Top Fantasy Picks for the 2021 NFL Draft
With the NFL draft just around the corner, you must start thinking about who you want to pick in your fantasy league. You can use our handy top fantasy picks to help you determine which players are most likely to improve your team.
The key is prioritizing running backs and wide receivers first, with the backup quarterback a last-minute pick if necessary.
Christian McCaffrey ( Top Fantasy Picks )
McCaffrey has been a top-five fantasy running back in the last two seasons, and he could be a top-10 option this year if he stays healthy.
San Francisco coach Kyle Shanahan hasn’t decided McCaffrey’s status for Sunday’s NFC Championship Game against Philadelphia. Still, he could be on the field if he gets in enough work this week.
Austin Ekeler
Ekeler is a sure-fire fantasy football play every week and is well worth a spot in your lineup. He’s led all running backs in targets in the past two seasons and has a massive touchdown upside.
His 107 receptions last season set a franchise single-season record, and he was a vital part of an offence that scored 38 total touchdowns. He is an excellent option for drafters in 2023.
Najee Harris
After running for more than 1,200 yards and ten touchdowns as a rookie last season, Pittsburgh Steelers’ second-year back Najee Harris is a top fantasy pick for the upcoming 2023 season. He is a high-volume back who can bring PPR upside and is a solid flex option.
He has an intense matchup this week against the Browns and should be in fantasy lineups every time he is on the field. But there are some things to consider when building your team around him.
Derrick Henry
Derrick Henry is one of the NFL’s most valuable fantasy running backs. He led the league in carries and rushing yards in 2021 and has established himself as a top-tier back.
He has a strong chance of leading the Titans to a playoff run this season if he can stay healthy. However, Henry is still 29 years old, and his efficiency has declined in recent seasons.
Dalvin Cook
If you’re looking for a high-upside running back, Dalvin Cook is worth a look. He is going against the worst run defence in the NFL this week, so he has a chance to produce again.
The Vikings aren’t likely to rest their starters this week, so I expect him to get a fair amount of carries. However, Cook is a risk this week because he has a history of shoulder injuries.
Stefon Diggs
Stefon Diggs is a top fantasy wide receiver with a great floor and a consistent source of touchdowns throughout the season. He also has a high ceiling and could finish this year as a top-five fantasy option.
He will face off against a Bengals defence in Week 15 that has been better at stopping the pass this season. With a favourable matchup, Diggs will remain an elite fantasy option.
Ja’Marr Chase
Chase has already made a name for himself as one of the top fantasy wideouts in 2023. He has developed a unique chemistry with quarterback Joe Burrow, which coulda allow him to continue producing eye-popping numbers for years.
He finished with 1,046 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 12 games this season despite missing four games with a hip injury. He could challenge Justin Jefferson for the top spot if he stays healthy.
George Kittle
Kittle is one of the best tight ends in fantasy football, but he usually falls in the second or third round of drafts. Thankfully, he still provides plenty of value as a sleeper.
He caught three passes for 32 yards in Sunday’s NFC Championship Game against Philadelphia and has the potential to be an impact player in the postseason. He also has a solid matchup with the Eagles, who have allowed the most touchdowns to tight ends this season.
Darren Waller
Darren Waller is one of the most underrated tight ends in fantasy football, and he’s been a top-three finisher in his two seasons as a starter. He’s also a volume player that has the potential to be even more productive this year.
He’s the clear number-one receiver in a passing attack that is fearless in taking chances with players like Wan’Dale Robinson and Isaiah Hodgins. He should be able to tally plenty of targets and catch passes from quarterback Daniel Jones, putting him up with Travis Kelce for second-tier tight-end value.
Dalton Schultz
Dalton Schultz has been a consistent pass-catcher at tight end for the Dallas Cowboys over the last three seasons. He racked up 11 TE1 weeks in 2021 and has become QB Dak Prescott’s security blanket over the middle at the position.
He’s signed with the Houston Texans as their clear TE1 on a one-year, $9 million deal. However, he’ll have to deal with a rookie quarterback and a lack of an elite receiver.