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  1. Full Rankings

    The Hall of Fame game might have been a bust this year, but fantasy football is still approaching fast and furious. You have likely begun searching for every little piece of information you can find to dominate your league-mates. And SB Nation is back with our top 150 players. We will be updating this list over the course of the preseason as injuries and standout performances impact the top fantasy options.

    As always, we remind you to remain flexible when draft day arrives. You can tell yourself you will take a running back in round X, a quarterback in round Y, and a wide receiver in round Z, but if you do that, we can almost guarantee you’ll miss out on some great options.

    For every person in your 12-team draft, there are bound to be 12 strategies. The person who decided to roll the dice late on Doug Martin scored huge. The person willing to sit and wait for Todd Gurley to contribute might have ridden him to a title. Blake Bortles was a guy most people avoided, but if you added him for depth, he was probably in your starting lineup by the end of the season.

    Fantasy football is far from predictable. You know the big names you draft early, but don’t reach if the running back you really wanted is gone. Find the best available elsewhere and circle back for a running back later. Every year we see numerous running backs emerge as late round picks or waiver wire additions. Don’t feel that you need to reach early.

    Below you’ll find our top 150 consensus rankings, along with each of our five expert’s personal rankings. There are some consensus top picks, and there are plenty of personal favorites. That’s the fun of fantasy football -- everyone has a different strategy.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Antonio Brown WR, Steelers Antonio Brown WR, Steelers Antonio Brown WR, Steelers Antonio Brown WR, Steelers Antonio Brown WR, Steelers
    2 Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants Julio Jones WR, Falcons Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants Julio Jones WR, Falcons Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants
    3 Julio Jones WR, Falcons Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants Julio Jones WR, Falcons DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans Todd Gurley RB, Rams
    4 Todd Gurley RB, Rams Todd Gurley RB, Rams Todd Gurley RB, Rams Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants Julio Jones WR, Falcons
    5 David Johnson RB, Cardinals DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans David Johnson RB, Cardinals A.J. Green WR, Bengals Doug Martin RB, Buccaneers
    6 DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans A.J. Green WR, Bengals Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings Todd Gurley RB, Rams Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings
    7 A.J. Green WR, Bengals Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans David Johnson RB, Cardinals A.J. Green WR, Bengals
    8 Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots David Johnson RB, Cardinals A.J. Green WR, Bengals Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs
    9 Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots Lamar Miller RB, Texans Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys
    10 Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans
    11 Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots
    12 Lamar Miller RB, Texans Lamar Miller RB, Texans Lamar Miller RB, Texans Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs David Johnson RB, Cardinals
    13 Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars Alshon Jeffery WR, Bears Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars Mike Evans WR, Buccaneers Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys
    14 Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars Jonathan Stewart RB, Panthers
    15 Mike Evans WR, Buccaneers Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs Jordy Nelson WR, Packers Jordy Nelson WR, Packers Brandon Marshall WR, Jets
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Antonio Brown WR, Steelers
    AW:Alex Welch: Antonio Brown WR, Steelers
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Antonio Brown WR, Steelers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Antonio Brown WR, Steelers
    DG:Derek Gordon: Antonio Brown WR, Steelers
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants
    AW:Alex Welch: Julio Jones WR, Falcons
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Julio Jones WR, Falcons
    DG:Derek Gordon: Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Julio Jones WR, Falcons
    AW:Alex Welch: Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Julio Jones WR, Falcons
    MG:Mike Gallagher: DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans
    DG:Derek Gordon: Todd Gurley RB, Rams
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Todd Gurley RB, Rams
    AW:Alex Welch: Todd Gurley RB, Rams
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Todd Gurley RB, Rams
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Odell Beckham Jr. WR, Giants
    DG:Derek Gordon: Julio Jones WR, Falcons
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: David Johnson RB, Cardinals
    AW:Alex Welch: DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans
    SK:Scott Kaliska: David Johnson RB, Cardinals
    MG:Mike Gallagher: A.J. Green WR, Bengals
    DG:Derek Gordon: Doug Martin RB, Buccaneers
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans
    AW:Alex Welch: A.J. Green WR, Bengals
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Todd Gurley RB, Rams
    DG:Derek Gordon: Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: A.J. Green WR, Bengals
    AW:Alex Welch: Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys
    SK:Scott Kaliska: DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans
    MG:Mike Gallagher: David Johnson RB, Cardinals
    DG:Derek Gordon: A.J. Green WR, Bengals
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots
    AW:Alex Welch: David Johnson RB, Cardinals
    SK:Scott Kaliska: A.J. Green WR, Bengals
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings
    AW:Alex Welch: Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Lamar Miller RB, Texans
    DG:Derek Gordon: Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys
    AW:Alex Welch: Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings
    DG:Derek Gordon: DeAndre Hopkins WR, Texans
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys
    AW:Alex Welch: Adrian Peterson RB, Vikings
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys
    DG:Derek Gordon: Rob Gronkowski TE, Patriots
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Lamar Miller RB, Texans
    AW:Alex Welch: Lamar Miller RB, Texans
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Lamar Miller RB, Texans
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs
    DG:Derek Gordon: David Johnson RB, Cardinals
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars
    AW:Alex Welch: Alshon Jeffery WR, Bears
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Mike Evans WR, Buccaneers
    DG:Derek Gordon: Dez Bryant WR, Cowboys
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs
    AW:Alex Welch: Ezekiel Elliott RB, Cowboys
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Allen Robinson WR, Jaguars
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jonathan Stewart RB, Panthers
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Mike Evans WR, Buccaneers
    AW:Alex Welch: Jamaal Charles RB, Chiefs
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jordy Nelson WR, Packers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jordy Nelson WR, Packers
    DG:Derek Gordon: Brandon Marshall WR, Jets

    Full Rankings ➤

  2. Quarterbacks

    There’s a changing of the guard underway at quarterback in the NFL. Peyton Manning has retired, while Tom Brady and Drew Brees are getting ever closer to the dreaded age of 40. Meanwhile, the younger talent (Cam Newton, Russell Wilson, Andrew Luck) have all emerged as new faces of the NFL. But rather than shrink away, the old gatekeepers continue playing at the top of their game, making quarterback one of the deeper positions in fantasy football.

    Due to the amount of high-caliber talent available, fantasy owners have multiple viable options. You can pay a premium for guys like Newton, Wilson or Aaron Rodgers and never have to worry about the position outside of the player’s bye week. Or you can wait until the middle-to-late rounds and find solid value in the form of Eli Manning, Philip Rivers and Kirk Cousins. Heck, you can probably punt the position entirely and get by on weekly streaming, so long as you make up for it with depth at other positions. There is almost no wrong draft strategy when it comes to quarterbacks ... unless you draft Mark Sanchez.

    That said, quarterback is not without its question marks this season. Let’s take a look at some of the bigger concerns:

    — Brady finally gave up and accepted his four-game DeflateGate suspension, knocking his fantasy value down considerably. Maybe you’re a believer in Jimmy Garoppolo, but we aren’t.

    — Tony Romo is coming off an injury-ruined season and his back is as concerning as ever at age 36. With Ezekiel Elliott in the fold, the Cowboys should double down on the running game, making Romo more of a matchup-dependant player than he was in 2014.

    — Carson Palmer stayed healthy, but he’s another year older and has his own long injury history. Last year’s meltdown in the NFC Championship won’t soon be forgotten.

    — Ben Roethlisberger missed four games with various injuries and is now 34. He won’t have Le’Veon Bell for four games and won’t have Martavis Bryant at all.

    — What exactly do we make of Luck, who was downright bad in the few games he was healthy last year?

    So there are a lot of gambles to take into consideration when picking your quarterback this season.

    If you’re looking for a rookie-year breakout, this is probably not the year (man, did we get spoiled by 2012). Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota were the top rookie quarterbacks last year, and they finished as Yahoo’s QB13 and QB22, respectively. Not exactly earth-shattering production. Among this year’s class, Jared Goff is the best bet to start in Week 1, but it’s hard to trust him in a Jeff Fisher offense with Todd Gurley getting all the work. Carson Wentz and Paxton Lynch could makes starts in 2016, but they have a lot of depth chart climbing to do first. All three men are better dynasty league investments than re-draft assets.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Cam Newton Cam Newton Cam Newton Cam Newton Aaron Rodgers
    2 Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers Aaron Rodgers Cam Newton
    3 Andrew Luck Andrew Luck Russell Wilson Russell Wilson Russell Wilson
    4 Russell Wilson Russell Wilson Andrew Luck Andrew Luck Drew Brees
    5 Carson Palmer Drew Brees Drew Brees Ben Roethlisberger Andrew Luck
    6 Ben Roethlisberger Carson Palmer Ben Roethlisberger Tom Brady Carson Palmer
    7 Philip Rivers Ben Roethlisberger Carson Palmer Drew Brees Blake Bortles
    8 Drew Brees Blake Bortles Eli Manning Carson Palmer Eli Manning
    9 Blake Bortles Philip Rivers Blake Bortles Philip Rivers Ben Roethlisberger
    10 Tom Brady Tom Brady Philip Rivers Blake Bortles Philip Rivers
    11 Kirk Cousins Eli Manning Tom Brady Eli Manning Derek Carr
    12 Tony Romo Tony Romo Tony Romo Tony Romo Tom Brady
    13 Derek Carr Kirk Cousins Derek Carr Marcus Mariota Tony Romo
    14 Eli Manning Derek Carr Kirk Cousins Tyrod Taylor Marcus Mariota
    15 Tyrod Taylor Tyrod Taylor Andy Dalton Kirk Cousins Kirk Cousins
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Cam Newton
    AW:Alex Welch: Cam Newton
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Cam Newton
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Cam Newton
    DG:Derek Gordon: Aaron Rodgers
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Aaron Rodgers
    AW:Alex Welch: Aaron Rodgers
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Aaron Rodgers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Aaron Rodgers
    DG:Derek Gordon: Cam Newton
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Andrew Luck
    AW:Alex Welch: Andrew Luck
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Russell Wilson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Russell Wilson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Russell Wilson
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Russell Wilson
    AW:Alex Welch: Russell Wilson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Andrew Luck
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Andrew Luck
    DG:Derek Gordon: Drew Brees
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Carson Palmer
    AW:Alex Welch: Drew Brees
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Drew Brees
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Ben Roethlisberger
    DG:Derek Gordon: Andrew Luck
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Ben Roethlisberger
    AW:Alex Welch: Carson Palmer
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Ben Roethlisberger
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Tom Brady
    DG:Derek Gordon: Carson Palmer
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Philip Rivers
    AW:Alex Welch: Ben Roethlisberger
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Carson Palmer
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Drew Brees
    DG:Derek Gordon: Blake Bortles
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Drew Brees
    AW:Alex Welch: Blake Bortles
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Eli Manning
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Carson Palmer
    DG:Derek Gordon: Eli Manning
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Blake Bortles
    AW:Alex Welch: Philip Rivers
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Blake Bortles
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Philip Rivers
    DG:Derek Gordon: Ben Roethlisberger
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Tom Brady
    AW:Alex Welch: Tom Brady
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Philip Rivers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Blake Bortles
    DG:Derek Gordon: Philip Rivers
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Kirk Cousins
    AW:Alex Welch: Eli Manning
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Tom Brady
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Eli Manning
    DG:Derek Gordon: Derek Carr
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Tony Romo
    AW:Alex Welch: Tony Romo
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Tony Romo
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Tony Romo
    DG:Derek Gordon: Tom Brady
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Derek Carr
    AW:Alex Welch: Kirk Cousins
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Derek Carr
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Marcus Mariota
    DG:Derek Gordon: Tony Romo
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Eli Manning
    AW:Alex Welch: Derek Carr
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Kirk Cousins
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Tyrod Taylor
    DG:Derek Gordon: Marcus Mariota
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Tyrod Taylor
    AW:Alex Welch: Tyrod Taylor
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Andy Dalton
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Kirk Cousins
    DG:Derek Gordon: Kirk Cousins

