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Fantasy football draft cheat sheet: Top players for 2024, ranked by position
As the 2024 fantasy football draft approaches, it’s crucial to have a cheat sheet to guide your selections and help you build a winning roster. This cheat sheet provides a comprehensive list of top players for the 2024 season, ranked by position, to help you navigate your draft effectively. We’ll cover quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, and defenses/special teams.
Quarterbacks (QBs):
- Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
- Why: Mahomes is consistently one of the top fantasy QBs thanks to his explosive arm and playmaking ability. With a high-powered offense and elite receiving weapons, he’s a reliable choice for your QB1 spot.
- Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
- Why: Allen’s dual-threat capability—combining his strong arm with his rushing ability—makes him a top fantasy performer. Expect high yardage and touchdown totals both through the air and on the ground.
- Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles
- Why: Hurts’ rushing upside and improved passing game make him a fantasy powerhouse. He provides excellent value with his ability to score touchdowns with his legs and arm. footballfootballfootballfootball
- Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals
- Why: Burrow is a strong pocket passer with a talented receiving corps. His ability to rack up passing yards and touchdowns makes him a solid choice for any fantasy lineup.
- Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
- Why: Herbert’s arm strength and accuracy make him a top fantasy option. With a talented receiving group and an aggressive offensive scheme, he’s poised for a big year.
Running Backs (RBs):
- Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers
- Why: McCaffrey’s dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver gives him the highest ceiling at RB. His usage in the 49ers’ versatile offense makes him a must-have.
- Austin Ekeler, Los Angeles Chargers
- Why: Ekeler is a PPR (points per reception) machine with his exceptional receiving skills out of the backfield. His role in the Chargers’ offense makes him an elite RB choice.
- Derrick Henry, Tennessee Titans
- Why: Henry remains a dominant force in the running game. His size and speed make him a consistent TD threat, and he should see plenty of carries.
- Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons
- Why: The rookie sensation Robinson is expected to make an immediate impact with his combination of speed, power, and receiving ability. He’s a high-upside pick for 2024.
- Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
- Why: Barkley is a dynamic runner and receiver who is central to the Giants’ offense. His ability to break big plays and contribute in the passing game keeps him in the top tier of RBs.
Wide Receivers (WRs):
- Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings
- Why: Jefferson is an elite receiver with exceptional route-running and catching ability. His connection with QB Kirk Cousins and consistent high production makes him the top WR.
- Tyreek Hill, Miami Dolphins
- Why: Hill’s speed and playmaking ability offer massive upside each week. He’s a game-changer who can deliver huge points through big plays and deep targets.
- Davante Adams, Las Vegas Raiders
- Why: Adams remains one of the top WRs due to his route-running, hands, and red-zone ability. Despite the quarterback situation, his skill set keeps him at the top.
- Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals
- Why: Chase’s big-play ability and strong chemistry with QB Joe Burrow make him a top fantasy receiver. Expect plenty of deep targets and explosive performances.
- A.J. Brown, Philadelphia Eagles
- Why: Brown’s combination of size and speed, along with a strong connection with QB Jalen Hurts, makes him a top WR option. He’s a major threat in both short and deep routes.
Tight Ends (TEs):
- Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs
- Why: Kelce remains the premier fantasy tight end due to his consistent production and role in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense. He’s a top target for QB Patrick Mahomes.
- Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens
- Why: Andrews is the primary receiving option for the Ravens and a reliable red-zone target. His connection with QB Lamar Jackson ensures steady fantasy points.
- George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers
- Why: Kittle’s athleticism and playmaking ability make him a top fantasy TE. His role in a dynamic offense helps him deliver strong weekly performances.
- Darren Waller, New York Giants
- Why: Waller’s size and athleticism make him a top target in the Giants’ offense. He’s a reliable option with high receiving upside.
- Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons
- Why: Pitts has immense potential due to his receiving skills and athleticism. Although he’s had some inconsistency, his upside makes him a high-value pick at TE.
Defenses/Special Teams (DST):
- San Francisco 49ers
- Why: The 49ers’ defense is strong across the board, with a formidable pass rush and a solid secondary. They consistently generate turnovers and limit opponent scoring.
- Buffalo Bills
- Why: The Bills’ defense excels in both pass rush and coverage. Their ability to force turnovers and contain opponents makes them a top DST option.
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Why: The Eagles have a well-rounded defense with a strong pass rush and playmakers in the secondary. They’re capable of scoring points through turnovers and sacks.
- Baltimore Ravens
- Why: The Ravens’ defense is known for its aggressive play and ability to create turnovers. They are a reliable choice for consistent fantasy points.
- Dallas Cowboys
- Why: The Cowboys’ defense features a strong pass rush and a playmaking secondary. Their ability to generate sacks and turnovers makes them a valuable fantasy DST.
Conclusion:
As you prepare for your 2024 fantasy football draft, this cheat sheet provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions. By focusing on the top players at each position, you can build a competitive roster and set yourself up for success. Remember to stay updated on player news and injuries, as these factors can significantly impact fantasy performance throughout the season. Happy drafting!
