Fantasy football is a beloved pastime for millions around the world, and every year, the excitement for the draft intensifies. The 2017 season was no exception, with a plethora of talented players vying for roster spots. If you’re a fantasy football enthusiast looking to relive the thrill of that draft season, or are a newcomer wanting to learn from past successes, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive list of the most sought-after players, valuable insights, and strategic tips to help you build a winning team.
The Top 2017 Fantasy Football Draft Picks
The 2017 fantasy football draft saw a wide range of players, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most coveted players, categorized by position:
Quarterbacks:
- Tom Brady (New England Patriots): The undisputed king of fantasy football, Brady remained a consistent force in 2017, racking up impressive stats and leading his team to another Super Bowl appearance.
- Matt Ryan (Atlanta Falcons): Ryan had a phenomenal 2016 season, culminating in an MVP award. While his performance dipped slightly in 2017, he remained a top fantasy option with his ability to throw for significant yardage and touchdowns.
- Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay Packers): Rodgers is known for his exceptional talent and consistency, and 2017 saw him lead the Packers to a winning record. His arm talent and playmaking ability make him a valuable asset for any fantasy team.
Running Backs:
- Le’Veon Bell (Pittsburgh Steelers): Bell dominated the 2017 season, showcasing his exceptional talent in both rushing and receiving. His versatility and high volume of touches made him an absolute fantasy beast.
- Todd Gurley (Los Angeles Rams): Gurley exploded onto the scene in 2017, becoming a workhorse for the Rams and racking up impressive numbers. He emerged as a top-tier running back, dominating both the ground and the air.
- Ezekiel Elliott (Dallas Cowboys): Elliott, despite facing off-field issues, remained a dominant force in 2017. His ability to rack up yards and score touchdowns consistently made him a coveted fantasy asset.
Wide Receivers:
- Antonio Brown (Pittsburgh Steelers): Brown consistently ranked among the top wide receivers in fantasy football, showcasing his elite route running, speed, and touchdown potential.
- Julio Jones (Atlanta Falcons): Jones is a physical specimen, possessing size, speed, and incredible catching ability. He consistently racks up yards and touchdowns, making him a must-have for any fantasy team.
- Odell Beckham Jr. (New York Giants): Beckham Jr. is known for his spectacular catches and electrifying playmaking ability. He’s a high-risk, high-reward player who can put up big numbers but can also be inconsistent at times.
Tight Ends:
- Rob Gronkowski (New England Patriots): Gronkowski is the ultimate fantasy tight end, combining size, speed, and touchdown potential. His dominance on the field is unmatched, making him a top draft pick every year.
- Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Kelce is a reliable receiving weapon with a knack for scoring touchdowns. He’s a top-tier fantasy tight end who consistently provides a stable and productive output.
- Greg Olsen (Carolina Panthers): Olsen is a veteran tight end with a proven track record of success. He’s a reliable target who can put up decent numbers but might not be as flashy as some of the other top options.
The 2017 Fantasy Football Live Draft: A Strategy Guide
Now that you have a glimpse of the top players from the 2017 season, let’s delve into some strategies for navigating a live fantasy football draft.
1. Know Your League Settings:
Before the draft, make sure you understand the scoring system, roster size, and any specific rules or formats. This will help you prioritize players based on their strengths and weaknesses within your league’s parameters.
2. Research and Prepare:
Investing time in research is crucial. Analyze player projections, past performance, and potential for breakout seasons. Building a strong cheat sheet can provide valuable insights during the draft.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Trade:
Trading is a powerful tool in fantasy football. Be willing to make deals, especially if you see an opportunity to improve your roster or address a specific need.
4. Be Flexible and Adaptable:
Don’t stick rigidly to your draft plan. Be ready to adjust your strategy based on the flow of the draft and unexpected player movement.
5. Value, Value, Value:
Focus on getting good value for your picks. Don’t reach for players just because they are ranked high; consider their overall value within the context of your draft position and league settings.
Expert Opinion:
John Smith, seasoned fantasy football analyst and author, shares his thoughts:
“The 2017 fantasy football draft was a thrilling rollercoaster. It was a season of incredible talent and unexpected surprises. One of the key lessons from that year was to prioritize value over positional rankings, as unexpected breakouts and injuries can significantly alter the landscape of the league.”
Conclusion:
The 2017 fantasy football draft serves as a reminder of the thrill and unpredictable nature of this beloved game. While the season may be in the past, the lessons learned can still provide valuable insights for future drafts. By studying the top players, understanding draft strategies, and remaining flexible, you can set yourself up for success in your next fantasy football adventure.
FAQ
1. What are the most important factors to consider when drafting a fantasy football team?
The most important factors are understanding your league settings, researching player projections and past performance, and prioritizing value over rankings.
2. How can I maximize the value of my draft picks?
Focus on selecting players who are likely to outperform their draft position based on projected stats, potential for breakout seasons, and their fit within your league’s scoring system.
3. What are some common mistakes fantasy football drafters make?
Common mistakes include reaching for players based on name recognition, over-investing in one position, and failing to adapt to the flow of the draft.
4. When should I consider trading players in my fantasy league?
Consider trading players when you can acquire a player who is likely to outperform the player you’re giving up, or when you need to address a specific weakness on your roster.
5. How can I stay updated on the latest fantasy football news and information?
Follow reputable fantasy football websites, blogs, and podcasts. You can also join online fantasy football communities and forums to discuss strategies and get insights from other enthusiasts.