    Full Rankings ➤

  3. Running Backs

    Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Running back was once the top position of fantasy football, the alpha and omega. They scored all the touchdowns, they got all the important touches. Occasionally there was an otherworldly quarterback or wide receiver who sneaked into the first-round conversation, but for the most part you drafted a running back and that was that. Often you would draft two in a row. Running back used to be a big deal, is what I’m saying.

    But in 2016? The pendulum has completely shifted toward wide receivers. The NFL’s evolution toward the passing game has finally trickled down into fantasy football, to the point where the first-round running back is starting to be a thing of the past.

    In addition to the receivers breaking out, the three-down running back is in further decline these days. Only a handful of backs in the league can be truly described as a "workhorse" anymore, and nearly all of them come with question marks for the 2016 season. Let’s go over the six players currently going in the first round in standard leagues, per Fantasy Football Calculator.

    Todd Gurley. On paper, probably the most talented RB in football already, but he has an injury history and plays in an anemic Rams offense. Still, he has the fewest red flags among the elite tier.

    Adrian Peterson. 30 years old. We know Peterson isn’t actually human, but are you comfortable investing a top-five pick into a 30-year-old running back?

    David Johnson. Was a phenomenal playmaker in limited action last year, but Chris Johnson still lurks as a potential threat to early-down touches.

    Ezekiel Elliott. Everybody’s favorite rookie this year, but let’s pump the brakes on this hype train — you really shouldn’t be spending a first-round pick on a running back who has as many NFL carries as you do. Also he’s been dealing with hamstring problems in camp.

    Lamar Miller. Criminally underutilized in Miami, Miller should finally be unleashed in the Texans’ ball-control offense. "Should" is the operative word here, but I’m far more comfortable drafting Miller over Elliott.

    Le’Veon Bell. Suspended for the first four games. Knee ligament injuries continue to pile up.

    When you get to the second round, you see names like Devonta Freeman, Jamaal Charles, Eddie Lacy, Doug Martin and LeSean McCoy, all of whom are far more reasonable investments at that round. It’s easy to see why receivers are getting all the first-round love this year.

    This is not to say that running back is a worthless position now — you still have to start two every week in most formats, and they’re still an important part of fantasy teams. In fact, the sheer depth of this position means you can find starting-quality backs anywhere in the middle rounds. But gone are the days when you had to draft one first or you’re doomed.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Todd Gurley Todd Gurley Todd Gurley Todd Gurley Todd Gurley
    2 David Johnson David Johnson David Johnson David Johnson Doug Martin
    3 Adrian Peterson Lamar Miller Adrian Peterson Adrian Peterson Adrian Peterson
    4 Ezekiel Elliott Adrian Peterson Ezekiel Elliott Lamar Miller Jamaal Charles
    5 Lamar Miller Ezekiel Elliott Lamar Miller Jamaal Charles Ezekiel Elliott
    6 Jamaal Charles Jamaal Charles Jamaal Charles Ezekiel Elliott David Johnson
    7 Le'Veon Bell Mark Ingram Le'Veon Bell Mark Ingram Jonathan Stewart
    8 Doug Martin Doug Martin Mark Ingram Eddie Lacy Lamar Miller
    9 Mark Ingram Devonta Freeman Devonta Freeman Doug Martin Eddie Lacy
    10 C.J. Anderson Eddie Lacy Doug Martin C.J. Anderson LeSean McCoy
    11 Devonta Freeman Le'Veon Bell LeSean McCoy Le'Veon Bell Mark Ingram
    12 LeSean McCoy C.J. Anderson Eddie Lacy Devonta Freeman Le'Veon Bell
    13 Eddie Lacy LeSean McCoy C.J. Anderson Thomas Rawls Latavius Murray
    14 Thomas Rawls Thomas Rawls Carlos Hyde Latavius Murray Matt Jones
    15 Latavius Murray Latavius Murray Matt Forte LeSean McCoy Devonta Freeman
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Todd Gurley
    AW:Alex Welch: Todd Gurley
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Todd Gurley
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Todd Gurley
    DG:Derek Gordon: Todd Gurley
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: David Johnson
    AW:Alex Welch: David Johnson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: David Johnson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: David Johnson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Doug Martin
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Adrian Peterson
    AW:Alex Welch: Lamar Miller
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Adrian Peterson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Adrian Peterson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Adrian Peterson
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Ezekiel Elliott
    AW:Alex Welch: Adrian Peterson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Ezekiel Elliott
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Lamar Miller
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jamaal Charles
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Lamar Miller
    AW:Alex Welch: Ezekiel Elliott
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Lamar Miller
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jamaal Charles
    DG:Derek Gordon: Ezekiel Elliott
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Jamaal Charles
    AW:Alex Welch: Jamaal Charles
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jamaal Charles
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Ezekiel Elliott
    DG:Derek Gordon: David Johnson
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Le'Veon Bell
    AW:Alex Welch: Mark Ingram
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Le'Veon Bell
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Mark Ingram
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jonathan Stewart
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Doug Martin
    AW:Alex Welch: Doug Martin
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Mark Ingram
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Eddie Lacy
    DG:Derek Gordon: Lamar Miller
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Mark Ingram
    AW:Alex Welch: Devonta Freeman
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Devonta Freeman
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Doug Martin
    DG:Derek Gordon: Eddie Lacy
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: C.J. Anderson
    AW:Alex Welch: Eddie Lacy
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Doug Martin
    MG:Mike Gallagher: C.J. Anderson
    DG:Derek Gordon: LeSean McCoy
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Devonta Freeman
    AW:Alex Welch: Le'Veon Bell
    SK:Scott Kaliska: LeSean McCoy
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Le'Veon Bell
    DG:Derek Gordon: Mark Ingram
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: LeSean McCoy
    AW:Alex Welch: C.J. Anderson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Eddie Lacy
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Devonta Freeman
    DG:Derek Gordon: Le'Veon Bell
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Eddie Lacy
    AW:Alex Welch: LeSean McCoy
    SK:Scott Kaliska: C.J. Anderson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Thomas Rawls
    DG:Derek Gordon: Latavius Murray
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Thomas Rawls
    AW:Alex Welch: Thomas Rawls
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Carlos Hyde
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Latavius Murray
    DG:Derek Gordon: Matt Jones
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Latavius Murray
    AW:Alex Welch: Latavius Murray
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Matt Forte
    MG:Mike Gallagher: LeSean McCoy
    DG:Derek Gordon: Devonta Freeman

    Full Rankings ➤

  4. Running Backs - PPR

    In the ever-expanding world of fantasy football, PPR (points-per-reception) has emerged as one of the most popular formats, standing right up there with standard scoring, if not surpassing it outright.

    It’s important to pay attention to your league’s scoring system, because PPR can have a pretty big change in how running backs are rated. The players who get the biggest bump in PPR will naturally be the ones who play a big role in their team’s passing games, and players who head to the bench on passing downs will take a hit in our rankings.

    PPR is fun because it gives newfound value to players you might otherwise never consider drafting. Theo Riddick is kinda useless in standard leagues, but he turned 99 targets into 80 catches last season, making him a decent flex option in PPR. Likewise, Danny Woodhead was Philip Rivers’ most trusted back in the passing game and saw his role expand after Melvin Gordon flopped and later got injured.

    Fantasy PPR players eyeing a running back in the first round should look for the right combination of heavy workloads and passing-game chops. Luckily for them, David Johnson fits that description perfectly. After taking over as the Cardinals’ full-time back in Week 12, Johnson averaged 18 carries and 5.6 targets per game over the final five games, proving that he’s ready for a workhorse role. The presence of Chris Johnson may be a slight threat, but David will be heavily involved in Arizona’s passing game, making him an easy first-round PPR choice.

