2024 Fantasy Football Rankings: Top Players & Expert Tiers

Get ready for your fantasy draft with the ultimate 2024 fantasy football rankings! These expert rankings cover the top players across all positions (needs verification), offering insights to dominate your league this season. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy veteran or a newcomer (needs verification), understanding player values is crucial for building a winning team.

Top Quarterback (QB) Rankings

Quarterbacks are the engine of any successful fantasy football team, and identifying the top performers is critical. A high-scoring quarterback can provide a significant advantage over your opponents. Key factors to consider when evaluating quarterbacks include passing yards, touchdowns, rushing ability, and the overall strength of their offensive supporting cast. This 2024 season boasts a compelling mix of established stars and rising talents at the quarterback position.

Patrick Mahomes consistently tops fantasy football rankings due to his exceptional talent and the Kansas City Chiefs' high-powered offense. Mahomes' ability to make plays both with his arm and legs makes him a dual-threat quarterback, providing a high floor and ceiling each week. His connection with Travis Kelce and other receiving targets further solidifies his fantasy value. Despite facing defensive attention, Mahomes continues to deliver top-tier fantasy production, making him a coveted pick in any fantasy draft.

Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills is another elite quarterback who consistently ranks among the top fantasy performers. Allen's rushing ability sets him apart, as he frequently adds significant yardage and touchdowns on the ground. His strong arm and talented receiving corps, including Stefon Diggs, make the Bills' passing attack one of the most potent in the league. Allen's dual-threat capabilities and the Bills' offensive scheme make him a weekly contender for the highest-scoring quarterback in fantasy football.

Jalen Hurts, quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, has rapidly ascended the fantasy quarterback ranks. Hurts' combination of passing prowess and rushing ability makes him a dynamic fantasy option. The Eagles' offense is designed to maximize Hurts' strengths, with a strong offensive line and talented receivers like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Hurts' potential for both passing and rushing touchdowns gives him a high fantasy ceiling, making him a top-tier quarterback in 2024 fantasy football rankings.

Joe Burrow, leading the Cincinnati Bengals, is a quarterback on the rise in fantasy circles. Burrow's accuracy, decision-making, and the Bengals' explosive offense make him a valuable fantasy asset. The presence of star receivers like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins provides Burrow with ample opportunities to rack up passing yards and touchdowns. As Burrow continues to develop and the Bengals' offense evolves, he has the potential to become one of the top quarterbacks in fantasy football.

Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens remains a dynamic fantasy quarterback due to his exceptional rushing ability. Jackson's legs provide a significant boost to his fantasy scoring, as he consistently gains substantial yardage on the ground and frequently finds the end zone. When combined with his arm talent, Jackson’s unique skill set makes him a weekly threat. With the Ravens' focus on a balanced offense, Jackson remains a top-tier fantasy quarterback option.

Top Running Back (RB) Rankings

Running backs are the foundation of many successful fantasy football teams, providing crucial points through rushing yards, receptions, and touchdowns. Identifying workhorse running backs who receive a high volume of carries and targets is essential for fantasy success. The running back landscape can be volatile, with injuries and shifting roles impacting player values. In 2024, a mix of established stars and emerging talents populate the top of the running back rankings.

Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers is widely regarded as the top running back in fantasy football due to his exceptional versatility and consistent production. McCaffrey excels as both a runner and receiver, making him a focal point of the 49ers' offense. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game gives him a high floor and ceiling in fantasy scoring. McCaffrey's receiving skills, in particular, set him apart from other running backs, making him a weekly must-start in any fantasy format.

Bijan Robinson, the highly touted rookie running back for the Atlanta Falcons, is generating significant buzz in fantasy circles. Robinson possesses a rare blend of power, speed, and agility, making him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. The Falcons' commitment to running the ball and Robinson's potential to handle a large workload make him a potential fantasy superstar. Robinson's pass-catching abilities further enhance his fantasy value, positioning him as a top running back option in 2024.

Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers has consistently ranked among the top fantasy running backs due to his receiving prowess and goal-line usage. Ekeler's ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a valuable asset in PPR (points per reception) formats. His nose for the end zone further enhances his fantasy value, as he frequently scores touchdowns. Despite facing competition for carries, Ekeler's role in the passing game ensures he remains a top-tier fantasy running back.

Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts is a dynamic running back with the potential to dominate fantasy leagues. Taylor possesses the speed, power, and elusiveness to break off long runs and score touchdowns. The Colts' offensive line and commitment to the running game provide Taylor with a favorable environment for success. If healthy, Taylor has the potential to be the top-scoring running back in fantasy football.

Saquon Barkley, now with the Philadelphia Eagles, is a supremely talented running back with the potential to be a fantasy football force. Barkley's combination of power, speed, and receiving ability makes him a threat in all facets of the game. The Eagles' strong offensive line and potent offense provide Barkley with an ideal environment to thrive. If Barkley can stay healthy, he has the potential to be a top-5 fantasy running back.

Top Wide Receiver (WR) Rankings

Wide receivers are crucial components of any fantasy football team, providing significant points through receptions, yards, and touchdowns. The modern NFL emphasizes the passing game, making wide receivers more valuable than ever in fantasy football. Identifying receivers who command a high target share and have the potential for big plays is essential for fantasy success. The 2024 wide receiver landscape is filled with talented players, making it a deep and competitive position.

Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings is widely considered the top wide receiver in fantasy football due to his exceptional talent and consistent production. Jefferson possesses elite route-running skills, sure hands, and the ability to make contested catches. His connection with the Vikings' quarterback and his role as the primary target in the passing game make him a fantasy superstar. Jefferson's consistency and high ceiling make him a coveted pick in any fantasy draft.

Ja'Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals has quickly established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL and fantasy football. Chase's combination of size, speed, and ball skills makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His connection with quarterback Joe Burrow is undeniable, and the Bengals' explosive offense provides ample opportunities for Chase to score touchdowns. Chase's potential for big plays and high target share make him a top-tier fantasy receiver.

CeeDee Lamb of the Dallas Cowboys has emerged as a true No. 1 receiver and a fantasy football stud. Lamb's route-running ability, strong hands, and the Cowboys' pass-heavy offense make him a valuable fantasy asset. His role as the primary target in the passing game ensures a high target share, providing a consistent floor and ceiling in fantasy scoring. Lamb's versatility and playmaking ability make him a top-tier fantasy receiver.

Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins remains one of the most explosive and dynamic wide receivers in fantasy football. Hill's blazing speed and ability to stretch the field make him a threat to score on any play. His connection with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has flourished, and the Dolphins' offense is designed to maximize Hill's strengths. Hill's big-play potential and high ceiling make him a top-tier fantasy receiver.

Amon-Ra St. Brown of the Detroit Lions has quickly become a fantasy football darling due to his consistent production and high target share. St. Brown's route-running ability, sure hands, and the Lions' pass-heavy offense make him a valuable fantasy asset. His role as the primary target in the passing game ensures a high floor in PPR formats. St. Brown's reliability and consistency make him a top-tier fantasy receiver.

Top Tight End (TE) Rankings

The tight end position can be a tricky one in fantasy football, with consistent production often hard to come by outside of the elite options. A top-tier tight end can provide a significant advantage over your opponents, but identifying those players is crucial. Factors to consider when evaluating tight ends include target share, red-zone usage, and the overall strength of their team's passing attack. In 2024, a few clear frontrunners have emerged at the tight end position.

Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs has been the gold standard at the tight end position for years, and he remains the top option in fantasy football. Kelce's rapport with quarterback Patrick Mahomes is unmatched, and he consistently commands a high target share in the Chiefs' potent offense. His ability to make contested catches and score touchdowns makes him a weekly must-start in any fantasy format. Kelce's consistency and high ceiling make him the clear No. 1 tight end in fantasy football.

George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers is another elite tight end who consistently ranks among the top fantasy performers. Kittle's combination of blocking and receiving ability makes him a valuable asset to the 49ers' offense. His physicality and ability to gain yards after the catch make him a threat to score on any play. Kittle's role in the 49ers' offense and his potential for big plays make him a top-tier fantasy tight end.

Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens is a reliable and productive tight end who has become a favorite target of quarterback Lamar Jackson. Andrews' size, strength, and receiving ability make him a valuable asset in the Ravens' passing game. His red-zone usage further enhances his fantasy value, as he frequently scores touchdowns. Andrews' consistency and rapport with Jackson make him a top-tier fantasy tight end.

T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings has emerged as a top-tier fantasy tight end due to his high target share and consistent production. Hockenson's route-running ability, sure hands, and role as a primary target in the Vikings' passing game make him a valuable fantasy asset. His connection with the Vikings' quarterback and his potential for big plays make him a top tight end option in fantasy football.

Sam LaPorta, the emerging talent from the Detroit Lions, has quickly grabbed attention in fantasy circles. His impressive athleticism and role in the Lions’ evolving offense make him a notable player. LaPorta’s capacity to secure catches and gain significant yardage positions him as a promising tight end choice for fantasy teams, offering potential for substantial contributions throughout the season.

Top Defense/Special Teams (DST) Rankings

The Defense/Special Teams (DST) position can be a weekly streaming option in fantasy football, but identifying consistently strong units can provide a significant advantage. Factors to consider when evaluating DSTs include sacks, turnovers, points allowed, and return yardage. The DST landscape can be volatile, with matchups and injuries impacting performance. In 2024, several defenses stand out as top fantasy options.

The San Francisco 49ers consistently rank among the top DSTs in fantasy football due to their dominant defensive line and playmaking linebackers. The 49ers' ability to generate sacks and turnovers makes them a weekly threat to score fantasy points. Their strong run defense also limits opponents' scoring opportunities. The 49ers' overall defensive prowess makes them a top-tier DST option.

The Buffalo Bills boast a formidable defense that consistently produces top-tier fantasy results. The Bills' pass rush is among the league's most effective, leading to numerous sacks and turnovers. Their secondary is also adept at intercepting passes, further enhancing their fantasy value. The Bills' defensive strength makes them a top DST option. Arrowhead Stadium: Guide To Kansas City's Iconic Venue

The Dallas Cowboys have become a fantasy football darling due to their knack for creating turnovers and scoring defensive touchdowns. The Cowboys' pass rush is a force to be reckoned with, and their secondary is opportunistic. Their ability to generate sacks, interceptions, and defensive scores makes them a high-upside DST option.

The Baltimore Ravens traditionally field a strong defense, and 2024 is no exception. The Ravens' defense is known for its physicality and ability to pressure the quarterback. They also excel at forcing turnovers and limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. The Ravens' consistent defensive performance makes them a reliable DST option.

The New York Jets have assembled a talented defense that is poised to make a significant impact in fantasy football. The Jets' defensive line is disruptive, and their secondary is filled with playmakers. Their ability to generate sacks, turnovers, and limit scoring makes them a DST on the rise. Premier League Standings: Latest Scores & Updates

Top Kicker (K) Rankings

The kicker position is often an afterthought in fantasy football, but consistent scoring from your kicker can make a difference in close matchups. Factors to consider when evaluating kickers include accuracy, field goal range, and the overall strength of their team's offense. A kicker on a high-scoring offense will have more opportunities for field goal attempts. In 2024, several kickers stand out as top fantasy options.

Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens is widely regarded as the best kicker in the NFL and a top fantasy option. Tucker's accuracy and leg strength are unmatched, and he consistently makes long field goals. The Ravens' potent offense provides Tucker with ample opportunities to score fantasy points. Tucker's reliability and consistency make him a top-tier fantasy kicker.

Tyler Bass of the Buffalo Bills has emerged as one of the top kickers in fantasy football due to his strong leg and the Bills' high-scoring offense. Bass consistently makes long field goals and has a high success rate on extra points. The Bills' offensive firepower provides Bass with numerous scoring opportunities, making him a valuable fantasy asset. October In Boston: Weather, Foliage, And What To Expect

Harrison Butker of the Kansas City Chiefs is a reliable kicker on one of the league's most explosive offenses. Butker has a strong leg and is accurate from long range. The Chiefs' ability to move the ball downfield provides Butker with plenty of scoring opportunities. Butker's consistency and the Chiefs' offensive prowess make him a top fantasy kicker.

