Dynasty is arguably the best form of fantasy football. It’s a year-round game that allows fantasy players so many ways to build their team into a contender. However, which draft strategy is the best?
The honest answer is that there is no answer. You can only screw up your dynasty team by not having a draft strategy. However, having a draft strategy and executing it are two different things.
This dynasty strategy primer won’t cover every possible startup draft strategy, as there are too many strategies to cover. However, I’m going to highlight five of the more popular draft strategies fantasy players use when wanting to compete in the first year. Unfortunately, I won’t get to cover my favorite draft strategy: Tanking the first year.
We’re here to help you prepare for your dynasty draft. Let’s look at our Robust RB dynasty draft strategy. For more dynasty fantasy football content and advice, check out the FantasyPros Dynasty Draft Kit.
- 2024 Dynasty Fantasy Football Draft Kit
- 2024 Best Ball Fantasy Football Draft Kit
- Free Fantasy Football Mock Draft Simulator
- Dynasty Fantasy Football Rankings
Dynasty Draft Strategy
Robust RB Strategy
Overview
This draft strategy is my favorite because I am a running back fanatic. Some also refer to this strategy as Zero WR. Unlike Zero RB, fantasy players want to load up on running backs. At least your first two picks should be a running back, maybe even the first three selections. Furthermore, you don’t want to draft two running backs and ignore the position for several rounds. By the end of the fourth round, you want three running backs on your roster.
I love this draft strategy because of the depth at the wide receiver position. In 2022, Rhamondre Stevenson was the RB11, averaging 12.6 half-PPR fantasy points per game. Meanwhile, Jerick McKinnon was the RB21, averaging 9.9 fantasy points per contest. By comparison, Christian Kirk was the WR11, averaging 11.8 fantasy points per game, compared to Jerry Jeudy, who was the WR21, averaging 11.4 fantasy points per contest. Furthermore, Chuba Hubbard was the RB50 in 2022, averaging 5.4 fantasy points per game. Jahan Dotson was the WR50, averaging 9.4 fantasy points per contest by comparison.
Pros:
- You load up at a position that lacks superstar depth and weekly higher scorers.
- Fantasy players can avoid streaming or playing the matchup with their RB2 spot.
Cons:
- Running backs have the shortest shelf life, so fantasy players must replace more of their roster in 5-7 years.
- You can’t pull this strategy off and secure a top tight end and quarterback without making a trade or getting lucky.
Players to Target:
When fantasy players use a Hero RB draft strategy, you want more certainty at the position. That’s because you only have one superstar. If he busts or gets hurt, your team will struggle. However, you will draft at least three running backs with your first four picks with the Robust RB strategy. Therefore, fantasy players can be more aggressive and target young running backs with upside and guys with injury history. That’s because if one struggles, you have plenty of top-end depth to replace him.
Dynasty Draft Advice
- Fitz’s Dynasty Draft Primers
Dynasty Rookie Draft Advice
- DBro’s Dynasty Rookie Draft Primers
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | SoundCloud | iHeartRadio
Mike Fanelli is a featured writer at FantasyPros. For more from Mike, check out his archive and follow him @Mike_NFL2.