    Devonta Freeman is another high-tier player who gets a PPR boost after seeing 97 targets last year, finishing with 73 catches for 578 yards and three touchdowns. And if you’re looking for a slight value, look no further than Matt Forte, who can still play at age 30 and should fit perfectly in Chan Gailey’s spread offense. He’s almost a bargain at the end of the third or early fourth round.

    Also, don’t totally sleep on Le’Veon Bell. The four-game suspension is an obvious hit to his fantasy value, but in his last healthy season (2014) Bell had 105 targets, 83 catches and 854 receiving yards. He’ll be the clear-cut No. 1 PPR back when he comes back in Week 5. Just make sure you grab DeAngelo Williams if you take the plunge on Bell.

    As far as rookies go, C.J. Prosise could be a nifty PPR asset. Thomas Rawls didn’t do much in the passing game even before he broke his ankle (just 11 targets in 13 games), so look for Prosise to fill that spot in Seattle’s offense early on. In Oakland, DeAndre Washington could get some run with Latavius Murray failing to impress as an every-down runner. In Philadelphia, keep an eye on Wendell Smallwood, who caught 68 passes at West Virginia and has a chance to stand out in a muddled Eagles backfield.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 David Johnson David Johnson David Johnson David Johnson Todd Gurley
    2 Todd Gurley Todd Gurley Todd Gurley Todd Gurley Adrian Peterson
    3 Lamar Miller Lamar Miller Ezekiel Elliott Lamar Miller Doug Martin
    4 Ezekiel Elliott Ezekiel Elliott Lamar Miller Devonta Freeman Jamaal Charles
    5 Devonta Freeman Adrian Peterson Adrian Peterson Ezekiel Elliott Ezekiel Elliott
    6 Adrian Peterson Devonta Freeman Jamaal Charles Adrian Peterson David Johnson
    7 Jamaal Charles Jamaal Charles Devonta Freeman Jamaal Charles Jonathan Stewart
    8 Le'Veon Bell Mark Ingram Le'Veon Bell Doug Martin Lamar Miller
    9 Doug Martin Doug Martin Mark Ingram Eddie Lacy Eddie Lacy
    10 LeSean McCoy Le'Veon Bell LeSean McCoy C.J. Anderson LeSean McCoy
    11 C.J. Anderson LeSean McCoy Doug Martin Le'Veon Bell Devonta Freeman
    12 Mark Ingram Eddie Lacy Eddie Lacy Mark Ingram Le'Veon Bell
    13 Dion Lewis C.J. Anderson C.J. Anderson LeSean McCoy Latavius Murray
    14 Eddie Lacy Dion Lewis Dion Lewis Dion Lewis Matt Jones
    15 Matt Forte Matt Forte Matt Forte Matt Forte Mark Ingram
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: David Johnson
    AW:Alex Welch: David Johnson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: David Johnson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: David Johnson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Todd Gurley
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Todd Gurley
    AW:Alex Welch: Todd Gurley
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Todd Gurley
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Todd Gurley
    DG:Derek Gordon: Adrian Peterson
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Lamar Miller
    AW:Alex Welch: Lamar Miller
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Ezekiel Elliott
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Lamar Miller
    DG:Derek Gordon: Doug Martin
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Ezekiel Elliott
    AW:Alex Welch: Ezekiel Elliott
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Lamar Miller
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Devonta Freeman
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jamaal Charles
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Devonta Freeman
    AW:Alex Welch: Adrian Peterson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Adrian Peterson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Ezekiel Elliott
    DG:Derek Gordon: Ezekiel Elliott
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Adrian Peterson
    AW:Alex Welch: Devonta Freeman
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jamaal Charles
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Adrian Peterson
    DG:Derek Gordon: David Johnson
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Jamaal Charles
    AW:Alex Welch: Jamaal Charles
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Devonta Freeman
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jamaal Charles
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jonathan Stewart
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Le'Veon Bell
    AW:Alex Welch: Mark Ingram
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Le'Veon Bell
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Doug Martin
    DG:Derek Gordon: Lamar Miller
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Doug Martin
    AW:Alex Welch: Doug Martin
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Mark Ingram
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Eddie Lacy
    DG:Derek Gordon: Eddie Lacy
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: LeSean McCoy
    AW:Alex Welch: Le'Veon Bell
    SK:Scott Kaliska: LeSean McCoy
    MG:Mike Gallagher: C.J. Anderson
    DG:Derek Gordon: LeSean McCoy
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: C.J. Anderson
    AW:Alex Welch: LeSean McCoy
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Doug Martin
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Le'Veon Bell
    DG:Derek Gordon: Devonta Freeman
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Mark Ingram
    AW:Alex Welch: Eddie Lacy
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Eddie Lacy
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Mark Ingram
    DG:Derek Gordon: Le'Veon Bell
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Dion Lewis
    AW:Alex Welch: C.J. Anderson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: C.J. Anderson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: LeSean McCoy
    DG:Derek Gordon: Latavius Murray
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Eddie Lacy
    AW:Alex Welch: Dion Lewis
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Dion Lewis
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Dion Lewis
    DG:Derek Gordon: Matt Jones
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Matt Forte
    AW:Alex Welch: Matt Forte
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Matt Forte
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Matt Forte
    DG:Derek Gordon: Mark Ingram

    Full Rankings ➤

  5. Wide Receivers

    The times are changing in fantasy football. Running back, once the most important position in the game, has fallen into second-tier status, while wide receiver rose as the dominant position. Unlike years past when owners would automatically use their first or even their first two draft picks on a running back, this year you’re most likely taking a receiver in the first round.

    There are a number of reasons for this, the most prominent one being the NFL’s transformation into a passing league. But we’re also in a golden age of dominant, generational WR1 talents, with Antonio Brown, Julio Jones and Odell Beckham Jr. leading the way.

    In most standard leagues, Brown/Jones/Beckham will be the first three names off the draft board, and for good reason. Brown has taken up Calvin Johnson’s mantle as the best receiver in the game, finishing with 1,834 receiving yards last year. Had Ben Roethlisberger not missed multiple games with injury, Brown could’ve easily broken Megatron’s single-season record of 1,964. Squarely in his prime at age 28, Brown is an easy choice for overall WR1 in fantasy.

    Jones is a slight injury concern because his surgically repaired foot has caused him problems in the past, but the 27-year-old stayed healthy last season and set new career highs in catches (136) and yards (1,871). Offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan loves force-feeding targets to his No. 1 receiver, so Jones should continue seeing around 180 targets or so even with Mohamed Sanu in the mix.

    Beckham missed four games in 2014 and still had 1,305 yards and 13 touchdowns. He missed one game due to a suspension last season and still finished with 1,450 yards and 13 scores. Brown and Jones are probably the only fantasy receivers more consistent than Beckham, and the 23-year-old still has room for growth. If you get him any time after the third overall pick, you got a bargain.

    Even if you don’t get one of the big three, there is plenty of first-round worthy talent such as DeAndre Hopkins, A.J. Green, Allen Robinson and Dez Bryant. The second round should also be filled with clear WR1s like Jordy Nelson, Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Mike Evans. With running back a giant question mark this season, now’s the time to jump on the bounty of riches available at the wideout position.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Antonio Brown Antonio Brown Antonio Brown Antonio Brown Antonio Brown
    2 Odell Beckham Jr. Julio Jones Odell Beckham Jr. Julio Jones Odell Beckham Jr.
    3 Julio Jones Odell Beckham Jr. Julio Jones DeAndre Hopkins A.J. Green
    4 DeAndre Hopkins DeAndre Hopkins DeAndre Hopkins Odell Beckham Jr. Julio Jones
    5 A.J. Green A.J. Green A.J. Green A.J. Green DeAndre Hopkins
    6 Dez Bryant Dez Bryant Dez Bryant Dez Bryant Dez Bryant
    7 Mike Evans Allen Robinson Allen Robinson Mike Evans Brandon Marshall
    8 Jordy Nelson Alshon Jeffery Jordy Nelson Allen Robinson Allen Robinson
    9 Allen Robinson Mike Evans Mike Evans Jordy Nelson Alshon Jeffery
    10 Keenan Allen Jordy Nelson Alshon Jeffery Alshon Jeffery Jordy Nelson
    11 Alshon Jeffery Keenan Allen Brandon Marshall Keenan Allen Demaryius Thomas
    12 Amari Cooper Brandon Marshall Keenan Allen Brandon Marshall Mike Evans
    13 Brandon Marshall T.Y. Hilton Brandin Cooks Brandin Cooks Keenan Allen
    14 Brandin Cooks Brandin Cooks Amari Cooper Sammy Watkins Amari Cooper
    15 Demaryius Thomas Demaryius Thomas T.Y. Hilton Amari Cooper Brandin Cooks
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Antonio Brown
    AW:Alex Welch: Antonio Brown
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Antonio Brown
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Antonio Brown
    DG:Derek Gordon: Antonio Brown
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Odell Beckham Jr.
    AW:Alex Welch: Julio Jones
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Odell Beckham Jr.
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Julio Jones
    DG:Derek Gordon: Odell Beckham Jr.
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Julio Jones
    AW:Alex Welch: Odell Beckham Jr.
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Julio Jones
    MG:Mike Gallagher: DeAndre Hopkins
    DG:Derek Gordon: A.J. Green
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: DeAndre Hopkins
    AW:Alex Welch: DeAndre Hopkins
    SK:Scott Kaliska: DeAndre Hopkins
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Odell Beckham Jr.
    DG:Derek Gordon: Julio Jones
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: A.J. Green
    AW:Alex Welch: A.J. Green
    SK:Scott Kaliska: A.J. Green
    MG:Mike Gallagher: A.J. Green
    DG:Derek Gordon: DeAndre Hopkins
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Dez Bryant
    AW:Alex Welch: Dez Bryant
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Dez Bryant
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Dez Bryant
    DG:Derek Gordon: Dez Bryant
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Mike Evans
    AW:Alex Welch: Allen Robinson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Allen Robinson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Mike Evans
    DG:Derek Gordon: Brandon Marshall
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Jordy Nelson
    AW:Alex Welch: Alshon Jeffery
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jordy Nelson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Allen Robinson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Allen Robinson
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Allen Robinson
    AW:Alex Welch: Mike Evans
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Mike Evans
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jordy Nelson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Alshon Jeffery
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Keenan Allen
    AW:Alex Welch: Jordy Nelson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Alshon Jeffery
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Alshon Jeffery
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jordy Nelson
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Alshon Jeffery
    AW:Alex Welch: Keenan Allen
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Brandon Marshall
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Keenan Allen
    DG:Derek Gordon: Demaryius Thomas
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Amari Cooper
    AW:Alex Welch: Brandon Marshall
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Keenan Allen
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Brandon Marshall
    DG:Derek Gordon: Mike Evans
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Brandon Marshall
    AW:Alex Welch: T.Y. Hilton
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Brandin Cooks
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Brandin Cooks
    DG:Derek Gordon: Keenan Allen
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Brandin Cooks
    AW:Alex Welch: Brandin Cooks
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Amari Cooper
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Sammy Watkins
    DG:Derek Gordon: Amari Cooper
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Demaryius Thomas
    AW:Alex Welch: Demaryius Thomas
    SK:Scott Kaliska: T.Y. Hilton
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Amari Cooper
    DG:Derek Gordon: Brandin Cooks

