On August 8th, six members of the Footballguys Staff, along with six highly regarded writers in the fantasy football community, got together to complete a 12-team, 20-round, Superflex with PPR, Best Ball scoring format. Before the draft, each of the participants answered questions regarding strategies, players they coveted and how they plan to attack the draft. Additional questions were asked at the conclusion of the draft based on the decisions they made. To top it off, Footballguys' Devin Knotts will provide an evaluation of each team's roster strengths and weaknesses, chronicling the strategies and decisions that were made by each participant.
The goal of this article is to give you a look into the minds of fantasy experts throughout the entire draft process. This includes preparation, decision making, and execution. What was their plan? Did they follow it? Why did they make the decisions they made? Some drafters had similar strategies and players of interest, but how they executed their plan and built their roster, varied from person to person.
We hope you will uncover or discover a strategy that might work for you in your draft(s) this year. Learn what players the experts are targeting and why. At Footballguys, when you win, we win! If we can help give you the tools and know-how to build a winning team, we've done our job.
LEAGUE PARAMETERS
Best Ball format - Each week, your top scoring players on your roster automatically start and will count toward your season total. The team with the most points at the end of the season wins. Top scores from the starting positions will count for your weekly score.
- 12 teams
- 20 roster spots
- Starting Lineup
- 1 quarterback
- 2 running backs
- 2 wide receivers
- 1 tight end
- 2 flex (one flex can be a QB, the other either a running back, wide receiver, or tight end)
- 1 Defense
LEAGUE SCORING
- Offensive Players Only
- 4 points - Passing Touchdown
- 6 points - Rushing/Receiving Touchdown
- 0.04 points - Passing Yard
- 0.1 points - Rushing/Receiving Yard
- 1.0 point - Reception (QB, RB, WR)
- -2 points - Fumble lost
- -2 points - Interception Thrown
- 2 - Two-Point Conversion (rush, pass or receive)
- 6 - Number of Defensive and Special Teams Touchdowns
- Defense scoring
- 2 points - fumble recovery
- 2 points - interception caught
- 1 point - sacked quarterback
- 5 points - safety
- 10 points - 0 points allowed
- 7 points - 1-6 points allowed
- 3 points - 7-10 points allowed
- 0 points - 15-20 points allowed
- -3 points - 21-99 points allowed
- 6 points - Defensive or Special Teams Touchdown
DRAFT PARTICIPANTS
- Jeff Tefertiller
- Brandon Marianne Lee
- Jason Wood
- Dennis Esser
- Chet Gresham
- Phil Alexander
- Heath Cummings
- Justin Bonnema
- Justin Lonero
- Ryan Hester
- Jeff Haseley
- Mike Tanier
DRAFT GRId
DRAFT SLOT 1
Jeff Tefertiller, Footballguys - Bio
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
4 quarterbacks, 5 running backs, 7 wide receivers, 2 tight ends and 2 defenses
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I plan to hit the position hard (beginning with the 2/3 turn) getting 2 at the position in the first 5-6 rounds
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Rivers/Roethlisberger/Keenum/Cousins
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
Wide receiver - At a minimum, upside players like Fuller, Ross, and Wallace
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
I plan to target Reed or Walker in the middle rounds. If I miss out on both, I expect to wait and target Watson and Kittle
6. Discuss drafting from the #1 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
Having the 1.01, I will start with a running back, then I plan on taking a quarterback and either another running back or quarterback at 3.01. At the 4/5 turn, I expect to take my first wide receiver. If a top-end receiver drops to 2.12, he will be in consideration.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
Buy strongly if posing value (Edelman/Aaron Jones/Winston, etc). These rosters are deep enough to stash a starter for a few weeks since all three will be back before bye weeks are in full swing. For example, nabbing Jones and either Jamaal Williams or Ty Montgomery offers upside at a value. So does Winston/Fitzpatrick.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
3 quarterbacks, 3 running backs, 3 wide receivers, and 1 tight end.
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
Marquise Goodwin, Case Keenum, Aaron Jones, Robby Anderson, and Corey Clement
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
- QB: Ryan Fitzpatrick - Get 3 starts to begin the season
- RB: Matt Breida - I think he is the superior back to McKinnon
- WR: Chris Godwin - Talk of him starting opposite Evans, instead of DeSean Jackson
- TE: Ben Watson - Was a top-end TE two years ago in New Orleans and still finished a fantasy starter last year in Baltimore. Undervalued due to age.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
Two defenses with soft schedules and different bye weeks. I will not target the elite defenses.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.01
|
1
|
RB
|
ARI
|
|
2.12
|
24
|
RB
|
WAS
|
|
3.01
|
25
|
RB
|
LeSean McCoy
|
BUF
|
4.12
|
48
|
QB
|
PHI
|
|
5.01
|
49
|
WR
|
Alshon Jeffery
|
PHI
|
6.12
|
72
|
QB
|
LAC
|
|
7.01
|
73
|
WR
|
NEP
|
|
8.12
|
96
|
WR
|
Robby Anderson
|
NYJ
|
9.01
|
97
|
RB
|
GBP
|
|
10.12
|
120
|
RB
|
Ty Montgomery
|
GBP
|
11.01
|
121
|
WR
|
Jordy Nelson
|
OAK
|
12.12
|
144
|
WR
|
CIN
|
|
13.01
|
145
|
TE
|
Jack Doyle
|
IND
|
14.12
|
168
|
RB
|
Peyton Barber
|
TBB
|
15.01
|
169
|
Def
|
Philadelphia Eagles
|
PHI
|
16.12
|
192
|
TE
|
OAK
|
|
17.01
|
193
|
Def
|
Denver Broncos
|
DEN
|
18.12
|
216
|
WR
|
Dez Bryant
|
FA
|
19.01
|
217
|
QB
|
Sam Darnold
|
NYJ
|
20.12
|
240
|
WR
|
Taywan Taylor
|
TEN
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. This draft occurred on Wednesday, August 8th and Derrius Guice's injury occurred on Thursday, Aug 9th. You selected Guice with pick 2.12 in this draft. This was a best ball draft, so there's no ability to replace him, but if this draft had in-season management with waivers, what would you recommend Guice owners do to fill the void?
Guice owners have two choices: chase a Washington back or find value elsewhere. I do not like any of the Washington replacement backs outside of Thompson so I would turn to the waiver wire for an upside player like Jonathan Williams.
2. This draft, like most Superflex drafts, are difficult to predict. Quarterbacks did not fly off the board in the early rounds and there was a trickle-down effect on other positions. You indicated an interest in Jordan Reed or Delanie Walker but you didn't select either in this draft. Why did you change your approach to tight end?
The QBs slid much more than expected. This pushed quality players down my board. Walker went in the 7th round and I thought I got a comparable TE in the 13th, Doyle. When one position slides, there is a cascading effect of creating value at the position.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Jeff had a nice start to the draft with a running back heavy approach, however, he was very unlucky as less than 24 hours after this draft Derrius Guice tore his ACL and is out for the season. He did get tremendous value out of Peyton Barber in the 14th round in this draft. If LeSean McCoy can avoid suspension even with the Derrius Guice injury the running back position will still be a strength of Jeff’s team.
Jeff’s quarterbacks are strong going out and getting two top 12 quarterbacks which will be a tremendous strength for this team.
Weaknesses
Jeff’s wide receivers are a bit of a concern as while they are fine for a Best Ball type format, Jeff may have some consistency issues amongst the group and having to make some tough selections on a week to week basis. Alshon Jeffery is a value but has been dealing with injuries this offseason and if he were to miss time this could hinder the wide receiving group.
How He’ll Win It All
With the unlucky start to the season with the Guice injury, Jeff will need to leverage the waiver wire and perfect in-season management to recover from the tough break. He will need both Carson Wentz and Alshon Jeffery to recover from their preseason injuries. At the wide receiver position, he will need to make the right choices each week and play the matchups as while it is a deep group it is a volatile group.
DRAFT SLOT 2
Brandon Marianne Lee, Sportsline / The Athletic
Brandon Marianne Lee is a fantasy contributor for Sportsline. She's also a radio host on SiriusXM Fantasy Sports Radio, an on-camera analyst for Fantasy Alarm, and a fantasy contributor to The Athletic.
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
3 QB, 5 RBs, 7 WRs, 3 TEs, 2 DEFs
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I'm considering an Alex Smith, Blake Bortles, Case Keenum sandwich
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Oh... I would go really low. If this was a regular league, I would roll with Sam Bradford until Rosen steps in/ Bradford gets hurt. I think Bradford is DFS gold until the wheels come off.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
Wide receiver. I'm pretty decent at picking out boom or bust WRs who are perfect for this kind of format.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
Without a TE premium, it's tough. Part of me wants to air for the Greg Olsen and Delanie Walker tier.
6. Discuss drafting from the #2 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
I have to go with my No. 1 pick (and no one else's) David Johnson. I feel great about it. On the way back around I'm likely to go WR then get some rookie RBs in the fourth or fifth.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
Love rookie RBs early if they have a role (hello Ronald Jones). Okay with rookie wide receivers in double-digit rounds. My favorites are Michael Gallup and Anthony Miller. And that's because I am all about the role. Only in the deepest of leagues will I take a flier on a rookie quarterback or tight end. Too inconsistent.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
At least one tight end and quarterback. I have to feel out the room for that second QB. Then four running backs and four wide receivers. That's the ideal. I am a sucker for balance.
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
Other than the ones I mentioned... Paul Richardson Jr, Kenny Stills, Marqise Lee, Matt Breida, Corey Clement, Gerald Everett, Tyler Eifert/Tyler Kroft
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
I actually think Corey Coleman is a good fit in Buffalo if it's Josh Allen under center. The deep ball is all that Allen has in the tank at this point of his career. Accuracy on intermediate and short passes is tragic.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
Wait, and take two. I would consider three if we had a bigger bench. I really like to take three kickers and defenses when I play in other best ball leagues. Obviously, this draft doesn't have a kicker, so maybe I'll throw an extra defense in there. I like defenses with turnover happy QBs in their division.
