consider it a steal.
5. Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks
Wilson has consistently been one of the most efficient QBs in the league, and with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett leading the way, he's always a threat to put up big numbers. If you can wait until the late second or early third round, Wilson provides excellent value.
6. Deshaun Watson, Houston Texans
Caveat emptor – Watson's fantasy value is dependent on his landing spot. If he ends up with a contender, he could be a top-five QB. If he's stuck in Houston or on a rebuilding team, he's a risk. Keep an eye on the offseason moves and adjust your draft strategy accordingly.
The Late Rounders: Sleepers and Handcuffs
If you're looking to wait on the QB position, these late-round targets and handcuffs could provide excellent value:
7. Jameis Winston, New Orleans Saints
Winston has the potential to put up big numbers if he wins the starting job in New Orleans. With Michael Thomas, Alvin Kamara, and a talented supporting cast, Winston could be this year's Ryan Tannehill – a late-round steal with top-five potential.
8. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
Tua's rookie season was marred by injuries, but he showed flashes of brilliance when he was on the field. With a full offseason to prepare and an improving supporting cast, Tua could be this year's Justin Herbert – a late-round QB with breakout potential.
9. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Speaking of Herbert, if you're in a Superflex or 2QB league, don't sleep on last year's rookie sensation. He threw for over 4,000 yards and 31 TDs in just 15 games, and with a full season under his belt, he could take the next step in 2021.
Draft Strategy: When to Draft Your Quarterback
So, when should you pull the trigger on a QB? It depends on your league format and the talent at other positions. In standard leagues, you can wait until the late second or early third round to draft a top-tier QB, as the running back and wide receiver positions are typically deeper. In Superflex or 2QB leagues, you might need to snag a QB in the first round to stay competitive.
Final Thoughts: Quarterbacks in Fantasy Football
There you have it, folks – our guide to the best quarterbacks to draft in 2021. Whether you're targeting the elite QBs in the early rounds or waiting for value in the later rounds, there's a strategy that works for you. So, get out there, dominate your draft, and bring home that fantasy football championship!
Happy drafting, and we'll see you on the gridiron!