    Full Rankings ➤

  6. Wide Receivers - PPR

    Wide receiver is now the biggest position in fantasy football, and PPR (points per reception) has emerged as one of the most popular scoring formats, so PPR wide receiver is arguably the most important position for owners to scour ahead of their fantasy drafts.

    The rise of pass-first offenses and three-wideout sets mean there are targets aplenty to go around, making this the richest, deepest position in the entire game. The NFL’s most elite receivers are now getting upwards of 180–200 targets a year, routinely turning in 120 or more catches.

    It’s actually a bit surprising that Marvin Harrison’s single-season receptions record (143 in 2002) is still standing after 14 years, but Antonio Brown and Julio Jones came closest last season when both finished with 136 catches. If both men stay healthy they’ll be in the running to break that record once again (Brown in particular, since extra targets are up for grabs after Martavis Bryant’s year-long suspension).

    Keenan Allen may have come close to that record — after eight games he was sitting on 67 catches, putting him on pace for 144. Unfortunately, a lacerated kidney ended his season early and the Chargers’ offense sputtered afterwards. Allen is back healthy and should be Philip Rivers’ most trusted weapon once again. I wouldn’t worry about Travis Benjamin siphoning away targets — he’s only there to fill Malcom Floyd’s spot as the deep-ball specialist. Allen is an easy pick at his second-round ADP.

    There isn’t much of a difference in our rankings at the top between standard and PPR. Brown, Jones, Odell Beckham Jr., DeAndre Hopkins and A.J. Green are all first-round picks no matter what your league’s scoring system is.

    Other receivers who benefit from the PPR bump include Jarvis Landry, Julian Edelman and Brandin Cooks, whose reception totals should outweigh their relative lack of yardage.

    Two of the top rookies this year are Corey Coleman and Sterling Shepard, who both have a path to Week 1 starting jobs. In Coleman’s case, the Browns simply don’t have anyone else to throw to until Josh Gordon gets back from his four-game suspension, giving him plenty of opportunity to establish himself. Shepard has been excelling in training camp and seems to have the inside track towards the No. 2 spot next to Beckham. Both players are worth taking a flyer on in the middle rounds.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Antonio Brown Antonio Brown Antonio Brown Antonio Brown Antonio Brown
    2 Odell Beckham Jr. Julio Jones Julio Jones Julio Jones Odell Beckham Jr.
    3 Julio Jones Odell Beckham Jr. Odell Beckham Jr. A.J. Green Julio Jones
    4 DeAndre Hopkins DeAndre Hopkins DeAndre Hopkins DeAndre Hopkins A.J. Green
    5 A.J. Green A.J. Green A.J. Green Odell Beckham Jr. DeAndre Hopkins
    6 Dez Bryant Dez Bryant Dez Bryant Dez Bryant Dez Bryant
    7 Keenan Allen Allen Robinson Allen Robinson Allen Robinson Brandon Marshall
    8 Allen Robinson Alshon Jeffery Keenan Allen Keenan Allen Allen Robinson
    9 Jordy Nelson Keenan Allen Alshon Jeffery Alshon Jeffery Alshon Jeffery
    10 Mike Evans Mike Evans Jordy Nelson Brandon Marshall Jordy Nelson
    11 Brandin Cooks Jordy Nelson Mike Evans Mike Evans Keenan Allen
    12 Julian Edelman Brandon Marshall Brandon Marshall Jordy Nelson Mike Evans
    13 Brandon Marshall Brandin Cooks Brandin Cooks Brandin Cooks Demaryius Thomas
    14 Alshon Jeffery T.Y. Hilton Amari Cooper T.Y. Hilton Brandin Cooks
    15 Amari Cooper Amari Cooper Demaryius Thomas Sammy Watkins Amari Cooper
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Antonio Brown
    AW:Alex Welch: Antonio Brown
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Antonio Brown
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Antonio Brown
    DG:Derek Gordon: Antonio Brown
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Odell Beckham Jr.
    AW:Alex Welch: Julio Jones
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Julio Jones
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Julio Jones
    DG:Derek Gordon: Odell Beckham Jr.
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Julio Jones
    AW:Alex Welch: Odell Beckham Jr.
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Odell Beckham Jr.
    MG:Mike Gallagher: A.J. Green
    DG:Derek Gordon: Julio Jones
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: DeAndre Hopkins
    AW:Alex Welch: DeAndre Hopkins
    SK:Scott Kaliska: DeAndre Hopkins
    MG:Mike Gallagher: DeAndre Hopkins
    DG:Derek Gordon: A.J. Green
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: A.J. Green
    AW:Alex Welch: A.J. Green
    SK:Scott Kaliska: A.J. Green
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Odell Beckham Jr.
    DG:Derek Gordon: DeAndre Hopkins
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Dez Bryant
    AW:Alex Welch: Dez Bryant
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Dez Bryant
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Dez Bryant
    DG:Derek Gordon: Dez Bryant
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Keenan Allen
    AW:Alex Welch: Allen Robinson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Allen Robinson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Allen Robinson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Brandon Marshall
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Allen Robinson
    AW:Alex Welch: Alshon Jeffery
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Keenan Allen
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Keenan Allen
    DG:Derek Gordon: Allen Robinson
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Jordy Nelson
    AW:Alex Welch: Keenan Allen
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Alshon Jeffery
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Alshon Jeffery
    DG:Derek Gordon: Alshon Jeffery
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Mike Evans
    AW:Alex Welch: Mike Evans
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jordy Nelson
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Brandon Marshall
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jordy Nelson
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Brandin Cooks
    AW:Alex Welch: Jordy Nelson
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Mike Evans
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Mike Evans
    DG:Derek Gordon: Keenan Allen
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Julian Edelman
    AW:Alex Welch: Brandon Marshall
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Brandon Marshall
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jordy Nelson
    DG:Derek Gordon: Mike Evans
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Brandon Marshall
    AW:Alex Welch: Brandin Cooks
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Brandin Cooks
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Brandin Cooks
    DG:Derek Gordon: Demaryius Thomas
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Alshon Jeffery
    AW:Alex Welch: T.Y. Hilton
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Amari Cooper
    MG:Mike Gallagher: T.Y. Hilton
    DG:Derek Gordon: Brandin Cooks
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Amari Cooper
    AW:Alex Welch: Amari Cooper
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Demaryius Thomas
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Sammy Watkins
    DG:Derek Gordon: Amari Cooper

    Full Rankings ➤

  7. Tight Ends

    New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is definitely your first tight end off the board. But when should you draft him? After Gronk, who’s the best option available? What about the tight ends returning from injury?

    Gronk continues to set the gold standard at the tight end position. He’s led the position in receiving yards the last two seasons and an outstanding 65 touchdowns in six seasons. Barring injury, he’ll lead tight ends in touchdowns and receiving yards again this season. If he falls to the second round in your draft, grab him. He’s worth being drafted in the first round but make sure it’s part of your overall draft strategy and not just a whim.

    If you miss out on Gronk, there are plenty of options available and you can wait until at least the middle of your draft to take one. You can’t go wrong with Jordan Reed, Greg Olsen or Travis Kelce. Reed comes with an injury risk but has serious receiving skills. He’s a favorite target of Kirk Cousins and it’s because he creates mismatches against safeties and linebackers. Olsen and Kelce are steady and reliable tight ends. They consistently post high totals of receptions and yards. Their weakness is a lack of a red zone presence.

    Tyler Eifert had his best season as a pro in 2015 and led all tight ends with 13 touchdowns. He missed three games last season and then suffered a serious ankle injury in the Pro Bowl. The Bengals have lost a lot of receiving talent, so Eifert will remain a key part of their passing game. Be wary because he’s questionable for Week 1. Jimmy Graham is returning from a torn patellar tendon. His move to Seattle has already been considered a disappointment and this injury has done him no favors. He’s expected to be ready for Week 1 and will be available at a steep discount. Ladarius Green signed with the Steelers in the offseason and immediately became their starting tight end. He missed the team’s whole offseason program but steps into an amazing Pittsburgh passing offense.