Draft selections
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.02
|
2
|
RB
|
LAR
|
|
2.11
|
23
|
WR
|
A.J. Green
|
CIN
|
3.02
|
26
|
TE
|
KCC
|
|
4.11
|
47
|
RB
|
Alex Collins
|
BAL
|
5.02
|
50
|
QB
|
NOS
|
|
6.11
|
71
|
RB
|
Ronald Jones
|
TBB
|
7.02
|
74
|
WR
|
Marvin Jones
|
DET
|
8.11
|
95
|
RB
|
GBP
|
|
9.02
|
98
|
WR
|
DEN
|
|
10.11
|
119
|
TE
|
Trey Burton
|
CHI
|
11.02
|
122
|
QB
|
DEN
|
|
12.11
|
143
|
QB
|
MIA
|
|
13.02
|
146
|
WR
|
JAC
|
|
14.11
|
167
|
WR
|
DAL
|
|
15.02
|
170
|
WR
|
TBB
|
|
16.11
|
191
|
TE
|
NOS
|
|
17.02
|
194
|
ET
|
New England Patriots
|
NEP
|
18.11
|
215
|
RB
|
MIA
|
|
19.02
|
218
|
WR
|
Albert Wilson
|
MIA
|
20.11
|
239
|
Def
|
Detroit Lions
|
DET
|
post-draft questions
1. You mentioned an interest in waiting at the quarterback and tight end position. You picked Travis Kelce as the second tight end off the board in round three and then took Drew Brees as the 8th quarterback off the board in round five. Explain how you came to the conclusion to make those two key decisions?
I was sitting at the turn, and there I was with Gurley and Green. And I thought if I took Kelce I have an elite guy at all three positions. And ultimately, I think Brees is better than QB8. In a 2QB league, waiting until the fifth round and getting Brees as your QB1 is crazy. Always 4,000+ yards. Derek Carr hasn't even done that once in his career!
2. You mentioned an affinity for targeting boom/bust players in best ball drafts. What specific attributes or factors do you look for when identifying receivers to draft in this format?
There are a couple of strategies. One strategy is to grab a possible starter. That's why I took Michael Gallup in the 14th round. He could be the starter for the Cowboys. If he isn't, whatever, he's a 14th round pick! But if he is, I just killed this draft. Another strategy is the single-game hero that I don't CHOOSE to start. That's why I took DeSean Jackson in the 15th round. Do I want to decide when to start him? When he'll have a big game? Heck now. But guys like Jackson only need one big play to have a big week, and since the computer is making the decision after the fact, I feel great about that.
Devin Knotts' evaluation
Strengths
Brandon Marianne did a tremendous job building a roster that is extremely deep at wide receiver with a nice balance of consistency and upside players in case players such as Albert Wilson or Michael Gallup do not work out. She has done a nice job of doing the exact same thing at the tight end position having a safe option in Travis Kelce and an upside play with Trey Burton.
Weaknesses
The issue for Brandon Marianne is going to be whether outside of Todd Gurley if her running back group is strong enough as she only drafted five running backs and only two in the first five rounds. She will need Todd Gurley and Alex Collins to stay healthy while consistently using a wide receiver at the flex position unless one of Ronald Jones or Jamaal Williams can break through.
How She’ll Win It All
Brandon Marianne is in great shape in this league and has to be one of the favorites. If she can have consistency out of the second running back position in Alex Collins and get enough out of Case Keenum/Ryan Tannehill she will be in contention right up until the end.
DRAFT SLOT 3
Jason Wood, Footballguys - Bio
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
Normally in a best-ball draft, particularly MFL10s, I would be fine sticking with two quarterbacks. But in those leagues, you also have to roster defenses and kickers, and since it's best-ball you almost have to take two of each. Which leaves you 16 spots for QB/RB/WR/TE. But in his league, it's both a Superflex AND we don't need kickers. So heading into the draft my goals will be to come away with at least:
- 3 Quarterbacks
- 5 Running Backs
- 7 Wide Receivers
- 2 Tight Ends
- 2 Defenses
That leaves one spot, which will likely be allocated to whatever position I feel is the thinnest after filling out my minimums.
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
18 quarterbacks would've ranked in the Top 50 using this scoring system last year, and it's going to be very hard for a quarterback not to be the highest scoring player in best-ball formats in most weeks. As a result, you have to come away with at least three passers, and four is justifiable. It's also a relatively think starting lineup of nine total players, which also enhances the value of the position. Quarterbacks are going to be 22% of your starting lineup. You need those points. I'll want to come away with my first quarterback in the first two rounds, and at least two starters through five or six rounds. I have a list of 17 quarterbacks that I would be happy to roster, and I need to end up with at least two from that list.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
There are 17 quarterbacks I'm comfortable having as "must starts." The last quarterback on my list is Jared Goff (QB17).
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
I'm drafted third (1.03), so running back is the logical choice. I'll come away with either Todd Gurley, Le'Veon Bell, or Ezekiel Elliott in the first round, and will almost certainly take a quarterback in the second round. I'll probably take another running back in the third round. I'm comfortable waiting on wide receiver in this format because best ball allows you to stack big-play, boom or bust types. Those receivers would be maddening in a standard league because you would never know what weeks to start which receivers. But in best-ball, if you have enough of them, you'll always produce a big score.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
It's Rob Gronkowski or bust. And by bust, I mean waiting until 12-14 tight ends are off the board. I believe some combination of Austin Hooper, Jake Butt, Blake Jarwin, Mike Gesicki, Ben Watson, Cameron Brate, and Ricky Seals-Jones will produce weekly stats equivalent to everyone other than Gronkowski, Zach Ertz, and Travis Kelce.
6. Discuss drafting from the #3 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
In a Superflex, it's tempting to pull the trigger on quarterback quickly. At 1.03, that's illogical because I'm guaranteed one of the four can't-miss running backs. Since I'll have to wait until late in the second-round, it's almost a guarantee I'll draft the best available quarterback in the second. As long as there wasn't a QB run before my pick (meaning five or six quarterbacks off the board already), I'll draft a running back or wide receiver at 3.03 with an eye toward my second quarterback in the fourth or fifth round. Any time you're picking toward the beginning or end of the first round, you run the risk of being caught up in positional runs. That requires you to actively manage your roster and ensure a balanced approach.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
It's dependent on the player, and the cost. Josh Gordon in the third round is a hard pass. Josh Gordon in the seventh round is a must pick. Carson Wentz in the second round of a Superflex isn't going to happen, but if he's there in the fourth or fifth round, I'll roll the dice.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
I have to have at least two quarterbacks, but I'll probably have three. I doubt I'll have a tight end, which means I'll have seven or eight receivers and running backs, collectively.
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
I'm not ducking the question but that's not how I draft. I build projections and tier players and am fiercely loyal to that process. I'm doing something wrong if I end up with the same group of players draft after draft.
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
I don't think there will be a quarterback that qualifies given the premium the position holds in a Superflex. At tight end, Jake Butt is the guy. He is a Jason Witten clone and redshirted last year but has the talent to become the Broncos starter and one of their top three targets (along with Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas). At receiver, I've been saving a late-round pick for John Brown or John Ross. At running back, it's Jordan Wilkins.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
There are seven elite defenses, and I want one of them. Generally, as soon as the first defense (Jacksonville) comes off the board, I'll consider taking my first defense the following pick. I'll wait on the second defense until the last round or two and grab the best available (that doesn't share a bye week with my first defense).
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.03
|
3
|
RB
|
DAL
|
|
2.10
|
22
|
RB
|
Christian McCaffrey
|
CAR
|
3.03
|
27
|
QB
|
Russell Wilson
|
SEA
|
4.10
|
46
|
WR
|
Adam Thielen
|
MIN
|
5.03
|
51
|
QB
|
MIN
|
|
6.10
|
70
|
RB
|
DEN
|
|
7.03
|
75
|
WR
|
Corey Davis
|
TEN
|
8.10
|
94
|
WR
|
NEP
|
|
9.03
|
99
|
RB
|
Carlos Hyde
|
CLE
|
10.10
|
118
|
QB
|
NYG
|
|
11.03
|
123
|
Def
|
Jacksonville Jaguars
|
JAC
|
12.10
|
142
|
RB
|
SEA
|
|
13.03
|
147
|
WR
|
WAS
|
|
14.10
|
166
|
RB
|
IND
|
|
15.03
|
171
|
TE
|
BUF
|
|
16.10
|
190
|
TE
|
DEN
|
|
17.03
|
195
|
Def
|
New Orleans Saints
|
NOS
|
18.10
|
214
|
WR
|
Geronimo Allison
|
GBP
|
19.03
|
219
|
WR
|
Christian Kirk
|
ARI
|
20.10
|
238
|
TE
|
FA
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You are particularly strong at running back, quarterback and defense, but if your team has a weak spot, it's at tight end. You indicated a "Gronk or Bust" approach and Gronkowski was selected in the early second round. As a result, you waited until round 15 to select a tight end (Charles Clay), followed by Jake Butt 19 picks later and Antonio Gates in the last round. Can this trio compete? What made you decide on Butt over other tight ends like Ben Watson, Hayden Hurst or Mike Gesicki?
As you noted, I followed my plan perfectly. One of the biggest mistakes people make each year is reaching for that second group of tight ends. Historically, very little separates TE12 from TE24 and ultimately most of us would be playing the waiver wire game and hoping for advantageous matchups. Since this is a best-ball league, and I knew I would be taking deep sleepers, it was imperative to roster three tight ends. There's obvious risk with my trio, but it was a calculated risk because my other positions are dominant. Charles Clay is the safest of my trio and he should be the second most targeted player in Buffalo, beyond Kelvin Benjamin. Jake Butt is a guy I've been high on all preseason. He would have been a first- or second-round pick coming out of Michigan were it not for a late season torn ACL. He redshirted last year and fantasy owners have short-term memories. That's a mistake. Butt's upside comparable is Jason Witten, and he'll be an every-down starter in Denver by my estimation. I could have gone with Watson or Gesicki instead, but Butt is a deep value pick I'm putting my stamp on and figured this was a good chance to put my money where my mouth is.
