2024 Fantasy Football Rankings: Top Players & Expert Tiers

With the 2024 NFL season fast approaching, fantasy football enthusiasts are eagerly preparing for their drafts. These comprehensive fantasy football rankings offer a detailed guide to help you make informed decisions and build a winning team. Updated regularly, these rankings consider player performance, injuries, and off-season developments to provide the most current insights. This guide will cover the top players across all positions, offering expert tiers and analysis to help you dominate your league this season.

Top Quarterbacks in Fantasy Football

Quarterbacks remain a crucial position in fantasy football, and identifying the top performers is essential for success. Several quarterbacks stand out as elite options for the 2024 season.

Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs, consistently ranks among the top quarterbacks due to his exceptional talent and the Chiefs' potent offense. Mahomes' ability to make plays both with his arm and legs makes him a dual-threat for fantasy managers. His track record of high-scoring seasons solidifies his place as a premium pick in any league. The consistency in his performance and the high-octane nature of the Chiefs' offense ensure he remains a top-tier fantasy quarterback. Mahomes' arm talent, mobility, and play-calling acumen make him a perennial favorite for fantasy success.

Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills, is another top-tier quarterback known for his rushing ability and strong arm. Allen’s dual-threat capability provides a high floor for fantasy points, making him a reliable option week after week. His connection with his receivers and his willingness to run the ball make him a dynamic fantasy asset. Allen's blend of passing and rushing prowess gives him an exceptionally high ceiling each week. The Bills' offense is built around Allen's strengths, making him a focal point for fantasy production.

Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles, has emerged as one of the league’s premier dual-threat quarterbacks. Hurts' growth as a passer, combined with his rushing touchdowns, makes him a fantasy football star. His ability to contribute in multiple ways gives him a significant advantage in fantasy leagues. Hurts’ rushing ability, coupled with his improved passing accuracy, makes him a consistent top performer. The Eagles’ offensive scheme, tailored to his strengths, further enhances his fantasy value.

Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals, is known for his accuracy and ability to make big plays. Burrow's connection with his talented receiving corps makes him a top fantasy quarterback. His passing volume and the Bengals' offensive firepower contribute to his high fantasy ceiling. Burrow’s precision passing and strong rapport with his receivers, including Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, make him a reliable fantasy option. The Bengals' offensive system is designed to maximize Burrow's strengths, ensuring consistent fantasy production.

Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens, a former MVP, possesses incredible rushing ability, making him a unique fantasy asset. Jackson’s legs provide a high floor, and his improved passing makes him even more valuable. His dual-threat capabilities make him one of the most exciting players in fantasy football. Jackson's rushing prowess and improved passing skills make him a dynamic fantasy quarterback. The Ravens' offensive scheme, tailored to his strengths, allows him to excel both as a passer and a runner.

These quarterbacks offer a blend of passing and rushing ability, making them highly valuable in fantasy football. When drafting, consider these top-tier quarterbacks early to secure a significant advantage at the position.

Top Running Backs in Fantasy Football

Running backs are the backbone of many fantasy teams, and identifying the elite options is crucial for a successful season. Here’s a breakdown of the top running backs for the 2024 fantasy football season.

Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers, remains a top fantasy running back due to his dual-threat ability as both a runner and receiver. McCaffrey’s versatility and the 49ers' offensive scheme make him a consistent producer in PPR (Points Per Reception) formats. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game makes him a fantasy football superstar. McCaffrey’s role in the 49ers’ offense ensures he gets a high volume of touches, making him a top pick in any fantasy draft. The 49ers' commitment to utilizing McCaffrey in multiple facets of their offense solidifies his fantasy value.

Bijan Robinson, Atlanta Falcons, is an exciting young talent with the potential to be a fantasy football star. Robinson’s combination of size, speed, and agility makes him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. His expected high volume of carries and receptions makes him a valuable asset in all fantasy formats. Robinson’s diverse skillset and the Falcons' commitment to their running game position him as a top fantasy running back. His ability to break tackles and make plays in the passing game enhances his fantasy potential.

Breece Hall, New York Jets, has demonstrated his talent and ability to perform at a high level, making him a key fantasy asset. Hall’s explosiveness and versatility make him a valuable fantasy option, especially in PPR leagues. His role in the Jets’ offense and his ability to make plays in both the running and passing game make him a top pick. Hall’s return to full health and his role in the Jets' offense make him a focal point for fantasy production. His explosiveness and ability to contribute as a receiver solidify his place among the top running backs.

