Quarterback

Just as the NFL has elite quarterbacks, so does fantasy. Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Joe Burrow have racked up huge numbers for their teams and fantasy managers, but there is plenty of depth this year, and quality quarterbacks can be found in later rounds, if you choose to wait at the position.

Early Rounds

• Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: Coach John Harbaugh believes Jackson is one of the best passers in NFL history. His running ability makes him one of the best fantasy quarterbacks.
• Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: Allen has won an MVP, gotten married, and restructured his contract as he looks to improve upon his incredible 2024 season.

Middle Rounds

• Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mayfield has exceeded expectations while the Buccaneers have assembled potent offensive options.
• Bo Nix, Denver Broncos: Nix is a better dual threat than people realize and can rack up fantasy points with his legs as much as his arm.

Late Rounds

• Drake Maye, New England Patriots: A bigger version of Bo Nix, Maye can score points in the air or on the ground.
• Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta Falcons: Penix proved he belongs and is the Falcons' quarterback of the future.

Running Back

A case can be made to draft either Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs with the No. 1 pick this season. This crop of running backs has been elevated by a number of rookies who have a chance to make meaningful fantasy contributions.

Early Rounds

• Bijan Robinson, Falcons: He would be my No. 1 pick this year.
• Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions: Gibbs might just be the most dynamic offensive player in the NFL.

Middle Rounds

• Omarion Hampton, Los Angeles Chargers: Expected to be the lead back under Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman.
• TreVeyon Henderson, Patriots: Demonstrated speed, elusiveness, and big-play ability this preseason.

Late Rounds

• Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Washington Commanders: There has been an inordinate amount of hype surrounding this seventh-round pick.
• Trey Benson, Arizona Cardinals: It's time for last year's third-round draft pick to show he has a place in Arizona's offense.

Wide Receiver

With the NFL's reliance on the passing game, this could be the deepest group of wideouts in fantasy history. Catching contributors are available at all levels of the draft.

Early Rounds

• Ja'Marr Chase, Bengals: No contract drama this year, and his connection with Burrow is next level.
• Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions: Target machine who is as tough and dependable as they come.

Middle Rounds

• Marvin Harrison Jr., Cardinals: He will not be drafted as high as last year, but he likely will produce more this year.
• Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle Seahawks: Showed how productive he could be during his rookie season.

Late Rounds

• Jordan Addison, Minnesota Vikings: A three-game suspension dings his value, but once he returns, he is expected to be a force.
• Matthew Golden, Green Bay Packers: Injuries have impacted the Packers' wide receivers, and Golden is a good bet to produce.

Tight End

This is a top-heavy position, with Brock Bowers, Trey McBride, and George Kittle being the headliners. Once it gets past them, there is uncertainty and some risk.

Early Rounds

• Brock Bowers, Las Vegas Raiders: Looked like a star in his rookie season in Vegas.
• Trey McBride, Cardinals: Played like a baby Gronk at times last season.

Middle Rounds

• Sam LaPorta, Lions: Flashed superstar potential as a rookie in 2023.
• Evan Engram, Broncos: Sean Payton has been waiting for an effective pass-catching tight end.

Late Rounds

• Isaiah Likely, Ravens: Could be the No. 1 tight end on many teams.
• Theo Johnson, Giants: Was a factor as his rookie season progressed and should be even better this season.