Unveiling the Best Quarterbacks for Your Fantasy Football Squad
Alright, guys! Welcome back to our fantasy football series. Today, we're diving deep into the quarterback position to help you find the best quarterbacks for your fantasy football team. We know you're here to win, so we're not pulling any punches. Let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and good quarterbacks for fantasy football.
Why Focusing on Quarterbacks Matters
Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let's quickly chat about why quarterbacks are so crucial in fantasy football. Quarterbacks are the catalysts of your fantasy offense, driving your team's scoring and, ultimately, your league's standings. They're the most valuable position in fantasy, and having a solid QB1 can be the difference between a championship and an early offseason.
2021's Top Contenders: Our Picks for the Best Quarterbacks
Now, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into the best quarterbacks for fantasy football in 2021. Remember, these rankings are based on a points-per-reception (PPR) format, which rewards both passing yards and touchdowns, as well as rushing yards and TDs.
1. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
Kicking off our list is the reigning Super Bowl champion and MVP, Patrick Mahomes. The Chief's signal-caller has been an absolute fantasy beast since entering the league, and there's no reason to believe 2021 will be any different. Mahomes is a dual-threat QB who can torch defenses through the air and on the ground. With weapons like Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce at his disposal, expect another monster season from Mahomes.
2. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen has quietly become one of the best quarterbacks for fantasy football. The Bills' QB1 has improved each year and is coming off a career-best season, throwing for over 4,500 yards and 37 TDs. Allen's rushing ability provides a significant boost to his fantasy value, and with Stefon Diggs and a solid supporting cast, Allen is poised for another big year.
3. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers
Love him or hate him, Aaron Rodgers is still one of the best quarterbacks for fantasy football. The future Hall of Famer has been an elite fantasy producer for over a decade, and despite some offseason drama, he's still the clear-cut starter in Green Bay. With Davante Adams and a talented receiving corps, Rodgers should once again be a top-tier fantasy QB.
4. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson is a fantasy football cheat code. The dual-threat QB has finished as the QB1 in both of his full seasons as a starter, and there's no reason to believe 2021 will be any different. Jackson's rushing ability provides a significant boost to his fantasy value, and while his passing numbers may not blow you away, they're more than solid enough to make him one of the best quarterbacks for fantasy football.
5. Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys
Dak Prescott was on pace for a career year in 2020 before a season-ending ankle injury. Now fully healthy, Prescott is looking to build on that momentum and return to form as one of the best quarterbacks for fantasy football. With a loaded receiving corps that includes Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb, Prescott has the weapons to put up big numbers.
Sleepers and Breakouts: Late-Round Gems
Alright, guys, we've covered the big guns. Now let's talk about some sleepers and breakout candidates who could provide significant value in the later rounds of your draft.
Trey Lance, San Francisco 49ers
Trey Lance is the 49ers' QB of the future, and that future could be now. With Jimmy Garoppolo likely ceding snaps to the rookie, Lance has the potential to be a fantasy difference-maker. The North Dakota State product is a dual-threat QB with a big arm and impressive athleticism. If you're looking for a late-round flier with massive upside, consider Lance.
Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert burst onto the scene in 2020, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 31 TDs as a rookie. With a full offseason to prepare and an upgraded receiving corps that includes Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, Herbert is poised for a breakout season. If he's available in the mid-to-late rounds, don't hesitate to pull the trigger.
Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, leading the Eagles to a 4-0 record as a starter. With a full offseason to prepare and an improved supporting cast, Hurts has the potential to be a fantasy steal in the later rounds. The dual-threat QB can make plays with his arm and his legs, making him an attractive late-round target.
Draft Strategy: When to Pull the Trigger on a QB
So, guys, when should you draft a quarterback? The answer, as always, depends on your specific league settings and strategy. In general, though, we recommend waiting until the later rounds to draft your QB. In most 12-team leagues, you can wait until the 8th or 9th round and still get a solid starter.
Of course, if you're in a 2-QB or Superflex league, your strategy may need to change. In those formats, it's crucial to prioritize quarterbacks early, as they're in high demand.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Fantasy Football Roster
Alright, guys, that's all for today's deep dive into the best quarterbacks for fantasy football. We hope you found this article helpful and that it gives you the confidence to draft a QB who can lead your team to a championship.
Remember, fantasy football is all about building a balanced roster. While having a solid QB is crucial, don't neglect the other positions. Load up on talented running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends, and don't forget to snag a solid defense and special teams unit to round out your squad.
Good luck, guys! We'll see you on the waiver wire.