2. You selected the Jacksonville defense at pick 11.03. Explain the importance of having a top-flight defense in a draft of this format?
In best-ball leagues my plan is always to roster one of seven defenses in the elite tier, according to my projections. Sometimes I'll wait for the Jaguars and Rams to go off the board and then grab one of the remaining teams at my next pick. The way this draft was unfolding, I felt comfortable I could take the top option, without hurting my overall roster construction. In other words, so many great best-ball players it afforded me the luxury of drafting the Jaguars early. You need a better defense than normal in this format because it's best-ball. There are no waiver wires. No playing the matchup. And historically defensive values vary so much from year to year that the only way you can be sure you're getting value is by taking one of the units without any question marks.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Jason did a great job loading up at the running back and quarterback positions early selecting two of the top 9 quarterbacks and two of the top 12 running backs. At the positions with the most scarcity, Jason took advantage which should set him up well in the trade market if some of his lower end upside running backs have a breakout year.
Weaknesses
At the wide receiver position, Jason is going to need to survive the first four weeks with Julian Edelman being suspended as he is going to have to rely on Corey Davis to be his number two wide receiver. While Davis has a lot of upside as shown in the New England playoff game, he is going to have to continue those types of performances instead of the regular season where he did not score a touchdown. The other issue Jason will have this season is relying on Charles Clay or Jake Butt to be a consistent tight end performer each week.
How He’ll Win It All
If Jason can find a tight end on the waiver wire and get through the first four weeks with a decent record, this is a team to watch as his weakness at wide receiver turns to a strength after that point.
DRAFT SLOT 4
Dennis Esser, The Fantasy Coach Podcast
Dennis has been featured on FNTSY Sports Network for season long as well as DFS Fantasy Football and other Fantasy Sports. The Fantasy Coach has also been a top ranker in multiple sports for Fantasy Pros over the last 5 plus years.
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
I usually let the draft play out a bit and don't set strict limits on positions. Best ball is a bit of a different animal as certain roster configurations have proven to be optimal. Going into the draft my plan is to take 3 QBS, 5 RBs, 7 WRs, 3 TEs and 2 Def.
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
Playing in a decent amount of Superflex expert leagues I realize that our draft board may not reflect the home leagues most are used to. I have been making a living for years taking Phillip Rivers late in drafts and I don't see that changing much this year. The Hunter Henry injury hurts, but I think there is enough firepower to keep him as a sneaky top 12 QB. I think guys like Carson Wentz and Cam Newton are overpriced at this point. They are getting drafted at their ceilings instead of being careful of their mid-range projections. I don't mind Matt Ryan late and really like getting Case Keenum as my 3rd QB.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Depending on who my 1st QB is and if the league is extremely punitive for turnovers I don't mind waiting a bit later on a guy like Eli Manning. The addition of a real pass catching weapon at the RB position is exciting.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
Running back is the next man up for me at the Superflex spot. TE is a bit of matchup position unless you get lucky and get a top guy at a value. There's only a few that would be a consideration and I don't see many young guys making a gigantic leap because most aren't any better than the 3rd option in the passing game. Running back is pretty deep and the addition of PPR creates more opportunities for RBs to score.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
Tight End is a spot where I let the board dictate how I draft it. If I can get Kelce at a discount after the 3rd Tier of WRs is gone I'm in. If not I will wait a bit and see if I can snag Jimmy Graham in the 7th or Jordan Reed in the 8th. If I go with the injury-prone reed I will be forced to back up the position a bit sooner than usual. I like grabbing Hooper and Kittle late and think they could outplay their Draft Positions.
6. Discuss drafting from the #4 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
I'm drafting 4th and I am taking whichever RB of the top 4 falls to me. Sure I can buck the trend a bit and take Antonio Brown or try and grab rookie phenom Saquan Barkley so I can get written up the next day, but I feel very comfortable taking David Johnson, Todd Gurley, Ezekiel Elliot or Le'Veon Bell. I just can't pass up on them.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
I think rookies at the RB position are the best bet if you are going to invest. As long as they can protect the QB they should see the field early. WRs and TEs have so much to learn in a short offseason that it's tough to invest, especially with this year's crop not being dynamic. Yes I like Anthony Miller, but I would much rather grab a veteran. I stay away from player injured in training camp as much as possible. Players like Tyler Eifert and Jordan Reed need to be very cheap for me to take them. It's going to be interesting to see where I value Doug Baldwin drafting tonight with his knee injury a question mark. Suspended players are not what I invest in.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
I expect to have at least 1 QB, possibly 2 by round 10. All depends on how the room is treating the position. With a top RB locked up I will probably have 3 RBs by round 10 being over. I like to load up on mid-round WRs and will most likely have 5 WRs by round 10 being over. That leaves 1 spot for a TE and that's usually how my team is built.
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
I seem to be grabbing a lot of Isaiah Crowell and Royce Freeman at the running back position as of late. I think freeman's draft stock will just keep going up as beat writers talk him up. I like grabbing Kenny Golladay, Robby Anderson, Mike Wiliams and Pierre Garcon at the WR position and Kittle at TE.
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
I am targeting Case Keenum at QB, D'onta Foreman at RB, Keelan Cole at WR and Benjamin Watson at TE as my deep sleeper late picks.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
I'm taking them late and don't mind getting some young up and coming Defenses. The Bears and Browns interest me as my 2nd Defense. I think the Giants will have a bounce-back year on defense as well.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.04
|
4
|
RB
|
PIT
|
|
2.09
|
21
|
RB
|
Devonta Freeman
|
ATL
|
3.04
|
28
|
WR
|
Mike Evans
|
TBB
|
4.09
|
45
|
RB
|
PHI
|
|
5.04
|
52
|
WR
|
DEN
|
|
6.09
|
69
|
WR
|
Allen Robinson
|
CHI
|
7.04
|
76
|
TE
|
TEN
|
|
8.09
|
93
|
RB
|
Marlon Mack
|
IND
|
9.04
|
100
|
WR
|
LAR
|
|
10.09
|
117
|
WR
|
Will Fuller
|
HOU
|
11.04
|
124
|
QB
|
OAK
|
|
12.09
|
141
|
QB
|
CIN
|
|
13.04
|
148
|
WR
|
BUF
|
|
14.09
|
165
|
WR
|
LAC
|
|
15.04
|
172
|
QB
|
ARI
|
|
16.09
|
189
|
TE
|
Austin Seferian-Jenkins
|
JAC
|
17.04
|
196
|
TE
|
BAL
|
|
18.09
|
213
|
Def
|
Seattle Seahawks
|
SEA
|
19.04
|
220
|
Def
|
New York Giants
|
NYG
|
20.09
|
237
|
RB
|
Joe Williams
|
SFO
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You waited until round 11 and 12 to take your first two quarterbacks, Derek Carr and Andy Dalton. They were the 23rd and 28th quarterbacks off the board. You later picked Sam Bradford (QB30) in round 15. Explain why this strategy can be beneficial in this format.
I will usually wait in Super-Flex Leagues on QB a little longer than other owners. In this particular league with so many great fantasy minds, I may have held out just a little too long. If I am going for a projected top 12 QB for me I usually like to strike in round 6 or 7. When Chet took Cam in front of me in round 4 I really thought I could hold off until round 5 for one of the 3 QBs I rated highly to get back to me, but Jason Wood made me pay by taking Cousins one spot ahead of me as his 2nd QB. Instead of reaching for a lower tier QB I decided to keep building the bulk of my squad with Demaryius Thomas. There was a lull in QBs for the rest of rounds 5 and 6 and I thought really hard about Rivers in round 6, but I let him go because all three drafting behind me had at least 1 QB on their roster already. That backfired as Jeff T took him at the turn. In the 7th I should have taken Stafford and if the draft was today I would have. Personal bias came in on that pick. It's hard to ignore the weapons amassed in Detroit. 3 Potential WR2-3s and Theo Reddick at RB as a huge 3rd down force. The 9th was a tough choice as well as I had Kupp, Prescott and Mariota on the board. If it was today and I knew a best ball player like Fuller would get back to me I would have grabbed Prescott. I took Fuller over Eli Manning because I have Mannings numbers pretty close to the next 4 QBs. I was desperate for QBs after that and grabbed the underachieving Derek Carr and the under-appreciated Andy Dalton back to back. For waiting for the position I am not too disappointed, but I definitely overplayed the waiting game at the position. Adding Bradford late was only for an option to start early in the season. I don't expect Bradford to stay healthy, but his weapons and his skills when healthy are well above the 30th QB. Overall, I'm happy with the team I built, but this was a super tough draft.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Dennis built a very strong roster with extreme quality and depth at the running back and wide receiver positions. Dennis did a great job mixing inconsistent players such as Demaryius Thomas with upside guys like Allen Robinson to provide the nice balance that you want in a season-long format.
Weaknesses
The only question mark on this team will be if Dennis can get enough out of his quarterbacks to win this league. With this league being a Superflex format, Dennis did not take his first quarterback until the 23rd quarterback off the board.
How He’ll Win It All
If Dennis can just get league average quarterback play, he will be one of the favorites in this league. He will need Andy Dalton, Derek Carr and Sam Bradford to outperform their draft position and if that happens Dennis could win the league.
DRAFT SLOT 5
Chet Gresham, WalterFootball.com
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
3QB, 7RB, 7WR, 2TE, 1 Def
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I've been snake bit by waiting too long for my second quarterback in Superflex leagues and no, a second tight end isn't going to help you out in that flex spot when you are facing Rodgers and Stafford, so I will "reach" for a second quarterback without hesitation.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Probably someone like Alex Smith. His ADP is as the 18th QB off the board and I'd feel fine with him. I could also look to go the Tyrod Taylor/Jameis Winston route, but that strategy could be tough to get right. If I get scooped on my second quarterback, I'll likely try to squeeze four quarterbacks onto my roster, which would include players like Bortles, Tannehill, Bradford, and McCown.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
Getting a third wide receiver who is consistent would be my druthers, but I would likely end up with a matchup running back who I could see with more upside any given week.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
I doubt I'll go after a stud tight end like Gronkowski or Kelce, especially in a 2QB league where I might be scrambling for starting running backs and wide receivers after taking my second QB earlier than I would like. My hope is to get two tight ends who I believe to have potential to be in the TE5-TE10 range with a little luck. That has me looking at David Njoku, Vance McDonald, Jared Cook, ASJ, and Ben Watson.
