What is the Worst Draft Position in Fantasy Football? And Why Does It Feel Like Picking Last in a Pizza Line?

What is the Worst Draft Position in Fantasy Football? And Why Does It Feel Like Picking Last in a Pizza Line?

Fantasy football is a game of strategy, luck, and sometimes, frustration. One of the most debated topics among fantasy enthusiasts is: what is the worst draft position in fantasy football? The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on league settings, scoring formats, and personal preferences. However, the general consensus is that the middle-to-late draft positions (picks 7-12 in a 12-team league) can feel like the most challenging spots to navigate. Let’s dive into why this is the case and explore the nuances of draft positioning.


The Case Against the Middle-to-Late Draft Positions

1. The Elite Talent Gap

In most fantasy football drafts, the first few picks are reserved for the league’s elite players—think Christian McCaffrey, Justin Jefferson, or Travis Kelce. By the time you reach picks 7-12, these top-tier players are often off the board. This leaves you with solid but less explosive options, forcing you to make tough decisions early on. It’s like being stuck with the last slice of pizza when everyone else got the gooey, cheesy center.

2. The “Dead Zone” Running Backs

One of the biggest challenges in the middle-to-late draft positions is navigating the running back “dead zone.” This refers to the range of running backs drafted in rounds 3-6 who often fail to live up to their ADP (Average Draft Position). Players in this range might have upside, but they also come with significant risk. For example, a running back like Cam Akers might look enticing in the fourth round, but his inconsistency could leave you scrambling for replacements mid-season.

3. The Turn Dilemma

Picking at the turn (the end of a round) can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you get back-to-back picks, allowing you to address multiple positions quickly. On the other hand, you have to wait a long time before your next selection, which can feel like an eternity in a fast-paced draft. This long wait can lead to overthinking and second-guessing your choices.

4. The Pressure to Reach

When you’re drafting in the middle-to-late positions, there’s often pressure to “reach” for players you like. For example, if you’re eyeing a specific wide receiver in the third round, you might feel compelled to take him earlier than his ADP suggests, just to ensure you get him. This can lead to suboptimal value and leave you with a weaker overall roster.

5. The Lack of Control

Drafting in the middle of the pack means you have less control over the flow of the draft. You’re at the mercy of the managers picking before you, and you can’t always predict which players will fall to you. This lack of control can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to execute a specific draft strategy.


Strategies to Overcome the Worst Draft Position

While drafting in the middle-to-late positions can be challenging, it’s not a death sentence. Here are some strategies to help you make the most of your draft:

1. Embrace the Zero RB Strategy

If you’re stuck with a late draft position, consider embracing the Zero RB strategy. This approach involves loading up on elite wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks early in the draft and waiting to address the running back position until the middle rounds. While this strategy carries some risk, it can pay off if you hit on late-round running backs or find value on the waiver wire.

2. Target High-Upside Players

In the middle-to-late rounds, focus on drafting players with high upside. Look for breakout candidates, rookies with potential, or veterans in new situations. For example, a player like Jahan Dotson might not be a household name, but he could emerge as a reliable WR2 if things break right.

3. Be Flexible with Your Strategy

One of the keys to success in fantasy football is adaptability. Don’t lock yourself into a specific strategy before the draft. Instead, be prepared to pivot based on how the draft unfolds. If running backs are flying off the board early, don’t be afraid to shift your focus to other positions.

4. Trade Down

If you’re really unhappy with your draft position, consider trading down. In some leagues, managers are willing to swap draft picks for additional assets. Trading down can give you more flexibility and allow you to accumulate more picks in the middle rounds.


The Psychological Aspect of Drafting Late

Let’s not overlook the psychological toll of drafting in the middle-to-late positions. It’s easy to feel like you’re at a disadvantage before the draft even starts. However, it’s important to remember that fantasy football is a marathon, not a sprint. A strong draft is just the first step—waiver wire management, trades, and lineup decisions are equally important.


FAQs

1. Is the first overall pick always the best?

Not necessarily. While the first pick gives you access to an elite player, it also means you have to wait a long time before your next selection. This can make it difficult to build a balanced roster.

2. What’s the best draft position in fantasy football?

Many experts believe that picks 3-6 offer the best balance of elite talent and flexibility. These positions allow you to snag a top-tier player while still having reasonable access to quality options in the middle rounds.

3. Can you win from the worst draft position?

Absolutely. While drafting in the middle-to-late positions can be challenging, it’s still possible to build a championship-caliber team. Success in fantasy football depends on a combination of draft strategy, in-season management, and a little bit of luck.

4. Should I avoid drafting a quarterback early?

It depends on your league settings and scoring format. In standard leagues, it’s generally better to wait on a quarterback and focus on loading up at running back and wide receiver. However, in superflex or two-quarterback leagues, drafting an elite QB early can be a smart move.

5. How important is ADP in fantasy football?

ADP is a useful tool for gauging player value, but it shouldn’t be the sole factor in your decision-making. Always consider a player’s upside, situation, and fit within your overall strategy.


In conclusion, while the middle-to-late draft positions in fantasy football can feel like the worst spots to be in, they also present unique opportunities for creative strategies and bold moves. With the right approach, you can turn a seemingly disadvantageous position into a winning roster. After all, fantasy football is as much about the journey as it is about the destination—and sometimes, the underdog story is the most satisfying of all.