Perfect Fantasy Football Draft: Round-by-Round Targets & Advice

The news emphasizes the importance of preparing a flexible battle plan for 2025 fantasy football drafts, as drafts are unpredictable and competitors may make unexpected picks. It advises against rigid strategies, recommending instead to be nimble and practice using tools like the FantasyPros Draft Simulator for mock drafts before the season. Analysts' specific draft plans are highlighted for reference.

Key strategies include building depth at wide receiver (WR) and running back (RB), particularly by targeting unsettled backfields for late-round RB picks where roles could change abruptly. For leagues with 14 or more teams or large rosters, drafting a second quarterback is suggested. Additionally, if a league includes team defense and kicker positions but doesn't require drafting them, it's better to skip them in favor of selecting extra late-round RBs as potential high-upside "lottery tickets"; these can be dropped before the season starts for necessary positions if needed.

Specific player analysis focuses on J.J. McCarthy (QB – MIN), noting his potential despite limited preseason play. The Vikings' pass-heavy offense, which ranked high in neutral passing rate and pass rate over expectation in 2024, is cited, along with strong supporting skill players and offensive line improvements. McCarthy's college performance, including top-12 rankings in key metrics like passing grade and yards per attempt per Pro Football Focus, supports expectations for a successful 2025 season, continuing a trend of Kevin O’Connell-coached quarterbacks finishing as QB1s.