    A strategy that I’ve used with success is to stream the tight end position. If the matchups are not in your favor a certain week, grab a high-upside tight end off the wire. Will Tye, Charles Clay and Zach Miller should post some big games at certain times throughout the 2016 season.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Rob Gronkowski Rob Gronkowski Rob Gronkowski Rob Gronkowski Rob Gronkowski
    2 Jordan Reed Jordan Reed Jordan Reed Greg Olsen Greg Olsen
    3 Greg Olsen Greg Olsen Greg Olsen Travis Kelce Jordan Reed
    4 Travis Kelce Travis Kelce Travis Kelce Jordan Reed Travis Kelce
    5 Delanie Walker Tyler Eifert Delanie Walker Delanie Walker Coby Fleener
    6 Tyler Eifert Coby Fleener Coby Fleener Tyler Eifert Ladarius Green
    7 Coby Fleener Antonio Gates Tyler Eifert Ladarius Green Zach Ertz
    8 Zach Ertz Delanie Walker Gary Barnidge Coby Fleener Martellus Bennett
    9 Ladarius Green Julius Thomas Ladarius Green Zach Ertz Delanie Walker
    10 Julius Thomas Ladarius Green Zach Ertz Antonio Gates Gary Barnidge
    11 Antonio Gates Zach Ertz Julius Thomas Eric Ebron Julius Thomas
    12 Gary Barnidge Gary Barnidge Antonio Gates Julius Thomas Tyler Eifert
    13 Eric Ebron Eric Ebron Dwayne Allen Martellus Bennett Dwayne Allen
    14 Zach Miller Martellus Bennett Eric Ebron Gary Barnidge Antonio Gates
    15 Dwayne Allen Dwayne Allen Jimmy Graham Jason Witten Jason Witten
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Rob Gronkowski
    AW:Alex Welch: Rob Gronkowski
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Rob Gronkowski
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Rob Gronkowski
    DG:Derek Gordon: Rob Gronkowski
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Jordan Reed
    AW:Alex Welch: Jordan Reed
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jordan Reed
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Greg Olsen
    DG:Derek Gordon: Greg Olsen
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Greg Olsen
    AW:Alex Welch: Greg Olsen
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Greg Olsen
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Travis Kelce
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jordan Reed
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Travis Kelce
    AW:Alex Welch: Travis Kelce
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Travis Kelce
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jordan Reed
    DG:Derek Gordon: Travis Kelce
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Delanie Walker
    AW:Alex Welch: Tyler Eifert
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Delanie Walker
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Delanie Walker
    DG:Derek Gordon: Coby Fleener
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Tyler Eifert
    AW:Alex Welch: Coby Fleener
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Coby Fleener
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Tyler Eifert
    DG:Derek Gordon: Ladarius Green
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Coby Fleener
    AW:Alex Welch: Antonio Gates
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Tyler Eifert
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Ladarius Green
    DG:Derek Gordon: Zach Ertz
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Zach Ertz
    AW:Alex Welch: Delanie Walker
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Gary Barnidge
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Coby Fleener
    DG:Derek Gordon: Martellus Bennett
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Ladarius Green
    AW:Alex Welch: Julius Thomas
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Ladarius Green
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Zach Ertz
    DG:Derek Gordon: Delanie Walker
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Julius Thomas
    AW:Alex Welch: Ladarius Green
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Zach Ertz
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Antonio Gates
    DG:Derek Gordon: Gary Barnidge
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Antonio Gates
    AW:Alex Welch: Zach Ertz
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Julius Thomas
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Eric Ebron
    DG:Derek Gordon: Julius Thomas
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Gary Barnidge
    AW:Alex Welch: Gary Barnidge
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Antonio Gates
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Julius Thomas
    DG:Derek Gordon: Tyler Eifert
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Eric Ebron
    AW:Alex Welch: Eric Ebron
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Dwayne Allen
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Martellus Bennett
    DG:Derek Gordon: Dwayne Allen
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Zach Miller
    AW:Alex Welch: Martellus Bennett
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Eric Ebron
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Gary Barnidge
    DG:Derek Gordon: Antonio Gates
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Dwayne Allen
    AW:Alex Welch: Dwayne Allen
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Jimmy Graham
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Jason Witten
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jason Witten

    Full Rankings ➤

  8. D/ST

    Fantasy football is an unpredictable game, and defense/special teams might be the most unpredictable position of them all. The unit you draft will probably not be the unit you keep at the end of the season. Heck, you might even be on your third or fourth defense by the time the fantasy season wraps up.

    Due to the seemingly random nature of fantasy D/ST performances, you’re likely better off simply streaming through the season, picking and choosing defenses based on matchups, and even then it’s an inexact science at best. Unless you absolutely, positively need Seattle or Arizona’s defense, don’t waste an early draft pick on one. Shore up the depth at your other positions before you fill out your roster with defense and kickers.

    That said, we can take a look at each team’s defensive roster and make an educated guess as to how they’ll perform. Denver rode its amazing defense to a Super Bowl title last year, but Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan will be tough to replace. The Cardinals’ defense should be great again, but Tyrann Mathieu is coming off his second torn ACL. How much will losing Josh Norman hurt the Panthers, and should the Jets start getting worried about Darrelle Revis’ decline?

    Those are all questions worth considering when picking your defense, but in the heat of the draft moment, it probably won’t matter too much. Just go with your gut and stick with them for a few weeks, or at least until you find a better defensive matchup on the waiver wire. You probably won’t win a fantasy title with D/ST, but fielding a good one every week certainly won’t hurt your chances.

    Rank Dan Ciarrocchi Alex Welch Scott Kaliska Mike Gallagher Derek Gordon
    1 Denver Broncos Seattle Seahawks Seattle Seahawks Seattle Seahawks Denver Broncos
    2 Arizona Cardinals Denver Broncos Denver Broncos Denver Broncos Seattle Seahawks
    3 Seattle Seahawks Arizona Cardinals Arizona Cardinals Arizona Cardinals Arizona Cardinals
    4 Carolina Panthers Carolina Panthers Carolina Panthers Carolina Panthers Houston Texans
    5 St. Louis Rams St. Louis Rams St. Louis Rams Minnesota Vikings Carolina Panthers
    6 Minnesota Vikings Houston Texans Houston Texans New York Jets St. Louis Rams
    7 New York Jets Kansas City Chiefs Kansas City Chiefs St. Louis Rams New England Patriots
    8 Kansas City Chiefs Minnesota Vikings New England Patriots Cincinnati Bengals Minnesota Vikings
    9 Cincinnati Bengals Cincinnati Bengals Minnesota Vikings New England Patriots Kansas City Chiefs
    10 New England Patriots New England Patriots Cincinnati Bengals Kansas City Chiefs Cincinnati Bengals
    11 Houston Texans New York Jets New York Jets Buffalo Bills New York Jets
    12 Oakland Raiders Buffalo Bills Buffalo Bills Houston Texans Jacksonville Jaguars
    13 Buffalo Bills Pittsburgh Steelers Green Bay Packers Pittsburgh Steelers New York Giants
    14 Pittsburgh Steelers Oakland Raiders Pittsburgh Steelers Miami Dolphins Baltimore Ravens
    15 Green Bay Packers Miami Dolphins Philadelphia Eagles Oakland Raiders Miami Dolphins
    1
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Denver Broncos
    AW:Alex Welch: Seattle Seahawks
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Seattle Seahawks
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Seattle Seahawks
    DG:Derek Gordon: Denver Broncos
    2
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Arizona Cardinals
    AW:Alex Welch: Denver Broncos
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Denver Broncos
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Denver Broncos
    DG:Derek Gordon: Seattle Seahawks
    3
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Seattle Seahawks
    AW:Alex Welch: Arizona Cardinals
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Arizona Cardinals
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Arizona Cardinals
    DG:Derek Gordon: Arizona Cardinals
    4
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Carolina Panthers
    AW:Alex Welch: Carolina Panthers
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Carolina Panthers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Carolina Panthers
    DG:Derek Gordon: Houston Texans
    5
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: St. Louis Rams
    AW:Alex Welch: St. Louis Rams
    SK:Scott Kaliska: St. Louis Rams
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Minnesota Vikings
    DG:Derek Gordon: Carolina Panthers
    6
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Minnesota Vikings
    AW:Alex Welch: Houston Texans
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Houston Texans
    MG:Mike Gallagher: New York Jets
    DG:Derek Gordon: St. Louis Rams
    7
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: New York Jets
    AW:Alex Welch: Kansas City Chiefs
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Kansas City Chiefs
    MG:Mike Gallagher: St. Louis Rams
    DG:Derek Gordon: New England Patriots
    8
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Kansas City Chiefs
    AW:Alex Welch: Minnesota Vikings
    SK:Scott Kaliska: New England Patriots
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Cincinnati Bengals
    DG:Derek Gordon: Minnesota Vikings
    9
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Cincinnati Bengals
    AW:Alex Welch: Cincinnati Bengals
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Minnesota Vikings
    MG:Mike Gallagher: New England Patriots
    DG:Derek Gordon: Kansas City Chiefs
    10
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: New England Patriots
    AW:Alex Welch: New England Patriots
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Cincinnati Bengals
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Kansas City Chiefs
    DG:Derek Gordon: Cincinnati Bengals
    11
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Houston Texans
    AW:Alex Welch: New York Jets
    SK:Scott Kaliska: New York Jets
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Buffalo Bills
    DG:Derek Gordon: New York Jets
    12
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Oakland Raiders
    AW:Alex Welch: Buffalo Bills
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Buffalo Bills
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Houston Texans
    DG:Derek Gordon: Jacksonville Jaguars
    13
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Buffalo Bills
    AW:Alex Welch: Pittsburgh Steelers
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Green Bay Packers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Pittsburgh Steelers
    DG:Derek Gordon: New York Giants
    14
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Pittsburgh Steelers
    AW:Alex Welch: Oakland Raiders
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Pittsburgh Steelers
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Miami Dolphins
    DG:Derek Gordon: Baltimore Ravens
    15
    DC:Dan Ciarrocchi: Green Bay Packers
    AW:Alex Welch: Miami Dolphins
    SK:Scott Kaliska: Philadelphia Eagles
    MG:Mike Gallagher: Oakland Raiders
    DG:Derek Gordon: Miami Dolphins

    Full Rankings ➤

  9. Sleepers

    Every season, fantasy football features the usual list of notable names. This year, we'll hear how Antonio Brown, Adrian Peterson, Cam Newton, and Rob Gronkowski will carry your team to glory. While it is important to nail those early draft picks, fantasy football championships are won or lost in the middle and late rounds of the draft. Sleepers can be an overused phrase, but every year there are players who will surprise us all. A sleeper can be a complete unknown bursting out as a waiver wire pick-up, or it could a mid-round pick putting together first or second round production. We went through the big four positions to find the best sleepers heading into your 2016 fantasy football draft.