6. Discuss drafting from the #5 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
In a 2QB league so much will depend on what happens before my turn. If a stud running back gets to me because multiple quarterbacks were taken, it might be tough to pass on someone like David Johnson, but I could see grabbing Aaron Rodgers if no quarterbacks are taken. I have a feeling I'll end up taking a QB in rounds 2 and 3 after taking a stud running back, but we'll see.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
I'm more risk averse than I once was, so they'll really need to fall for me to grab a player like Sony Michel or Carson Wentz.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
I'll have at least two of QB, RB, and WR. After that, I don't really know.
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
Chris Hogan, Rex Burkhead, Randall Cobb, Jamison Crowder, Matt Breida
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
I'll start looking in the last three rounds and I've been targeting the Saints with their schedule looking good for the first couple weeks.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.05
|
5
|
RB
|
NOS
|
|
2.08
|
20
|
QB
|
NEP
|
|
3.05
|
29
|
RB
|
Jerick McKinnon
|
SFO
|
4.08
|
44
|
QB
|
CAR
|
|
5.05
|
53
|
WR
|
Golden Tate
|
DET
|
6.08
|
68
|
WR
|
WAS
|
|
7.05
|
77
|
RB
|
NYJ
|
|
8.08
|
92
|
WR
|
SFO
|
|
9.05
|
101
|
WR
|
GBP
|
|
10.08
|
116
|
QB
|
JAC
|
|
11.05
|
125
|
RB
|
Nyheim Hines
|
IND
|
12.08
|
140
|
WR
|
SEA
|
|
13.05
|
149
|
TE
|
PIT
|
|
14.08
|
164
|
WR
|
LAC
|
|
15.05
|
173
|
RB
|
Doug Martin
|
OAK
|
16.08
|
188
|
WR
|
Danny Amendola
|
MIA
|
17.05
|
197
|
TE
|
MIA
|
|
18.08
|
212
|
Def
|
Chicago Bears
|
CHI
|
19.05
|
221
|
Def
|
San Francisco 49ers
|
SFO
|
20.08
|
236
|
RB
|
Chase Edmonds
|
ARI
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You drafted two Top 6 quarterbacks in Tom Brady and Cam Newton. Explain why having two high ranked quarterbacks is a good strategy for this type of draft.
Quarterbacks didn't come off the board as fast as you might expect in some 2QB leagues, so my strategy of securing two strong QBs ended up netting me a couple studs. I did wait long enough to get two strong PPR backs in Kamara and McKinnon, so I felt even better about grabbing Cam Newton in the fourth round. Two consistently strong quarterbacks should solidify my team and help me get through the lean times.
2. Tyrell Williams was someone you were targeting in this draft. Explain why he is someone who can be a good roster addition in this format?
Williams is a big play guy, which works well in best ball, but he's also going to see consistent work, especially with Hunter Henry out. Mike Williams has a chance to usurp his No. 2 depth chart spot, but Tyrell's numbers suggest there's no reason he'll give up that spot easily.
3. You waited to take two defenses (Chicago and San Francisco) in round 18 and 19. What specific factors led you to the decision to take those two defenses?
I like the Bears defensive group as a whole and Vic Fangio is able to scheme with the best of them. The 49ers schedule overall looks to be positive for D/ST, so I've been grabbing them when I need a backup like in best ball.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Chet went with the quarterback-heavy approach in the Superflex going out and getting two of the top-five quarterbacks in the league in Tom Brady and Cam Newton while also taking the consistently underrated Blake Bortles as the 20th quarterback off the board.
Weaknesses
The tight end position is the clear weakness on this team as he took two largely unproven guys in Vance McDonald and Mike Gesicki as Chet’s sole tight ends on this team. While both tight ends are talented, what role they will have in two offenses that largely have not produced tight end output will be the biggest question for Chet’s team.
How He’ll Win It All
If Chet can get enough out of his tight end position, he will be extremely dangerous this year as he has a tremendously balanced team with two elite quarterbacks.
DRAFT SLOT 6
Phil Alexander, Footballguys - Bio
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
QB: 2-3, RB: 6, WR: 7, TE: 3, DEF: 2-3
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I won the 2017 Footballguys Staff Superflex league with Jared Goff and Josh McCown as my starters and made the finals in 2016 with Joe Flacco and Alex Smith. Late round quarterback is a viable strategy in Superflex simply because very few people are willing to employ it. I'm happy to let everyone else fight over players at a position where fantasy scoring is closely grouped while stocking up on premium running backs and wide receivers in the early rounds. I trust my ability to cobble together a competent quarterback duo later on. That said, I don't think it's a mistake to draft a quarterback in Superflex as soon as Round 4 if you feel the value is there.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Probably Ryan Tannehill, but if I can make QB2 work with Flacco, Sam Bradford, or possibly both.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
In full PPR scoring, I'd prefer a wide receiver, but would also be happy with a running back who catches passes.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
If I'm not in position take Rob Gronkowski in the second round, I'm not even thinking about tight end until Round 8. Jordan Reed and George Kittle are my targets at that point.
6. Discuss drafting from the #6 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
It would be great if more than one of the folks drafting ahead of me are quarterback-happy and allow one of the consensus top-4 running backs to fall into my lap. But I'll probably end up choosing between guys like Alvin Kamara and Antonio Brown in Round 1, which is fine in PPR leagues. I plan on doing my usual thing -- staying flexible and pouncing on value when it presents itself. One thing is certain -- it's going to stink drafting between two former colleagues, Chet Gresham (shout out to The Fake Football) and Heath Cummings. Both are super-sharp dudes who I usually find myself agreeing with.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
Rookies are fine as long as they're running backs. I have little interest in this year's crop of rookie wide receivers and zero desire to draft a first-year tight end. In Superflex leagues, I don't mind taking a rookie quarterback at QB3 given the increased position scarcity. I'd give Josh Rosen the best chance of starting at least 10 games. Injured players are a deal breaker. Why would I draft a guy who already has a significant injury before the season starts? It's not like playing more football will help him get better. Suspended players are like wasabi sauce -- good in small doses. I'll target one of Jameis Winston, Mark Ingram, or Julian Edelman, but it's tough tying up more than one roster spot on guys you can't use for 30% of the fantasy football regular season.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
QB: 1, RB: 4, WR: 4, TE: 1, DEF: 0
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
Cooper Kupp, Marshawn Lynch, George Kittle, Chris Godwin, Andy Dalton
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
Kittle, Godwin, and Dalton all qualify, but Godwin is the only one who can truly be considered a stash since he still has work to do before he becomes a starter on his own team.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.06
|
6
|
WR
|
PIT
|
|
2.07
|
19
|
RB
|
NYG
|
|
3.06
|
30
|
RB
|
Joe Mixon
|
CIN
|
4.07
|
43
|
WR
|
Amari Cooper
|
OAK
|
5.06
|
54
|
WR
|
CLE
|
|
6.07
|
67
|
WR
|
Sammy Watkins
|
KCC
|
7.06
|
78
|
QB
|
DET
|
|
8.07
|
91
|
RB
|
OAK
|
|
9.06
|
102
|
WR
|
Robert Woods
|
LAR
|
10.07
|
115
|
TE
|
SFO
|
|
11.06
|
126
|
QB
|
TBB
|
|
12.07
|
139
|
RB
|
DET
|
|
13.06
|
150
|
TE
|
CIN
|
|
14.07
|
163
|
WR
|
TBB
|
|
15.06
|
174
|
WR
|
WAS
|
|
16.07
|
187
|
QB
|
TBB
|
|
17.06
|
198
|
Def
|
Baltimore Ravens
|
BAL
|
18.07
|
211
|
Def
|
Green Bay Packers
|
GBP
|
19.06
|
222
|
RB
|
C.J. Prosise
|
SEA
|
20.07
|
235
|
RB
|
LeGarrette Blount
|
DET
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. Your quarterback position consists of Matthew Stafford and a QB2 committee of Jameis Winston and Ryan Fitzpatrick. Explain how this strategy can work in this format?
I'm not sure spending two picks on what amounts to one quarterback is a strategy anyone should be aiming for in best ball, super-flex, or any other format. I kind of got stuck with Fitzpatrick. Winston was available in the 11th round of a Super-Flex draft -- value too good to pass up. But as soon as I picked him, I knew I would need a third quarterback on my roster to remain competitive while Winston misses the first three weeks. There was a mini-run of quarterbacks before my next pick, but when I saw names like Andy Dalton and Ryan Tannehill still on the board, I felt OK waiting a bit more and taking Theo Riddick as my RB4. Dalton and Tannehill went later in the same round, at which point my plan became to punt a roster spot for three games of Fitzpatrick rather than sacrifice wide receiver upside (Chris Godwin and Josh Doctson) for Sam Bradford, who may not make it through the preseason. If Winston + Fitzpatrick nets me mid-range QB1 numbers, as I hope they can, I should be more than fine at quarterback since Stafford is rock solid.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Phil built an extremely deep wide receiving group from top to bottom with Antonio Brown, Amari Cooper, Josh Gordon in the fifth round which is a tremendous value, and Sammy Watkins. This is a group that is going to carry Phil’s team. Phil did a nice job getting Saquon Barkley in the second-round which is tremendous value and paired him nicely with Joe Mixon a round later.
Weaknesses
The issue for Phil is whether taking four wide receivers in the first six rounds was needed as in most weeks you are only going to start three wide receivers at most in this league with only two wide receivers and two flexes, but one of those flex spots is a quarterback flex. By going heavy on the wide receivers, Phil sacrificed at the quarterback and tight end position as both are weaknesses heading into this season.