Jake Moody, kicking for the San Francisco 49ers, is making waves in fantasy football discussions. His precision in field goals, paired with the 49ers’ robust offensive scheme, positions him as a dependable option for fantasy squads. Moody offers a consistent scoring potential, making him a strategic addition for those looking to solidify their kicking game.

Younghoe Koo of the Atlanta Falcons has consistently ranked among the top fantasy kickers due to his strong leg and accuracy. Koo has a proven track record of making long field goals and is a valuable asset in fantasy leagues. The Falcons' offense provides Koo with scoring opportunities, making him a reliable fantasy option.

FAQ About Fantasy Football Rankings

What factors are most important when determining fantasy football rankings?

Several factors weigh into determining fantasy football rankings, including a player's past performance, their current role within their team's offense, the strength of their team's offense overall, their injury history, and the perceived difficulty of their upcoming schedule. Experts also consider a player's consistency and potential for high-scoring games.

How often should I check fantasy football rankings during the season?

It's a good idea to check fantasy football rankings regularly throughout the season, especially before your weekly waiver wire and lineup decisions. Rankings can fluctuate due to injuries, changes in player performance, and shifts in team dynamics. Staying informed will help you make the best choices for your team.

Can fantasy football rankings help me with my draft strategy?

Absolutely! Fantasy football rankings are a valuable tool for developing your draft strategy. They provide a general guide to player values and can help you identify potential sleepers and avoid overpaying for players. However, it's essential to use rankings as a starting point and adjust your strategy based on your league's specific rules and your personal preferences.

What is the best approach to using fantasy football rankings effectively?

The most effective approach involves using rankings as one piece of a larger puzzle. Combine rankings with your own research, analysis, and understanding of your league's dynamics. Pay attention to player news and injuries, and be willing to deviate from rankings if your gut tells you to do so. Be sure to tailor rankings to your specific league format, such as PPR or standard scoring.

How do experts create reliable fantasy football player rankings?

Fantasy football experts use a combination of statistical analysis, film study, and insider information to create their rankings. They analyze player performance data, evaluate game film to assess player skills and tendencies, and consider factors like coaching changes and team strategy. Many experts also have sources within the league that provide valuable insights.

Why do fantasy football player rankings differ across various websites?

Differences in fantasy football player rankings across websites often stem from varying methodologies and perspectives among the experts. Some experts may prioritize certain statistics or factors over others. Additionally, personal biases and differing risk tolerances can influence individual rankings. It's wise to consult a variety of sources to get a well-rounded view.

What scoring system most influences fantasy football rankings?

The scoring system significantly impacts fantasy football rankings. PPR (points per reception) formats elevate the value of pass-catching running backs and wide receivers, while standard scoring places greater emphasis on rushing yards and touchdowns. Understanding your league's scoring system is crucial for tailoring your rankings and draft strategy.

How important is bye week planning in fantasy football rankings?

Bye week planning is an essential element of fantasy football strategy, and it indirectly influences rankings. While rankings primarily focus on player value and potential, considering bye weeks helps you avoid having too many players out in the same week. Savvy fantasy managers factor in bye weeks when making draft and trade decisions to ensure lineup flexibility.

Where can I find the most up-to-date fantasy football rankings?

You can find up-to-date fantasy football rankings on various reputable sports websites and fantasy football platforms. ESPN, CBS Sports, Yahoo Sports, and NFL.com are excellent sources for rankings and analysis. Many independent fantasy football websites and experts also provide valuable ranking resources. Always cross-reference multiple sources to get a comprehensive view.

https://www.espn.com/fantasy/football/rankings https://www.nfl.com/fantasy/ https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/rankings/

Photo of Robert M. Wachter

Robert M. Wachter

Professor, Medicine Chair, Department of Medicine ·

Robert M. Bob Wachter is an academic physician and author. He is on the faculty of University of California, San Francisco, where he is chairman of the Department of Medicine, the Lynne and Marc Benioff Endowed Chair in Hospital Medicine, and the Holly Smith Distinguished Professor in Science and Medicine