    Quarterbacks

    Philip RiversSan Diego Chargers

    If you drafted Rivers last year, you were probably doing well in the early going. However, receiver Keenan Allen suffering a season-ending kidney injury and tight end Antonio Gates missing four games last season hurt Rivers. In his final eight games, Rivers only had three games with multiple touchdowns to go with his two 300-plus yard game.

    The Chargers will have most of their passing attack ready to go while they might be more likely to pass the ball due to running back Melvin Gordon dealing with injuries and fumbling issues. The Chargers also added receivers Travis Benjamin and recently James Jones as Stevie Johnson insurance.

    Rivers also has a decent schedule to start the season. The Chargers start against the Kansas City Chiefs, Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints and Oakland Raiders. As long as he gets decent pass protection, Rivers should be a top-six QB to start off his season.

    Tyrod TaylorBuffalo Bills

    He’s probably one of the sexier "sleepers" out there and there’s a good chance he’ll be drafted as a top-10 quarterback in standard leagues. Taylor was second among quarterbacks (Cam Newton) for percentage of fantasy scoring output coming from rushing. That’ll help him have a higher floor most weeks when up against a tougher pass defense.

    His passing numbers were much better in the second half of the season, as well. In his final eight weeks, Taylor passed for 1,757 yards while throwing 10 passing touchdowns and only two interceptions. A lot of that has to do with receiver Sammy Watkins getting his legs under him for a strong finish.

    On the whole, his schedule isn’t the greatest on paper. He has a really had start against the Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals. Still, Tyrod looks like a nice high-upside option.

    Full qb Rankings ➤

    Running Backs

    Jonathan StewartCarolina Panthers

    Health is always a concern for Stewart, but as long as he takes the field, the keys to the backfield amid a prolific offense remain in his hands. Stewart quietly ranked 16th among running backs in total fantasy points as well as fantasy points per game in 2015, but on average, he is being drafted in the middle of the fifth round.

    The addition of Kelvin Benjamin to the Panthers’ lineup bodes well for the offense as a whole, which will only go as far as Cam Newton can take them. But as we’ve seen, Newton can take them incredibly far, and Stewart’s fantasy owners have reaped the benefits. Though Stewart’s career is on the decline, he is in position to provide a steady— if unsexy— RB2 option, and there isn’t an owner who wouldn’t want reliability at the running back position.

    Theo RiddickDetroit Lions

    Though Riddick is more of a boon in PPR formats, he is still being drafted incredibly late for what he’s been able to produce. Only Danny Woodhead had more targets than Riddick among running backs in 2015, and with Calvin Johnson retired, there’s no reason Matthew Stafford shouldn’t continue to look toward his checkdown option.

    Riddick was a legitimate RB2 in PPR formats in 2015 and is currently being drafted in the ninth round. Owners shouldn’t expect him to get many carries, but there is plenty of room for Riddick to put up fantasy points in an offense that called a higher percentage of passing plays than any other team in 2015.

    Full rb Rankings ➤

    Wide Receivers

    Markus WheatonPittsburgh Steelers

    Martavis Bryant is out for the year and Heath Miller is retiring. That's a combined 152 catches, 1,300 yards and nine total touchdowns in 2015 now gone. That's going to be spread around in the Steelers offense in some manner, meaning the No. 2 pass-catcher next to Antonio Brown could be in for a big season.

    The Steelers have been getting good production from the No. 2 receiver under Todd Haley, whether it was Emmanuel Sanders, Jerricho Cotchery, Markus Wheaton or the aforementioned Bryant. With Bryant out, Wheaton is the only other proven receiver ready to take on his production in 2016.

    Wheaton has made significant strides every year he's been in the NFL, not to mention this is a contract year for him. He came on late last season, making 28 grabs for 476 yards and four scores over the final seven games.

    However, Wheaton is still going in the Round 9 range in standard leagues. Guys like Marvin Jones, Sterling Shepard, DeVante Parker and Kevin White are going ahead of him. I expect Wheaton to outperform most, if not all of those aforementioned names in 2016.

    Tyler BoydCincinnati Bengals

    The Bengals are in need of another receiver to step up in their offense next to A.J. Green. Now that Marvin Jones is in Detroit and Mohamed Sanu in Atlanta, the team's No. 2 boundary receiver and No. 3 slot wideout jobs are up for grabs.

    The boundary job likely goes to Brandon LaFell, but he's rarely ever been someone who's produced enough to be a viable fantasy option. However, Tyler Boyd in the slot role may prove to be just that. The second-round pick out of Pitt is having a great camp and drawing praise from Andy Dalton.

    The Bengals run a lot of three-receiver sets, so even if Boyd is the third receiver behind Green and LaFell, the rookie still could be the No. 2 pass-catcher for this offense. He's currently being taken towards the end of drafts in standard and PPR leagues.

    While Boyd could be a sleeper in both formats, PPR is where his greatest value lies. Most of his damage in college was in the short and intermediate routes, not to mention that's where a lot of passes from Dalton end up.

    Full wr Rankings ➤

    Tight Ends

    Zach MillerChicago Bears

    For whatever reason, people are sleeping big time on Zach Miller entering this season. Despite reviving his career in 2015 after injuries appeared to have derailed it, Miller is still being taken towards the end of fantasy drafts.

    This, despite Miller catching 31 passes for 404 yards and five scores over his final eight games in 2015. That includes an average of six grabs for 70.3 yards over his final three games, making him a valuable PPR option.

    Miller's history of injuries and being 31 years old do make him a risky commodity, not to mention someone you probably should target as your second tight end. However, if he can stay healthy, Miller should become a tight end worthy of starting most weeks, depending on who your TE1 is.

    Vance McDonaldSan Francisco 49ers

    While the 49ers offense was a hot mess in 2015, Vance McDonald was a nice bright spot. McDonald opened the year as the No. 2 tight end behind Vernon Davis, which had been the case for most of McDonald's first three years in the NFL.

    But once Davis was traded to Denver last season, McDonald emerged as a solid contributor the rest of the season. He caught 21 passes for 262 yards and three scores. That came despite a concussion in Week 13 limiting him to him to just three grabs for 28 yards from Weeks 13-15.

    McDonald now enters 2016 on the final year of his rookie deal coming off his best season as a pro. He's currently being drafted in the Round 15 range of PPR leagues, and he's going undrafted completely in standard scoring leagues.

    While he's battling Garrett Celek for the No. 1 tight end role in San Francisco's offense, McDonald still has enough upside to make him a viable No. 2 tight end who could become a solid starter.

    Full te Rankings ➤

  10. Potential Busts

    If you have ever played fantasy football, it is safe to say you drafted a player that did not turn out the way they anticipated. It might not have cost you a championship, but it is always frustrating. Busts can develop for a variety of reasons. It can be a player who just turns out to be not nearly as good as some expected. It can also be a player who deals with injuries. Sometimes busts are predictable, and other times a player's descent into awfulness will catch you completely off guard. We took a look around the league heading into 2016, and projected some players at each position that could very well struggle this season.

    Quarterbacks

    Carson PalmerArizona Cardinals

    He could be a top-three quarterback, but there’s no denying his injury history. Before last season, Palmer only averaged just 11.8 games per season. He’s going to turn 36 in December, so his body won’t respond quickly to minor injuries like it may have in his 20s.

    Plus, the Cardinals figure to have a fantastic defense this season, especially if rookie defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche can get over his high-ankle sprain and turn in a great first season.

    The Cardinals are also expected to use a lot of second-year back David Johnson to drive their offense. Palmer should still be an elite fantasy QB per game, but the risk on the injury front is a little too high for his ADP.

    Blake BortlesJacksonville Jaguars

    There’s nothing wrong with Bortles at all and I’m not against drafting him completely. However, he’s going a little too high in most mocks I’ve seen so far. Yeah, Bortles improved his yards per attempt to 7.6 in the second half of the season with his 20 total scores and 2,367 yards in those eight games.

    I’ve seen him go as high as QB4 in some drafts and he almost always goes in the top 10. If he does fall to QB10-11, I’d be on board with him there.

    Full qb Rankings ➤

    Running Backs

    Carlos HydeSan Francisco 49ers

    Chip Kelly’s tenure ended in disaster with the Eagles, but his offenses ranked second, fifth and 12th in each of his three seasons in Philadelphia. That said, it’s hard to argue he will have as much talent to work with in San Francisco, and it’s even harder to argue that the 49ers offense will yield similar results. The quarterback position remains a mess with Blaine Gabbert at the helm, and it doesn’t get much better at the skill positions.

    Projecting Hyde as a fantasy bust isn’t a slight at him. It’s just difficult to imagine him getting many opportunities to score with this offense in place as well as six matchups against the formidable front sevens of the NFC West during the season. Factor in game scripts that could see the 49ers frequently trailing, and it doesn’t appear that there will be many chances for Hyde to tote the rock. Also, that offensive line? Woof.

    Though Hyde’s fourth-round average draft position isn’t particularly steep for a bell cow running back, it’s still too risky to pull the trigger here when players with better situations are likely to be had.