How He’ll Win It All
If Tyler Eifert can stay healthy or George Kittle can take the leap that a lot of people expect Phil’s tight end group should be good enough to win this league. The biggest thing for Phil is going to be surviving the three games Jameis Winston is suspended and then the bye weeks as he only has two quarterbacks on the roster once Jameis returns. If he can manage this he can win this league.
DRAFT SLOT 7
Heath Cummings, CBS Sports
Heath Cummings is a Senior Fantasy Football Writer for CBS Sports and an analyst on Fantasy Football Today. Before joining CBS Sports he was a staff writer for Footballguys and hosted a Fantasy Football show with Jeff Haseley on ESPN 1510 in Kansas City.
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
QB 2-4
RB 4-6
WR 4-6
TE 2-3
DST 2-3
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I think of it in terms of the number of quarterbacks left & not round, because there can be a wide range of when the QB runs happen. I'd like to get two of my top-19 but if I take one stud early I'd be okay with my second QB being worse than that.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
I'd be okay with Andy Dalton or Eli Manning as my No. 2, but that would mean I'd definitely make sure I got a third starter.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
In a PPR league it's probably going to be a receiver but I'd be okay with someone like Gio Bernard as well.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
With the 7th pick it's possible I'll take Zach Ertz in the 3rd round but I can't imagine I'll land Gronk or Kelce. If I get Ertz I'll wait a while on my No. 2 but if not I'm more likely to take two tight ends earlier in the draft.
6. Discuss drafting from the #7 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
The middle of the draft is one place where I'm going to have to let others dictate my draft strategy. If Antonio Brown or DeAndre Hopkins is there in the first round I'll snag them and it's likely I'll take a running back in the second round unless Keenan Allen or Michael Thomas falls.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
In best ball leagues I'm more likely to take a chance on these types of players because it's easy to replace their production in this format when they miss time.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
- 1-2 QBs
- 3-4 RBs
- 3-4 WRs
- 1-2 TE
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
- Rex Burkhead
- Jamaal Williams
- Robby Anderson
- Kenny Stills
- Jimmy Graham
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
- Tyrod Taylor
- Gio Bernard
- Mike Williams
- Hayden Hurst
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
I won't be the first one to take a defense but I'd like to get one of the top five so that I feel more comfortable only carrying two.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.07
|
7
|
WR
|
HOU
|
|
2.06
|
18
|
QB
|
GBP
|
|
3.07
|
31
|
WR
|
T.Y. Hilton
|
IND
|
4.06
|
42
|
QB
|
IND
|
|
5.07
|
55
|
RB
|
HOU
|
|
6.06
|
66
|
WR
|
JuJu Smith-Schuster
|
PIT
|
7.07
|
79
|
RB
|
SEA
|
|
8.06
|
90
|
TE
|
CAR
|
|
9.07
|
103
|
TE
|
Kyle Rudolph
|
MIN
|
10.06
|
114
|
WR
|
DeVante Parker
|
MIA
|
11.07
|
127
|
RB
|
Giovani Bernard
|
CIN
|
12.06
|
138
|
RB
|
CLE
|
|
13.07
|
151
|
RB
|
Devontae Booker
|
DEN
|
14.06
|
162
|
RB
|
Javorius Allen
|
BAL
|
15.07
|
175
|
RB
|
HOU
|
|
16.06
|
186
|
Def
|
Houston Texans
|
HOU
|
17.07
|
199
|
WR
|
Ted Ginn Jr
|
NOS
|
18.06
|
210
|
RB
|
Austin Ekeler
|
LAC
|
19.07
|
223
|
Def
|
Buffalo Bills
|
BUF
|
20.06
|
234
|
TE
|
CIN
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You went heavy at quarterback, selecting two in the first four rounds (Aaron Rodgers and Andrew Luck). What made you wait until round five to select your first running back in Lamar Miller?
I'm getting more and more fond of drafting running backs late but mostly this was a product of the elite QBs falling past where I usually see them go in this format. I had no intention of taking Rodgers, but this is the first Superflex (or two QB draft I've been in where he fell to the 2nd round. The combination of Rodgers and Luck will be very hard to beat if they both stay healthy.
2. You drafted two rookie running backs in Rashaad Penny and Nick Chubb. How do you see both the Seattle and Cleveland rushing games shaping up this year?
Completely differently. I expect Penny will be the starting running back in Seattle once he's healthy and doing the things Pete Carroll wants him to do. He's much more talented than Chris Carson or anyone else on that roster and they spent a first round pick on him. Chubb is more of a lottery ticket that I like to take when I've waited on RBs like I did in this draft. I think he needs and injury or a terrible start to the season from the Browns to see a lot of work, but if he gets that role I believe he can be very successful.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Heath built his team around the quarterback and wide receiver positions with a firm understanding of the roster size in mind as he built his team. Getting Aaron Rodgers in the second round of a Superflex league is a tremendous value and while he may have reached a little bit early on Andrew Luck in the fourth-round, Heath has arguably the strongest quarterback group in the league.
Weaknesses
Heath went with the quantity over quality running back strategy waiting on his running backs and then took running backs in five consecutive rounds. This is a strategy that can work if one or two of the running backs such as Rashaad Penny or Nick Chubb can work out.
How He’ll Win It All
It is going to come down to can Heath get enough out of his running back group to win this league it really is as simple as that as his team is tremendous at all of the other positions. If one of Rashaad Penny or Nick Chubb can take over or even get a split role, Heath’s team will be dangerous.
DRAFT SLOT 8
Justin Bonnema, Footballguys - Bio
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
This is a question that can only be answered as the dynamics of the draft change. If I pound running backs early, I’ll feel less of a need to build depth at that position because in theory I’ll have the quality required to win the league. If I don’t get the top tier running backs, I’ll be more inclined to load up on late-round guys. Ideal roster construction would be (QB/RB/WR/TE/Def): 4/6/6/2/2
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
Don’t draft quarterbacks early but don’t draft them late either. If certain quarterbacks start slipping, such as Drew Brees and Kirk Cousins, I’m fine with jumping on them earlier than most. What I don’t want is to be caught behind a QB-run that eradicates value and availability. But I’m also comfortable targeting the likes of Dak Prescott, Case Keenum, and Tyrod Taylor.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Case Keenum. I love his situation this year and buy his performance from 2017. His ADP fits nicely for those of us brave enough to draft him as a QB2.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
Easily wide receiver. Targets hold more value than carries and it’s a lot easier to get reliable receivers late in drafts than running backs.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
I’m a tight end streamer in most leagues so I plan on waiting as long as possible before investing in this position. I don’t mind rolling with risky, high-upside guys like Jordan Reed and Tyler Eifert, with occasional low-floor/questionable options like Vance McDonald and Eric Ebron. I likely won’t draft a tight end before the 11th round.
6. Discuss drafting from the #8 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
This is one of my least favorite draft slots, but it does have advantages in that you get almost centered for each round and not too many draft picks go between yours. But because I’ll miss out on the top running backs, I may opt for a zero RB approach and take chances on running back committees later in the draft.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
Avoiding most except for where value clearly shows itself.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
In order of QB/RB/WR/TE/Def: 2/4/4/0/0
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
Jay Ajayi, Marvin Jones, Marshawn Lynch, Dion Lewis, Allen Hurns
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
I don’t know that sleepers exist in this draft but I’ve been targeting Tavon Austin late in just about every best ball league I play in. The hype may well be nothing more than just that, but if he gets reps at multiple positions including special teams, there will be games that Austin blows up. He’s the perfect boom/bust option in this format, especially since he’ll be available in the twilight rounds.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
Attack it earlier than my league-mates. I know the traditional strategy is to wait until the final rounds to select a defense. But the Jaguars and the Rams, for example, have more value than most other late-round players available. Basically, if I’m on the clock in the double-digit rounds and I don’t like my options, I’m not afraid to take the best defense available.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.08
|
8
|
RB
|
Melvin Gordon
|
LAC
|
2.05
|
17
|
WR
|
GBP
|
|
3.08
|
32
|
WR
|
MIN
|
|
4.05
|
41
|
RB
|
NEP
|
|
5.08
|
56
|
RB
|
Mark Ingram
|
NOS
|
6.05
|
65
|
QB
|
Ben Roethlisberger
|
PIT
|
7.08
|
80
|
RB
|
CLE
|
|
8.05
|
89
|
WR
|
CAR
|
|
9.08
|
104
|
WR
|
SFO
|
|
10.05
|
113
|
QB
|
DAL
|
|
11.08
|
128
|
RB
|
SFO
|
|
12.05
|
137
|
QB
|
CLE
|
|
13.08
|
152
|
TE
|
IND
|
|
14.05
|
161
|
WR
|
Mohamed Sanu
|
ATL
|
15.08
|
176
|
WR
|
NOS
|
|
16.05
|
185
|
TE
|
Luke Willson
|
DET
|
17.08
|
200
|
Def
|
Arizona Cardinals
|
ARI
|
18.05
|
209
|
WR
|
Eric Decker
|
NEP
|
19.08
|
224
|
WR
|
DAL
|
|
20.05
|
233
|
Def
|
Dallas Cowboys
|
DAL
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. Your draft was executed to plan fairly well. You built strength at the core (RB, WR) and picked your spots to secure good quarterback options. Like you said, you also waited at tight end. Explain how sticking to your plan worked to your advantage.
I really like the team I ended up with. There were moments when I was tempted to deviate from the plan but for the most part, I was able to stay on course and lock in the players I’ve been targeting a lot so far this season in best ball leagues. The biggest concern I have with this roster is the weakness and lack of depth at the tight end spot. But that can be overcome by strength at running backs and wide receivers.
I love the upside I built between Melvin Gordon, Rex Burkhead, Mark Ingram, and Duke Johnson Jr. Obviously, Ingram won’t score any points as he serves a four-game suspension, but I expect him to step right back into the role he served last year. I also love this team’s wide receivers. Davante Adams and Stefon Diggs should provide WR1 numbers, while Devin Funchess, Cameron Meredith, and Pierre Garcon all offer upside thanks to their respective offenses.
2. Which area of depth is better for a best ball format? running back, wide receiver or tight end? How would you rank all three in terms of importance?
