2024 Fantasy Football Draft: Top Picks and Strategies for a Winning Team

Drafting Your 2024 Fantasy Football Team in Style

Hey, football fans! Let’s talk about something we all love: fantasy football. As we’re heading into the 2024 Yahoo drafts, it’s time to fine-tune our strategies to draft a winning team. Whether you’ve got years of experience or you’re a newbie, the goal is to balance high-scoring potential players and those you can rely on week in and week out. And guess what? We’re breaking down the safest picks for each round in a 10-team, 0.5 PPR format. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Round 1: Start with a Bang

Alright, first up, you won’t want to miss Tyreek Hill. This guy is the real deal! While Christian McCaffrey racked up the most fantasy points for a non-QB last season, Hill is the safer pick here due to his age and durability. Just look at the numbers: over the last three seasons, Hill has averaged 1,600 scrimmage yards, more than 110 receptions, and around 10 touchdowns. He’s part of the NFL’s most explosive offense, making him virtually unstoppable. Last two seasons? Top-three in fantasy points per game. You can’t go wrong with Cheetah!

Round 2: Lock in Your RB

Moving on to Round 2, if you’re looking for a solid running back, Isaiah Pacheco is your guy. Sure, there are some big names here, but many come with asterisks like injuries or age. Pacheco is a three-down back with upside in a dynamic offense. Given that most RBs here are either aging or dealing with injuries, he’s the safest bet to anchor your team.

Round 3: Get Your QB

Now let’s talk QBs. Josh Allen is the one and only choice. Over the past four seasons, he’s racked up the most fantasy points among QBs three times. Expect around 4,200 passing yards and 500 rushing yards too. Throw in another 10 rushing TDs and you’ve got yourself a set it and forget it kind of player. Lock him in for a shot at the championship!

Round 4: Follow the Money

Next up is Joe Mixon. He’s got a big deal and continues racking up fantasy points due to limited competition in his backfield. Despite a rough season averaging only 4.0 yards per carry, he finished in the top 12 among RBs in fantasy points per game. With him now part of an exciting Texans offense, he’s set to roll again with around 1,200 scrimmage yards and flirting with 10 total touchdowns.

Round 5: The Steady Receiver

If you’re eyeing wide receivers, grab DeVonta Smith. This fourth-year pro is a reliable pick with a safe floor of 1,000 yards and six touchdowns. Plus, he’s barely missed any games. With a new offensive scheme, expect more looks coming his way. If anything happens to A.J. Brown, you might just have yourself a WR1!

Round 6: Tight End Options

When it comes to tight ends, you can’t overlook George Kittle. With his recent stellar seasons (over 1,000 yards and six touchdowns), he’s positioned to snag more targets, especially with potential changes in the team dynamic. If you miss out on TE in the earlier rounds, Kittle is your perfect option!

Round 7: Solidify Your RB Slot

In Round 7, it’s all about grabbings a reliable RB. Rachaad White is your best bet here. The expected RB1 on a run-heavy squad, White averaged almost 100 rushing yards per game when he took over as the starter last season. Compared to other options, he’ll be a safer choice for your backfield.

Round 8: Mac the Weapon

As we slide into Round 8, look at Terry McLaurin. With ample opportunities coming his way, he’s had impressive seasons, managing at least 77 receptions and 1,000 yards over the last four years despite dealing with wild QB situations. Get him while he’s hot!

Round 9: Dependable Consistency

For Round 9, let’s give a nod to Chris Godwin. He’s been a steady performer with three straight 1,000-yard seasons. Despite a rough goal in the touchdown department last year, he’s due for a bounce-back season. Snag him and enjoy the reliability!

Round 10: The Rookie Buzz

Lastly, keep an eye on Jayden Daniels. As a dual-threat rookie QB, he could be your hidden gem late in drafts. If you’re looking for that upside, he could pay off in a big way.

There you have it! Remember, the key is to create a well-balanced team that has both star power and reliable performance. Happy drafting!