    Eddie LacyGreen Bay Packers

    This might come across as me having a grudge against Lacy, a player I admittedly had lots of stock in during the 2015 season. I’d still draft Lacy, but not in the middle of the second round where he is being targeted. Also, never have grudges in fantasy. You’ll always be wrong.

    Fantasy owners don’t need to be reminded what an ineffective season from Lacy looks like, and he has tons more to prove than other players being drafted after his ADP. An owner would be wise instead to address the running back position with Doug Martin, Mark Ingram or C.J. Anderson, who reemerged as the Broncos’ bell cow from Week 17 onward. All four of these players have higher average draft positions than Lacy, not to mention even more wide receivers owners would be better off gambling with.

    Full rb Rankings ➤

    Wide Receivers

    Jordan MatthewsPhiladelphia Eagles

    The Eagles were a mess at receiver in 2015 after watching Jeremy Maclin leave for Kansas City. While Jordan Matthews had his moments, he's still not someone you want to touch in your draft at his current ADP.

    Matthews had a golden opportunity to put up big numbers in 2015 with no other reliable receivers, but all he could muster was four games of 100-plus yards, and he failed to top 1,000 yards. That's production worthy of a middle or late-round draft pick, but not as high as a sixth-round pick in standard 12-team leagues.

    It's too big of an investment for a receiver that's rarely come up big, as evidenced by his seven 100-yard performances in 32 career games. The acquisition of Rueben Randle and Year 2 of Nelson Agholor should only ensure Matthews doesn't live up to his current ADP.

    Julian EdelmanNew England Patriots

    Take away his 2013 season, and Julian Edelman has never cracked 1,000 yards in a season. That hasn't kept the 30-year-old receiver from being drafted as high as Round 4, ahead of names like Jeremy Maclin, Doug Baldwin and Emmanuel Sanders.

    That range is where elite receivers who've consistently produced 1,000-yard seasons should go, something Edelman simply hasn't done. It doesn't help his case that the Patriots offense is loaded this year. Rob Gronkowski returning with the additions of Martellus Bennett, Chris Hogan and Malcolm Mitchell will only further hurt Edelman's production.

    Seeing Edelman still have such a high ADP makes him a prime bust candidate in 2016.

    Full wr Rankings ➤

    Tight Ends

    Gary BarnidgeCleveland Browns

    In fantasy football, one of the most dangerous types of prospects is the one-year wonder.

    The Browns offense relied heavily on Gary Barnidge in 2015, but not because he's an elite tight end. While his nine touchdowns and 1,043 yards suggest otherwise, that was his first season reaching as much as 300 yards or three scores in his eight years in the NFL.

    That came with no other viable pass-catcher on the roster, but now, Cleveland has Corey Coleman, three other drafted receivers, a healthy Andrew Hawkins, and Josh Gordon returning after a four-game suspension. All of this will ensure the Browns are more balanced and rely less on Barnidge.

    While he should still have a good year, it won't be one worthy of being one of the six or seven highest-drafted tight ends this year.

    Delanie WalkerTennessee Titans

    Sticking to the theme of one-year wonders in their 30s, while Delaine Walker was an elite tight end in 2015, expecting him to replicate that would be foolish. If you take away last year, Walker has never reached 900 yards, and he's only topped 400 yards twice.

    He took advantage of a Titans offense that had no viable pass-catchers last year, though Dorial Green-Beckham did emerge as the season wore on. Combine that with the signing of Rishard Matthews, Andre Johnson and Harry Douglas, don't expect Walker to be force fed nearly as much in 2016.

    Though he should be a decent starter, Walker is not someone who should be one of the first 4-6 tight ends drafted this year.

    Full te Rankings ➤

  11. Second Year Breakout Candidates

    Fantasy draft season is heating up and we’re all looking for the next big thing. Usually that means rookies, but what if the next big thing is actually a player entering their second season? Some hit the proverbial rookie wall and others barely saw the field due to injury. What will they do as sophomores? We take a look at 12 players who could break out in their second fantasy football campaign.

    Quarterbacks

    Marcus Mariota, Tennessee Titans

    Mariota was up and down in his 12 starts but his transition to the NFL was impressive. The knee sprains he suffered on two occasions caused him to miss four games and no doubt held him back.

    Mariota’s mobility and running ability enhance his value and should continue to supersize his fantasy numbers. The Titans receivers are talented but have yet to break out. With another offseason of experience, Mariota should improve the passing offense. The real help should come from the backfield additions of DeMarco Murray and Derrick Henry. They will take pressure off the passing game and help balance the offense.

    Running backs

    Duke Johnson, Cleveland Browns

    Hue Jackson will bring his Bengals offense to Cleveland and turn Johnson into a version of Giovani Bernard. The trouble Johnson faces is sharing the backfield with Isaiah Crowell. Crowell is the bigger back and might steal the majority of early-down carries.

    Johnson is an excellent receiver and has the ability to start, if Crowell goes down with an injury or disappoints. Despite sharing time, Johnson will go over 1,000 yards combined rushing/receiving and holds great value in PPR leagues. I’m fully in the mindset that Johnson’s numbers will go up in every single stat with Jackson running the offense.

    Melvin Gordon, San Diego Chargers

    He was a major disappointment as a rookie, fumbling six times and failing to score any touchdowns. The Chargers offensive line didn’t provide much help to Gordon at all. The Chargers rushing offense finished next-to-last in rushing yards in 2015. It didn’t help that they were playing from behind in the majority of games.

    The good news is that the team hasn’t brought in any competition at the position. The backfield remains Gordon, Danny Woodhead and Branden Oliver. The schedule is favorable with three of the worst rush defenses on tap. The veteran offense should bounce back and with increased balance, Gordon will have the opportunity to face some easier defensive fronts. Don’t expect much from Gordon in the passing game, as Woodhead remains a dynamic pass catcher.

    Wide receivers

    Breshad Perriman, Baltimore Ravens

    Another receiver that missed all of the 2015 season because of injury. Perriman is raw and could have definitely used a full season under his belt. During the 2016 season, he’ll look much like a rookie because of his developmental status. Sadly, the Ravens need him to perform more like a veteran.

    The upside is that he might receive a lot of playing time because he’s needed that badly. I feel Perriman will catch 30 balls for 400 yards and four touchdowns. Mike Wallace, Steve Smith and Kamar Aiken will take the majority of the targets to start the season, but watch out for Perriman in the second half of the season.

    Tyler Lockett, Seattle Seahawks

    Lockett is a speed demon and used that speed to score eight touchdowns last year. The Seahawks use him like a secret weapon and he hurts defenses in a multitude of ways. He’s not big, but some of the best receivers in the league are about the same size as him.

    It remains to be seen whether the Seattle offense will continue to lean a little more towards the pass. Regardless, I think Lockett will lead the Seahawks in receiving with 90 receptions, 1,050 yards and 11 touchdowns. Leagues that use return yards will boost Lockett’s value into a WR1.

    Full Rankings ➤

  12. Rookie Rankings

    Fantasy football managers around the country are preparing and coordinating their fantasy drafts, as we near the start of the 2016 regular season. For those in re-draft leagues, a new season means a new fantasy roster. For others, it's about the new additions to their rosters. Regardless, there's a new draft class for fantasy owners to pick from, but they're unproven as pros and fantasy assets. For some, expectations couldn't be higher. For others, it's about making a name for themselves. Either way, there is a lot of new talent to shake up fantasy drafts.

    Fantasy football itself is about projecting outcomes for any player, but rookies are a different breed. Until an NFL rookie takes his first steps on the field, we're working off of collegiate accomplishments, situation and opportunity. With that said, let's take a look at the rookies with the most potential heading into the 2016 NFL season.

    Ezekiel ElliottDallas Cowboys

    Elliot was drafted fourth overall in the 2016 draft. He's one of the most exciting rookie prospects in fantasy in quite some time, and for good reason. Elliot's combination of adept vision and decisiveness behind Dallas' top-tier offensive line is a recipe for fantasy gold. However, Ezekiel isn't without his fair share of risks for fantasy owners. He's currently battling a hamstring injury and is expected to miss at least the first week of the preseason. Meanwhile, Alfred Morris has been a reliable contributor when the ball is in his hands. Still, the Cowboys are eager to let their first-round pick shine in his first year, and all indications are that he can deliver. Elliot may even get selected in the first round of many re-draft leagues, which may be a bit rich for a rookie, but there's no denying he brings a high ceiling with him for his NFL debut.

    Sterling ShepardNew York Giants

    Shepard is one of the more desirable rookie receivers this year in fantasy. He has a noteworthy draft pedigree as the 40th overall pick, and he's entering a situation where his team is looking for an answer to complement Odell Beckham Jr. Shepard could easily be the No. 2 option for Eli Manning. Victor Cruz is looking for a comeback season, but patellar tendon injuries are difficult to completely recover from, and Cruz hasn't seen a regular season snap since 2014. Shepard should see plenty of snaps his rookie season, and he could be serviceable as a WR3 or better for fantasy owners.

    Corey ColemanCleveland Browns

    Coleman was widely touted as one of the top playmakers in the 2016 NFL Draft. He's a vertical threat that will likely find himself as the No. 1 option at wide receiver in Cleveland to start the season. Unfortunately, being the WR1 in Cleveland doesn't always equate to a significant fantasy reward these days. However, with coach Hue Jackson entering the mix, there could be more offensive success in Cleveland than we've seen in recent years. Coleman will be a WR3 to start the season, and there's tremendous upside even with Josh Gordon returning in October.

    Derrick HenryTennessee Titans

    Henry will likely find himself behind DeMarco Murray on the depth chart at the start of the 2016 season, but the second-round draft pick could find himself as the benefactor of a "hot hand" committee in Tennessee's backfield. Henry is a 6'3, 247-pound bruiser who has been compared to Brandon Jacobs. If anything else, Murray owners would be wise to grab Henry as an insurance policy.