I rank them in that exact order: running back, wide receiver, tight end. The exception to that is if you draft more than two running backs in the first five rounds (which is what I did in this draft). In that scenario, you have, in theory, invested enough capital into the position that quality should trump quantity. Otherwise, it’s wise to draft at least six running backs.
It makes a lot of sense to target wide receivers late. Once you get past the 13th round, quality at all other positions significantly drops. So, your best bet at that point is to build depth at wide receiver since they have the easiest path to targets and touchdowns.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Justin Bonnema
Strengths
Justin loaded up on wide receivers and running backs in this draft, while also getting three starting quarterbacks which is a tremendous start to this draft. Adding Mark Ingram as a third running back is a great selection knowing that Ingram will be out for the first four games Justin is not going to need to rely on Ingram or struggle to get by without him. He is set up well in the trade market to build off of any of his weaknesses.
Weaknesses
Tight end is a weakness for Justin as he waited until the 13th round to take his first tight end. Roster construction got a little away from him as he selected a wide receiver or running back in eight of the first nine rounds when on a given week he is only likely to start five of those eight players.
How He’ll Win It All
DRAFT SLOT 9
Justin Lonero, Football Diehards
Senior Writer and Fantasy Football Analyst at Football Diehards.com. Host of the Football Diehards podcast with Bob Harris. We discuss Fantasy Football all season long with the most notable names in the industry. In season we are a DFS show sponsored by Draft Kings.
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
3 QBs, 6RBs, 6WRs, 2 TEs, 2 D/STs, 1 K.
2. What is your natural strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I’m going to have a QB by round 5-6. That said, it’s such a deep position that we can wait maybe a round later or Two.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
I’m going to hammer WRs early and often. Meaning I’ll have 3-4 my first Four rounds. I love to flex a strong WR 2
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
I like to wait on TE almost always. I can't justify paying for Gronk, Kelce or Ert. By round 10 or 11 i’ll have a TR.
6. Discuss drafting from the #9 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
The Nine hole is a great place for me to draft an Elite WR and come back and get another one. If I'm picking super early I’m almost obligated to draft an RB
7. What’s your approach to rookies, injured players and/or suspended players that may not have a full work load to start the season?
Rookies are volatile and the great ones we’ll pay a premium for. This season it’s just Saquon Barkley. I’ll fade rookie WRs & TEs mostly but draft rookie RBs based on their opportunity at some point. Suspended players give us an opportunity to get a discount on a stud. Julian Edelman and Mark Ingram come to mind this season.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
2 QBs, 3 RBs, 4 WRs, 1 TE
9. Name five position players that you will target round Six or later.
Tarik Cohen, Jamison Crowder, Randall Cobb, Duke Johnson Jr, Nelson Agholor
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
11. What is your strategy at the defense/ST position in this draft?
I’ll wait until my foundation is built. Round 14 or 15 seems appropriate.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.09
|
9
|
WR
|
Odell Beckham
|
NYG
|
2.04
|
16
|
WR
|
NOS
|
|
3.09
|
33
|
WR
|
SEA
|
|
4.04
|
40
|
WR
|
Larry Fitzgerald
|
ARI
|
5.09
|
57
|
RB
|
MIA
|
|
6.04
|
64
|
RB
|
TEN
|
|
7.09
|
81
|
QB
|
ATL
|
|
8.04
|
88
|
RB
|
NEP
|
|
9.09
|
105
|
TE
|
WAS
|
|
10.04
|
112
|
QB
|
TEN
|
|
11.09
|
129
|
WR
|
Sterling Shepard
|
NYG
|
12.04
|
136
|
RB
|
JAC
|
|
13.09
|
153
|
WR
|
D.J. Moore
|
CAR
|
14.04
|
160
|
WR
|
ATL
|
|
15.09
|
177
|
Def
|
Los Angeles Chargers
|
LAC
|
16.04
|
184
|
TE
|
ATL
|
|
17.09
|
201
|
RB
|
KCC
|
|
18.04
|
208
|
Def
|
Kansas City Chiefs
|
KCC
|
19.09
|
225
|
WR
|
Donte Moncrief
|
JAC
|
20.04
|
232
|
WR
|
Dede Westbrook
|
JAC
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You went hard at wide receiver like you said you would, taking one in each of the first four rounds. As a result you wound up with Kenyan Drake, Dion Lewis, and Sony Michel followed by T.J. Yeldon and Spencer Ware. What specific characteristics of those backs drew you to them in this format? What type of back is optimal for this format?
I look for backs with defined roles based on volume and their involvement in the passing game. Yeldon and Ware will have roles and their work load would obviously increase with an injury to Leonard Fournette or Kareem Hunt. Regardless of format, I am targeting backs that are going to get the football consistently and that have upside.
2. Why is the wide receiver position important to you in best ball drafts? Are four strong receivers better than three strong receivers and a decent running back?
When I draft four wide receivers in a row my hope is to land four elite pass-catchers that all have top-10 or better upside. Drafting three wide receivers and one running back is certainly a safer play if you are comfortable paying somewhat of a premium for a volatile position. I don’t think there is a wrong answer but there is depth at each position to find diamonds in the rough.
3. You selected two highly touted rookie wide receivers in D.J. Moore and Calvin Ridley. What are your expectations for these Two players this year?
Historically rookie wideouts struggle. I feel I drafted the classes two best and they are just fine as my wide receivers six or seven. That being said both of them will probably be option three or four in their respective passing games.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Justin went with the heavy wide receiver strategy and his group is an impressive one and continued throughout the draft, starting the draft with 4 of the top 15 wide receivers is a great way to start a team and took advantage of the value created by the wide receivers slipping due to the Superflex format.
Weaknesses
Going with four consecutive wide receivers seems to be a bit of a mistake in a league in which you are likely only going to start three wide receivers on most weeks due to one of the flex positions being a Superflex. This created a weakness for Justin’s team at the running back and quarterback positions as while he got great value on Kenyan Drake, he only has four other running backs on his roster. At the quarterback position, Justin is going to rely on a bounce-back season from Marcus Mariota as his second quarterback as he decided not to take a third.
How He’ll Win It All
Justin is going to need this league through the trade market. Nine of Justin’s 20 roster spots were used on wide receivers, and if Justin can utilize his strength to move one of his four early selection wide receivers he should be able to fix some of the weaknesses at the running back position. Justin will also look to get a bounce-back season from Marcus Mariota who struggled in 2017.
DRAFT SLOT 10
Ryan Hester, Footballguys - Bio
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
- QB: 3
- RB: 4-6
- WR: 6-8
- TE: 2-3
- DST: 2-3
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
I'm always a late-round quarterback drafter. While Superflex changes the positional scarcity dynamics, I don't swing too far in the other direction. Many people think that they must get a quarterback in their first pick or two, but while that is going on, I'm more likely to scoop up elite running backs and wide receivers who fall as a result. Sure, we can start two quarterbacks in this league, but we still must start at least receivers and at least two running backs. And while it's a disadvantage more often than not to start a non-quarterback in the Superflex, this isn't a mandatory two-quarterback league. Just like with any other draft, don't let drafting for position take precedences over drafting who you feel is the best player.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
In the spirit of the last question, I'm completely fine with a Superflex-by-committee that looks something like QB22 and QB25. There is still upside that late, and I'll be loaded at the other positions.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
It's a full PPR league, so I lean towards wide receiver here.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
I'm also typically a late-round tight end drafter, but I'm warming to the idea of drafting Rob Gronkowski. However, with the 10th and 15th overall picks, that is going to be too early for him. And I doubt he makes it back to me at 34. So I will wait again and pick up someone in the George Kittle range along with one or two later players with upside.
6. Discuss drafting from the # hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
At 1.10, I'm hoping at least one quarterback goes before my first pick and that at least one more goes between 1.10 and 2.03 so that I can take some players who go in the 1.08-1.09 range and the Round 1/Round 2 turn in traditional formats. A start of either DeAndre Hopkins or Odell Beckham Jrpaired with Julio Jones or Keenan Allen would be outstanding in a PPR format where I can start at least three wide receivers.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
If the player is good and in a good situation (i.e. Mark Ingram II or Julian Edelman), I don't let suspensions be a deterrent. The first four weeks are when the rest of the roster is at its healthiest, and there are no bye weeks. Therefore, it's easier to make up the games lost by suspended players (or even by rookies whose volume hasn't ramped up yet) early in the season.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
- QB: 2
- RB: 3
- WR: 4
- TE: 1
- DST: 0
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
In no particular order other than approximate draft position, I'm looking at Lamar Miller, Cooper Kupp, Rex Burkhead, Mark Ingram II, and Michael Crabtree in Rounds 6-8. I like Emmanuel Sanders, George Kittle, and Kenny Stills.
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
Tyrell Williams is a late bargain. A very deep sleeper I'm monitoring is Jaron Brown in Seattle. If Doug Baldwin's injury doesn't get better and/or Tyler Lockett can't cut it as a starter, Brown could see plenty of snaps.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
I generally wait it out until position players are underwhelming. It's such a hard position to predict that reaching for one seems like a wasted pick. The one part of D/ST that is somewhat predictable is that teams with good game scripts generate fantasy points. So I take two or three mid-to-late ones from teams I expect to be good.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.10
|
10
|
WR
|
ATL
|
|
2.03
|
15
|
TE
|
NEP
|
|
3.10
|
34
|
RB
|
Jordan Howard
|
CHI
|
4.03
|
39
|
WR
|
Tyreek Hill
|
KCC
|
5.10
|
58
|
WR
|
Brandin Cooks
|
LAR
|
6.03
|
63
|
RB
|
TEN
|
|
7.10
|
82
|
RB
|
ATL
|
|
8.03
|
87
|
QB
|
KCC
|
|
9.10
|
106
|
QB
|
LAR
|
|
10.03
|
111
|
WR
|
MIA
|
|
11.10
|
130
|
WR
|
DAL
|
|
12.03
|
135
|
QB
|
BAL
|
|
13.10
|
154
|
WR
|
DET
|
|
14.03
|
159
|
RB
|
MIN
|
|
15.10
|
178
|
TE
|
ARI
|
|
16.03
|
183
|
Def
|
Pittsburgh Steelers
|
PIT
|
17.10
|
202
|
RB
|
NYJ
|
|
18.03
|
207
|
Def
|
Carolina Panthers
|
CAR
|
19.10
|
226
|
RB
|
Chris Ivory
|
BUF
|
20.03
|
231
|
WR
|
James Washington
|
PIT
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You selected Rob Gronkowski at pick 2.03. Explain how this decision changed your draft path or strategy?
