Winning a fantasy football league is about more than prize money – it’s about proving you’re better than your friends, colleagues, and neighbors. As the peak fantasy draft season approaches, it’s time to schedule your draft, collect league fees, and lock in.
While opinions on top picks like Saquon Barkley vary, six timeless principles can help you find league-winning picks this season and beyond:
1. **Take a late-round flier on preseason risers**: Receivers, running backs, and tight ends often shine in training camp, making them ideal late-round targets.
2. **Stash discount running backs with upside**: These cheap backups could become every-down starters, helping you outscore your opponents consistently.
3. **Draft quarterbacks who run**: Explosive rushing yards and touchdowns can make a significant difference in fantasy scoring, so look for quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen.
4. **Target young receivers who finished strong**: Players like Brian Thomas, Malik Nabers, and Jalen McMillan could elevate their game in 2023, making them attractive targets.
5. **Go against consensus**: Take a preseason faller or boring veteran in a new situation to outsmart the competition.
6. **Draft more rookies**: Despite slower starts, rookies often have untapped upside, making them worth considering in fantasy drafts.
Experts like Jake Ciely agree that these principles can lead to league-winning picks. His latest insights and rankings are available in The Athletic’s full draft kit.
Stay ahead of the competition with these six strategies and don’t miss out on The Athletic’s free NFL newsletter, which provides exclusive insights and analysis every week.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6536810/2025/08/05/fantasy-football-sleepers-breakouts-2025-targets-jake-ciely-scoop-city-nfl