    C.J. ProsiseSeattle Seahawks

    Marshawn Lynch is enjoying retirement, leaving Thomas Rawls and Prosise as the assumed ball carriers in Seattle. Rawls is still the favorite to start the season, but Prosise has plenty of opportunity to prove himself with Rawls mostly unproven as a consistent workhorse. Prosise will take over the role Fred Jackson had in 2015. Coincidentally, Prosise was compared to Jackson entering the 2016 draft. Prosise's biggest weakness is ball security. If coach Pete Carroll and his staff can mold Prosise into a more disciplined ball carrier, he has plenty of potential for a more significant timeshare in 2016. At the least, Rawls owners should snatch up Prosise as the team looks to find a consistent talent to replace Lynch moving forward.

    Full Rankings ➤

    In the world of fantasy football, drafting rookies is always risky business, especially in re-draft leagues. Keeper leagues and dynasty leagues offer the benefit of deeper foresight for your investment. For everyone else simply looking to capture a strong rookie performance for one season, it’s a bit more difficult. Regardless of the collegiate accolades and the draft pedigree of a player, the reality is that we’re taking a gamble on an unproven Pro.

    In 2016, we’re faced with a relatively weak class of quarterbacks and tight ends. Fortunately, the potential that wide receivers and running backs present this season make up for it.

    Let's take a look at each skill position, and consider which rookies are the best poised to become fantasy assets for your roster.

    Rank Quarterback Running Back Wide Recevier Tight End
    1 Jared Goff Ezekiel Elliott Sterling Shepard Austin Hooper
    2 Carson Wentz Derrick Henry Corey Coleman Hunter Henry
    3 Paxton Lynch C.J. Prosise Michael Thomas Nick Vannett
    4 Dak Prescott Kenneth Dixon Laquon Treadwell Tyler Higbee
    5 Cody Kessler Devontae Booker Will Fuller Jerell Adams
    QB
    1: Jared Goff
    2: Carson Wentz
    3: Paxton Lynch
    4: Dak Prescott
    5: Cody Kessler
    RB
    1: Ezekiel Elliott
    2: Derrick Henry
    3: C.J. Prosise
    4: Kenneth Dixon
    5: Devontae Booker
    WR
    1: Sterling Shepard
    2: Corey Coleman
    3: Michael Thomas
    4: Laquon Treadwell
    5: Will Fuller
    TE
    1: Austin Hooper
    2: Hunter Henry
    3: Nick Vannett
    4: Tyler Higbee
    5: Jerell Adams

    Full Rankings ➤

  13. The Biggest Offseason Transactions

    The NFL never sleeps, but you do. Fantasy leagues go dormant when the NFL playoffs begin and awaken the following August. While you were napping, several big names packed their bags and headed out in search of new opportunities.

    While you can't understate the importance of adding a new coach, introducing a promising rookie or upgrading an offensive line, let's focus on the player movement that will directly affect your fantasy drafts this year.

    Lamar Miller's new team may equal a career season

    Those clamoring to "Free Lamar Miller" may have their prayers answered, as he signed with the the Texans this offseason. The former Dolphin had an incredible year in 2015, but the nagging question remains: Why did he have so many games with single-digit rushing attempts throughout his career in Miami? A question that may be ultimately answered as no one ran the ball less than Miami and only five teams ran the ball more than the Texans last season. There's little reason to believe Miller won't reach career highs in rushing attempts and his skills as a receiver should keep him in the game during passing downs.

    Despite the mystery of his limited touches, Miller is going to be a first-round pick in most fantasy leagues, and will be especially attractive in PPR formats. He'll certainly benefit from having a wide receiver like DeAndre Hopkins (should he not hold out) taking pressure off the run game. Now, if the Texans could just figure out the QB situation...

    Marvin Jones and Anquan Boldin attempt to replace Megatron

    Calvin Johnson's retirement leaves a void in Detroit's offense, which seemed to be improving after Jim Bob Cooter took over as coordinator at midseason. Marvin Jones, a speedster with a 10-touchdown season on his resume, split snaps with A.J. Green and Tyler Eifert in Cincinnati. His size and speed make him a name to keep in mind when looking for a WR3 with legit upside.

    Anquan Boldin joins the Lions and should help with short to intermediate routes, opening things up for Jones and Golden Tate. His arrival may do more to hurt tight end Eric Ebron's numbers than those of his fellow wideouts.

    Former fantasy stud running backs enter their 30s

    It seems that no matter their efforts, once running backs hit 30 years old they are labeled as damaged goods with a high probability for regression. Matt Forte technically entered the 30 club last December in a season that saw him quietly finish as top-10 running back. He will lead the Jets’ rushing attack and has one of the best wide receiver duos to help keep defenses honest. Still, Bilal Powell is around to vulture snaps and likely some passing-down work from him in New York. Forte's versatility should give him adequate opportunities to produce top-level RB2 numbers, but a return to the top 10 is a tall order.

    Full Rankings ➤

  14. Bye Week Implications

    You’ve finally figured out your draft strategy. You’ve anticipated any roadblocks you may face as you attempt to assemble the ideal roster that will establish the foundation for your 2016 fantasy season. However, there’s always that one piece of the puzzle that was overlooked during the chaotic celebration that is your fantasy football draft.

    Perhaps you forgot about a critical handcuff that could serve as a crucial insurance policy for your elite running back. Perhaps you forgot about a lingering ailment with your veteran wide receiver that could decimate your lineup if it meant he lost significant time. Or, perhaps, you simply forgot about bye weeks.

    It's rare that a bye week can ruin your fantasy season. In fact, it's almost not worth dwelling on as you assemble your roster. However, it shouldn't be completely overlooked.

    As you enter your fantasy draft, awareness is the key. Don't let a bye week scare you from drafting a player that could be the difference maker on your roster, but don't completely ignore your bye weeks. It's important to be prepared. Have some idea of how you want to handle your player's bye week, and adjust accordingly.

    Bye weeks begin in Week 4 of the 2016 season and end after Week 13. We're here to break down the key players for each week.

    Week 4: Packers, Eagles

    Quarterbacks: Aaron Rodgers, Sam Bradford
    Running backs: Eddie Lacy, Ryan Mathews
    Wide receivers: Jordy Nelson, Jordan Matthews
    Tight ends: Jared Cook, Zach Ertz

    Week 5: Jaguars, Chiefs, Saints, Seahawks

    Quarterbacks: Black Bortles, Alex Smith, Drew Brees, Russell Wilson
    Running backs: Chris Ivory, T.J. Yeldon, Jamaal Charles, Mark Ingram, Thomas Rawls
    Wide receivers: Allen Robinson, Allen Hurns, Jeremy Maclin, Willie Snead, Brandin Cooks, Doug Baldwin, Tyler Lockett
    Tight ends: Julius Thomas, Travis Kelce, Coby Fleener, Jimmy Graham

    Week 6: Vikings, Buccaneers

    Quarterbacks: Teddy Bridgewater, Jameis Winston
    Running backs: Adrian Peterson, Doug Martin
    Wide receivers: Stefon Diggs, Vincent Jackson, Mike Evans
    Tight ends: Kyle Rudolph, Austin Seferian-Jenkins

    Week 7: Panthers, Cowboys

    Quarterbacks: Cam Newton, Tony Romo
    Running backs: Ezekiel Elliot, Jonathan Stewart
    Wide receivers: Kelvin Benjamin, Dez Bryant
    Tight ends: Greg Olsen, Jason Witten

    Week 8: Ravens, Rams, Dolphins, Giants, Steelers, 49ers

    Quarterbacks: Joe Flacco, Eli Manning, Ben Roethlisberger
    Running backs: Justin Forsett, Todd Gurley, Arian Foster, Jay Ajayi, Rashad Jannings, Le’Veon Bell, Carlos Hyde
    Wide receivers: Kamar Aiken, Mike Wallace, DeVante Parker, Jarvis Landry, Odell Beckham Jr., Antonio Brown
    Tight ends: Jordan Cameron, Ladarius Green, Vance McDonald

    Week 9: Cardinals, Bears, Bengals, Texans, Patriots, Washington

    Quarterbacks: Carson Palmer, Jay Cutler, Andy Dalton, Tom Brady
    Running backs: David Johnson, Jeremy Langford, Jeremy Hill, Giovani Bernard, Lamar Miller, LeGarrette Blount, James White, Matt Jones
    Wide receivers: Larry Fitzgerald, John Brown, Michael Floyd, Alshon Jeffery, Kevin White, A.J. Green, DeAndre Hopkins, Julian Edelman, DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon
    Tight ends: Zach Miller, Tyler Eifert, Rob Gronkowski, Jordan Reed

    Week 10: Bills, Lions, Colts, Raiders

    Quarterbacks: Tyrod Taylor, Matthew Stafford, Andrew Luck, Derek Carr
    Running backs: LeSean McCoy, Ameer Abdullah, Theo Riddick, Frank Gore, Latavius Murray
    Wide receivers: Sammy Watkins, Golden Tate, Marvin Jones, T.Y. Hilton, Donte Moncrief, Michael Crabtree, Amari Cooper
    Tight ends: Charles Clay, Eric Ebron, Dwayne Allen

    Week 11: Falcons, Broncos, Jets, Chargers

    Quarterbacks: Matt Ryan, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Philip Rivers
    Running backs: Devonta Freeman, C.J. Anderson, Ronnie Hillman, Matt Forte, Melvin Gordon, Danny Woodhead
    Wide receivers: Julio Jones, Demaryius Thomas, Emmanuel Sanders, Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker, Keenan Allen, Travis Benjamin
    Tight ends: Antonio Gates

    Week 13: Browns, Titans

    Quarterbacks: Robert Griffin III, Marcus Mariota
    Running backs: Isaiah Crowell, DeMarco Murray
    Wide receivers: Corey Coleman, Josh Gordon, Kendall Wright
    Tight ends: Gary Barnidge, Delanie Walker

    Full Rankings ➤