As my pre-draft answers highlighted, I was hoping that one or two quarterbacks would have gone before my second pick. With this being a full PPR format where I can start as many as four wide receivers, I felt that was the most premium position - even considering the ability to start two quarterbacks. I was targeting a Julio Jones-Keenan Allen start, but Allen was picked (by you, Jeff!) right before my 2.03 selection. I saw a slight tier drop-ff between Allen and Michael Thomas/Davante Adams.
Typically, I don't draft "onesie" positions this early, but with the ability to flex a tight end, the full PPR scoring, and the slight drop in wide receive quality, I pulled the trigger on Gronkowski, who should be an elite producer as usual - especially in the first four weeks when he's at full health and the team is missing Julian Edelman.
This changed my strategy in two ways. First, it made my running backs and wide receivers weaker than I had intended. So I placed a focus there for the next five rounds. Had I picked a player at one of those positions at 2.03 instead of Gronkowski, I may have entertained selecting a quarterback earlier than I did (though I am happy with the group I got, as I've been scooping up Patrick Mahomes II II everywhere I can due to his incredible upside). I was also able to forget about the tight end position for a long time to focus elsewhere.
2. Would you rather have three RB2-caliber running backs or four good running backs with potential? Explain which is better in a best ball format?
I'm trying to win the league, not to have a respectable finish. So a high ceiling is always more desirable. In an ideal draft, the players selected in the first four or five rounds provide both, while the late-round picks provide a huge profit to elevate the team to the top. Picks like Tevin Coleman, Latavius Murray, and Bilal Powell all offer weekly RB1 upside if there are injuries in their backfields. In the case of Coleman and Murray, they're one injury away from being the only player in a very productive backfield. There's no difference in finishing fourth or dead last, so I like to aim high.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Ryan did a nice job building a balanced lineup in this draft as even though he waited on quarterbacks still got two quarterbacks back to back in the 8th and 9th round by taking guys with upside in Patrick Mahomes II and Jared Goff. Waiting on quarterback allowed Ryan to build a very solid wide receiving group led by Julio Jones and the ultimate upside player in Tyreek Hill.
Weaknesses
Running back is a weakness for Ryan as he waited until the third round to get a running back and then took two running backs in shared situations in the sixth and seventh rounds in Derrick Henry and Tevin Coleman. He continued to wait after taking these three not taking another running back until Latavius Murray in the 14th round. If there is an issue with this team it is the lack of depth that he will have to overcome.
How He’ll Win It All
If Dion Lewis or Devonte Freeman were to go down with injury, Ryan’s running back issues immediately become a strength. If Patrick Mahomes II and Tyreek Hill form a solid connection this year Ryan’s team could be extremely dangerous as this is a nice stack to have.
DRAFT SLOT 11
Jeff Haseley, Footballguys - Bio
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
- QB: 3
- RB: 6
- WR: 6
- TE: 3
- Def: 2
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
The decision of when I will take my first quarterback depends on how fast they are going off the board by the time I pick at 1.11. I may wind up with a QB/RB at the turn. I'd love for just one or two quarterbacks to be gone by pick 1.11. If so, I may stock up on a top running back and wide receiver at the 1-2 turn and target my first quarterback at the 3-4 turn. I am fine with having two of Jimmy Garoppolo, Matt Ryan, Marcus Mariota, Kirk Cousins, Philip Rivers, Patrick Mahomes II, Andrew Luck, Jared Goff - that range.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
Someone like Case Keenum or Blake Bortles
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
This will probably wind up being a wide receiver because there are more options at receiver later in the draft who can blossom into a flex option type of player. I also tend to draft better with receivers than running backs. I wouldn't rule out a tight end as a flex option. It all depends on how the draft unfolds, what positional needs I'll have in specific areas of the draft, etc.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
If Travis Kelce or Zach Ertz is available at the 3-4 turn, I may elect to take a tight end early. Otherwise, I'll target one in the 5-6 or 7-8 turn. The addition of quarterback flex makes speculating difficult. I generally won't wait that long for my TE2. I like to target the Colts duo as my TE2 by committee, especially in best ball drafts.
6. Discuss drafting from the #11 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
This is difficult to project because of the quarterback flex wrinkle, but I generally enjoy drafting near the turn. If there are two players of interest on my radar, I have the luxury of taking both. I can also project which one to target first based on the drafter's roster in the 12-spot. If they have yet to draft a second quarterback and I want to take one with my pick, I'll do so on the beginning of the turn and pick someone else with my other pick.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
I generally target rookies later in the draft and usually don't pull the trigger on a questionable rookie running back who has competition from a veteran. I'd rather have a more reliable player for my starting lineup than a hopeful player. I guess I'm more conservative in that regard. That's not to say I won't drink the rookie Kool-Aid, but I would have to have a strong positive opinion on a player to take the plunge. I am fine taking a suspended player, i.e Mark Ingram. I love Ingram at a discount, but I don't see the value at the 3-4 turn. If I am to select him, it will likely be at the 5-6 turn. If he's there at 5.11, I'll take him. The increase of quarterback selections just might give me a chance to do so in this draft.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
- QB: 2
- RB: 3
- WR: 3
- TE: 2
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
- Mark Ingram. I'll take him at 5.11 if he's there.
- Michael Crabtree. I struggle to think of a better WR3. He should be heavily targeted, especially in the red zone.
- Lamar Miller: He has slimmed down and appears locked in on his role this year. The questionable status of DOnta Foreman is definitely a positive for Miller
- Chris Hogan: His ADP stock is on the rise, but I still like him in the sixth round.
- Jordan Reed: I am of the belief that he's on an upswing in terms of career performance. Players get hurt and suffer down seasons all the time. Reed had his, and his upswing is coming.
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
The more I think of it, I wouldn't mind having Joe Flacco and Lamar Jackson as my QB3 by committee. Perhaps snagging them both at the 13-14 turn? At wide receiver I'm targeting Keelan Cole and Anthony Miller.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
If Jacksonville is on the board at the 15-16 turn, I will probably pull the trigger. Otherwise, I will target Minnesota, Denver, Houston or one of the Los Angeles teams. A second defense is one that I have high hopes for that's under the radar. Perhaps a team like Atlanta, New Orleans or Tennessee.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
Pick
|
Overall
|
Position
|
Player
|
Team
|
1.12
|
12
|
RB
|
KCC
|
|
2.01
|
13
|
RB
|
Dalvin Cook
|
MIN
|
3.12
|
36
|
WR
|
Jarvis Landry
|
CLE
|
4.01
|
37
|
RB
|
DET
|
|
5.12
|
60
|
QB
|
WAS
|
|
6.01
|
61
|
TE
|
Evan Engram
|
NYG
|
7.12
|
84
|
WR
|
PHI
|
|
8.01
|
85
|
Def
|
Los Angeles Rams
|
LAR
|
9.12
|
108
|
WR
|
Cole Beasley
|
DAL
|
10.01
|
109
|
RB
|
Chris Thompson
|
WAS
|
11.12
|
132
|
WR
|
Rishard Matthews
|
TEN
|
12.01
|
133
|
QB
|
Mitchell Trubisky
|
CHI
|
13.12
|
156
|
TE
|
CLE
|
|
14.01
|
157
|
WR
|
BAL
|
|
15.12
|
180
|
QB
|
BAL
|
|
16.01
|
181
|
RB
|
Darren Sproles
|
PHI
|
17.12
|
204
|
WR
|
Taylor Gabriel
|
CHI
|
18.01
|
205
|
WR
|
Courtland Sutton
|
DEN
|
19.12
|
228
|
RB
|
NYG
|
|
20.01
|
229
|
QB
|
CLE
|
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. You selected two highly ranked tight ends in Zach Ertz and Jimmy Graham in the fourth and fifth round. Why did you decide to go that route?
The decision to take Jimmy Graham and pass on Derrick Henry may haunt me. I like my tight end corps with those two, and then I added Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard later in the draft, because everyone was passing on them. Since this is a best ball draft with a flex, I like my chances to do well at this position. My running backs definitely could've been stronger, if I skipped over Graham. If I could have a mulligan in this draft, it would be that pick.
2. Explain your interest in Michael Crabtree this year. Is he capable of being a WR2 caliber player?
I do think Michael Crabtree can be a WR2 caliber player, but I would much rather draft him as a WR3. I expect him to lead the Ravens in receptions by a wide margin and he should be the primary focus in the red zone. He brings a veteran presence to the team that will surely be rewarded with production. He's an excellent WR3 this year who has the ability and opportunity to put up WR2 numbers.
3. How important is it to have a Top 5 defense in a best ball draft? State your case for why people should target an elite defense.
In drafts of this format, it's good to have multiple defenses. A top-tier defense can allow you to wait on a second defense, because only one can count towards your score each week. Chances are, the elite defense will be the primary winner of this roster battle.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Jeff went with an interesting strategy by taking two of the top four tight ends off the board. This will give him great flexibility at the flex position and in the trade market. Jeff took a high risk-high reward strategy at the quarterback position taking two players who have a combined 13 starts in the NFL in DeShaun Watson and Jimmy Garoppolo. Both of these players, have tremendous upside and could lead Jeff to one of the best duos in the NFL.
Weaknesses
While Jeff got great value out of Leonard Fournette in the first round, he is going to have some tough choices each week on who will be his second running back that he will start as he waited until the eighth round to take another running back with Tarik Cohen. He backed this up by taking James White and C.J. Anderson in three consecutive rounds, so the depth of running backs is solid it will just be a difficult task for Jeff to decide which of Cohen, White, and Anderson he will start each week.
How He’ll Win It All
If DeShaun Watson and Jimmy Garoppolo prove they can be the guys that we saw last season, Jeff is going to have one of the best quarterback duos in the league. If something were to happen to Christian McCaffrey giving C.J. Anderson the primary role Jeff’s team could be extremely dangerous.
DRAFT SLOT 12
Mike Tanier, Bleacher Report
Mike Tanier is the NFL lead columnist for Bleacher Report and a co-author of Football Outsiders Almanac. He has written for Football Outsiders, the New York Times, Sports on Earth and many other outlets in his decade-plus in the business. He began playing fantasy football in 1992 and quit several years ago because it became too much like work.
PRE-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. How many of each position do you plan to take?
I like being deep at running back and quarterback to avoid early-season injury catastrophes. I can always grab dudes at other positions. I may try to grab eight running backs or something. Not sure if that is legal.
2. What is your strategy regarding the QB position in a Superflex draft?
Get a good player.
Let me get this out of the way now: I'm like the Jon Gruden of this fantasy league. I was winning leagues back in the days of "franchise football," dial-up modems and getting scores out of Monday's print USA Today. But I drifted away from fantasy football years ago as I transitioned into semi-traditional football coverage. Now, like Gruden, I only understand about half the jargon getting thrown around, and I don't care, because I am old school and I rock.
3. Who is the lowest ranked quarterback that you would want as your QB2 flex option?
I semi-understand what this means. If I keep 3 QBs, I like one to be a guy who will never lose his job so I have injury insulation and one to be a high-upside high-risk guy.
4. After quarterback, what position would be your next greatest interest as a flex option?
Back in the 90s, we flexed running backs or we didn't flex. That's how I plan to roll.
5. What is your general strategy regarding the tight end position? When are you planning to draft the first at this position?
Back in the day, I liked grabbing a second tight end soon after the first, because a lot of gamers will settle for almost nothing from the position if Plan A fails. These days, with no Gonzo-Gates-Witten sure things and a high injury risk for Gronk, I will probably just try to grab one of the quality young dudes like Engram or Njoku.
6. Discuss drafting from the #12 hole. What will you do differently because of this draft slot?
I used to love snake drafting last in friends-and-family leagues because the back-to-back picks are great and I felt like my insidery knowledge gave me an edge picking a little later. In this shark tank of experts, I figure picking last in the first round takes away the anxiety of making a mistake with a top pick and builds in an excuse for failure.
7. What's your approach to rookies, injured players, and/or suspended players that may not have a full workload to start the season?
I like to poach suspended players who slip through the cracks. If I have any fear of a lingering injury I pass on the player. As for rookies, in friends/family leagues I used to clean up taking midround rookie RBs that weren't listed in the fantasy magazines. Then half the dudes in my league were subscribing to FootballGuys or Rotoworld and so on, so all of a sudden my buddy was drafting Royce Freeman a round before I was. For this draft, as you may have guessed, I plan to wing it.
8. At the mid-point of the draft (10 rounds), how many players at each position do you expect to have?
Wait ... this will run 20 rounds? I might not have the rules 100% down. Oh well: let's say 2 QBs, 4 RBs, 2 WR, a tight end and maybe some other thing.
9. Name five position players that you will target in round six or later.
No idea. I figure in a league like this there will be a lot of speculators making sexy-trendy picks on young players. I will probably try to feed on boring veterans who can still play. Did I mention I am the Jon Gruden of this league?
10. Name a sleeper or player you can stash (round 10 on) at QB, RB, WR or TE that you will be targeting in this draft.
Nyheem Hines, maybe? He's a great RB-WR-Slot guy who will catch some passes, and he was a great interview.
11. What is your strategy at the Defense/ST position in this draft?
I can answer this one! I plan to draft off the KUBIAK list from Football Outsiders! Years ago, we figured out that last year's sacks lead to this year's fantasy points on defense, and I always follow that strategy. I also don't draft defense early because that's just sad. But I have one other thought, after interviewing some special teams lifers this season: kickoff return TOTALs are gonna be up, which means kickoff return touchdowns will be up, so I will be looking for a defense-ST with a dynamic returner.
DRAFT SELECTIONS
PICK | OVR | SELECTION |
1.12 | 12 | Hunt, Kareem KCC RB |
2.01 | 13 | Cook, Dalvin MIN RB |
3.12 | 36 | Landry, Jarvis CLE WR |
4.01 | 37 | Johnson, Kerryon DET RB |
5.12 | 60 | Smith, Alex WAS QB |
6.01 | 61 | Engram, Evan NYG TE |
7.12 | 84 | Agholor, Nelson PHI WR |
8.01 | 85 | Rams, Los Angeles LAR Def |
9.12 | 108 | Beasley, Cole DAL WR |
10.01 | 109 | Thompson, Chris WAS RB |
11.12 | 132 | Matthews, Rishard TEN WR |
12.01 | 133 | Trubisky, Mitchell CHI QB |
13.12 | 156 | Njoku, David CLE TE |
14.01 | 157 | Brown, John BAL WR |
15.12 | 180 | Jackson, Lamar BAL QB |
16.01 | 181 | Sproles, Darren PHI RB |
17.12 | 204 | Gabriel, Taylor CHI WR |
18.01 | 205 | Sutton, Courtland DEN WR |
19.12 | 228 | Stewart, Jonathan NYG RB |
20.01 | 229 | Mayfield, Baker CLE QB |
POST-DRAFT QUESTIONS
1. In the pre-draft questions, you touched on the "Kubiak list" on Football Outsiders for choosing a fantasy defense in the pre-draft questions. Expound on that some more. You wound up selecting the Rams defense with pick 8.01 in this draft. Why are they worthy of such a high pick and explain why people should target them in drafts that require a defense.
OK, let me preface this by saying that if I claimed that Football Outsiders advocated drafting any defense as high as I drafted the Rams, Aaron Schatz would cut me out of the book and disavow all knowledge of me. I drafted the Rams incredibly high because I didn't like what I saw at other positions, and in friends-and-family leagues you can often draft the first defense (kicker, tight end) on the board and then start a huge run. Start a run, and you can grab high-value players at more important positions while your brother-in-law is taking the ninth best defense because he is afraid they will somehow run out.
Anyway, the KUBIAK projection system from Football Outsiders is built from lots of complex algorithms: aging models, usage projections by Football Outsiders writers, and so on. On defense, it projects touchdown and turnover potential based, in part, on sack expectations. Sacks are pretty predictable from year to year, whereas defensive touchdowns are nearly random, and both interceptions and fumbles are tiny samples impacted by luck and strength of schedule. The Rams recorded 48 sacks last season and, once Aaron Donald is signed, upgraded their defensive line and pass rush. (Suh for Quinn is an upgrade). They are a safe bet for around 50 sacks and the mayhem those sacks cause, which should yield turnovers, and therefore the potential for defensive touchdowns. It's a better risk than assuming the Jaguars are going to keep scooping up fumbles, though that's not to say the Jaguars (with that withering pass rush and those CBs) are a bad risk by any means.
2. You mentioned you like targeting boring veterans in drafts, especially this format. Explain why you would rather have a known commodity in best ball drafts than a younger, lesser know player with upside?
I think there's a speculator mentality that takes hold in both expert leagues like this one and leagues full of guys who subscribe to Football Guys and other services (in other words, leagues full of people who study the experts). We all want to catch players on the rise, and we all want to avoid paying a premium for last year's stats when there is a high probability that they will not be duplicated. That said, there's often a risk of filling a team with all of our favorite Josh Doctson types, then having to scramble on the waiver wire early in the year to find rank-and-file players.
I drafted Kerryon Johnson early, so I'm not some Gruden Luddite who hates youngsters of your standard brother-in-law who drafts Frank Gore in the third round because he drafted him in 2012. But I think I got Jonathan Stewart in the last round. He's Saquon's "handcuff," and the Giants are going to rotate their backs and use Saquon as a receiver at times, meaning Stewart will get reliable touches and some goal line work. I argue that Stewart has a higher probability of having a big year than many of the young backs taken in the rounds before him.
I will argue Alex Smith the same way. I get the high-upside argument for working through the growing pains of a DeShaun, Garroppolo or Mahomes. Well, Smith gives me a reliable starter with a strong overall offense, rushing yard and TD potential, and ZERO risk that I splurged based on a 1-to-6 game sample and the urge to chase upside. Later in the draft, I took Trubisky, Lamar Jackson and Baker Mayfield for speculation purposes (with Lamar as a possible fluke guy providing PPR or something). But I won't have to turn to any of them unless they outplay Smith.
The bottom line is that I am a "moderate growth fund" type investor. If 11 gamers are shooting for the moon with high-risk high-yield guys, I can increase my chances of beating them by managing risks and building a team that can win even if only a handful of the trendy guys pan out.
DEVIN KNOTTS' EVALUATION
Strengths
Mike took advantage of the draft selection as he got Kareem Hunt and Dalvin Cook on the turn which is tremendous value and immediately gives him the strongest running back group in the league. Mike backed this up by taking rookie Kerryon Johnson in the fourth round giving him some upside with the two elite running backs he already has. Mike believes in the Rams defense being elite as he went out and grabbed them in the 8th round three rounds before the next defense selection. There is a lot to like about the Rams defense as they should lead the NFL in sacks this season.
Weaknesses
In a Superflex format, Mike is going to need Mitchell Trubisky to have a breakout year as he waited on taking a second quarterback and then has two players who will not start the season as the starter in Lamar Jackson and Baker Mayfield.
Wide receiver is also potentially an issue for Mike as while he took Jarvis Landry in the third round who should have a tremendous year in Cleveland, the rest of his wide receivers are guys who are going to need a breakout year in Nelson Agholor, Cole Beasley, and the injured Rishard Matthews.
How He’ll Win It All
If Nelson Agholor and Mitchell Trubisky can have a good year, Mike’s team is going to be very strong. His running back group is the strongest in the league and he will look to Kareem Hunt and Dalvin Cook to stay healthy to win this league.
View Draft Grid
Questions, suggestions, and comments are always welcome to haseley@footballguys.com