Jonathan Taylor, Indianapolis Colts, when healthy, is one of the most productive running backs in the NFL. Taylor's power and speed make him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. His proven track record and potential for a high workload make him a valuable fantasy asset. Taylor’s combination of power and speed, coupled with his role in the Colts’ offense, makes him a top-tier fantasy running back. His ability to handle a significant workload and produce consistent results enhances his fantasy value.

Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles, has consistently demonstrated his explosive playmaking ability, positioning him as a top fantasy option. Barkley's talent and dual-threat capabilities make him a valuable fantasy asset, especially in PPR leagues. His potential for high volume and his ability to make plays in the passing game make him a top pick. Barkley’s explosiveness and versatility, combined with his role in the Eagles’ offense, make him a key fantasy contributor. His ability to break tackles and catch passes out of the backfield enhances his fantasy value.

These running backs offer a combination of talent, opportunity, and proven production, making them highly valuable in fantasy football. Prioritize these players in your drafts to build a strong foundation for your team.

Top Wide Receivers in Fantasy Football

Wide receivers are essential for a successful fantasy football team, and identifying the top performers can give you a significant edge. Here are some of the top wide receivers to target in your 2024 fantasy drafts.

Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings, is widely regarded as the top wide receiver in the NFL. Jefferson’s exceptional route-running and hands make him a target machine. His ability to consistently produce high receiving yardage and touchdowns makes him the top wide receiver in fantasy football. Jefferson's exceptional skills and the Vikings' offensive scheme make him a consistent producer. His rapport with his quarterback and his ability to make contested catches solidify his status as a top fantasy receiver.

Ja'Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals, has quickly established himself as one of the league’s elite wide receivers. Chase's chemistry with Joe Burrow and his ability to make big plays make him a fantasy football star. His explosive playmaking ability and high target share make him a top-tier fantasy receiver. Chase’s combination of speed, route-running, and strong hands makes him a consistent threat in the Bengals’ offense. His ability to generate yards after the catch further enhances his fantasy value.

CeeDee Lamb, Dallas Cowboys, has become the focal point of the Cowboys’ passing game. Lamb's reliable hands and ability to get open make him a high-volume target. His consistency and high target share make him a top fantasy receiver. Lamb’s role as the primary receiver in the Cowboys' offense and his ability to make tough catches make him a valuable fantasy asset. His consistent performance and high target volume ensure his fantasy relevance.

Tyreek Hill, Miami Dolphins, is known for his blazing speed and ability to stretch the field. Hill’s big-play ability makes him a high-upside fantasy option. His speed and connection with Tua Tagovailoa make him a consistent threat for long touchdowns. Hill’s explosive speed and route-running ability make him a constant threat in the Dolphins’ offense. His ability to stretch the field and generate big plays enhances his fantasy value.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Detroit Lions, has emerged as a reliable target in the Lions’ offense. St. Brown’s consistent performance and high target share make him a valuable fantasy receiver, especially in PPR formats. His ability to get open and catch passes in traffic makes him a consistent producer. St. Brown’s reliability and high target volume in the Lions’ offense make him a valuable fantasy asset. His consistent performance and ability to make tough catches solidify his fantasy value.

These wide receivers offer a blend of talent, opportunity, and proven production, making them highly valuable in fantasy football. Drafting these players can provide a significant boost to your team’s receiving corps.

Top Tight Ends in Fantasy Football

The tight end position can be a tricky one in fantasy football, but landing a top performer can give you a significant advantage. Here are some of the top tight ends to consider for your 2024 fantasy drafts.

Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs, has been the gold standard at the tight end position for years. Kelce’s consistent performance and connection with Patrick Mahomes make him the top tight end in fantasy football. His ability to consistently produce high receiving yardage and touchdowns makes him a premium fantasy asset. Kelce's exceptional route-running and strong hands, combined with his rapport with Mahomes, make him a consistent top performer. His ability to consistently produce at a high level solidifies his place as the premier fantasy tight end.

George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers, is a dynamic player known for his blocking and receiving skills. Kittle's versatility and ability to make plays downfield make him a valuable fantasy tight end. His ability to contribute as both a blocker and a receiver makes him a unique fantasy asset. Kittle’s physicality and ability to make contested catches, combined with his role in the 49ers' offense, make him a valuable fantasy option. His dual-threat ability enhances his fantasy value.

Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens, is a reliable target for Lamar Jackson. Andrews’ consistent performance and ability to make plays in the red zone make him a top fantasy tight end. His chemistry with Jackson and his ability to make tough catches make him a valuable asset. Andrews’ reliability and ability to score touchdowns, combined with his connection with Jackson, make him a top-tier fantasy tight end. His consistent performance ensures his fantasy relevance.

Sam LaPorta, Detroit Lions, had a breakout rookie season and is poised to continue his success. LaPorta’s receiving skills and role in the Lions’ offense make him a promising fantasy tight end. His ability to get open and make catches in traffic makes him a valuable asset. LaPorta’s emergence as a top receiving threat in the Lions’ offense makes him a valuable fantasy option. His consistent performance and ability to score touchdowns enhance his fantasy value. If Six Was Nine: Jimi Hendrix's Psychedelic Rock Anthem

Evan Engram, Jacksonville Jaguars, has emerged as a reliable target in the Jaguars’ offense. Engram's receiving skills and role in the passing game make him a valuable fantasy tight end, especially in PPR formats. His ability to get open and make catches in traffic makes him a consistent producer. Engram’s role as a key receiving target in the Jaguars’ offense makes him a valuable fantasy option. His consistent performance ensures his fantasy relevance.

These tight ends offer a blend of talent, opportunity, and proven production, making them valuable assets in fantasy football. Securing one of these players can give you a significant advantage at a position where consistency can be hard to find.

Fantasy Football Rankings: Expert Tiers

To further assist with your draft preparation, here’s a breakdown of expert tiers for each position. Tiers help you group players of similar value, making it easier to make decisions during your draft. These tiers are based on a combination of factors, including projected performance, historical data, and positional scarcity.

Quarterback Tiers

  • Tier 1: Elite
    • Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts
  • Tier 2: High-Upside
    • Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, Justin Herbert
  • Tier 3: Solid Starters
    • Dak Prescott, Anthony Richardson, C.J. Stroud
  • Tier 4: Mid-Range Options
    • Tua Tagovailoa, Kirk Cousins, Jordan Love

Running Back Tiers

  • Tier 1: Elite
    • Christian McCaffrey
  • Tier 2: High-End RB1s
    • Bijan Robinson, Breece Hall, Jonathan Taylor
  • Tier 3: Solid RB1s
    • Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, Travis Etienne
  • Tier 4: RB2s with Upside
    • Jahmyr Gibbs, Tony Pollard, Josh Jacobs

Wide Receiver Tiers

  • Tier 1: Elite
    • Justin Jefferson
  • Tier 2: High-End WR1s
    • Ja'Marr Chase, CeeDee Lamb, Tyreek Hill
  • Tier 3: Solid WR1s
    • Amon-Ra St. Brown, A.J. Brown, Garrett Wilson
  • Tier 4: WR2s with Upside
    • Davante Adams, Stefon Diggs, Chris Olave

Tight End Tiers

  • Tier 1: Elite
    • Travis Kelce
  • Tier 2: High-End TE1s
    • George Kittle, Mark Andrews
  • Tier 3: Solid TE1s
    • Sam LaPorta, Evan Engram, T.J. Hockenson
  • Tier 4: TE2s with Upside
    • Darren Waller, Dallas Goedert, David Njoku

Using these tiers can help you make informed decisions during your draft and ensure you’re getting the best value at each position.

Conclusion

Preparing for your fantasy football draft is crucial for a successful season. Using these 2024 fantasy football rankings and expert tiers, you can make informed decisions and build a competitive team. Remember to stay updated on player news and injuries as the season approaches to fine-tune your draft strategy. Good luck, and may your team dominate this season!

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Fantasy Football Rankings

What factors are most important when considering fantasy football rankings?

When assessing fantasy football rankings, several factors are crucial. Player performance in previous seasons offers a historical perspective, while current form and any recent injuries can significantly impact a player's potential. The strength of the team's offense, the player's role within that offense, and the likelihood of scoring opportunities are also essential considerations. Lastly, the stability of the player's situation, including coaching changes or team dynamics, can influence their ranking.

How often are fantasy football rankings typically updated during the season?

Fantasy football rankings are frequently updated throughout the season to reflect the ever-changing landscape of the NFL. Major sports websites and fantasy football platforms often update their rankings weekly, considering game performances, injuries, and roster changes. Some platforms even offer daily updates to account for breaking news or significant developments that could affect player values. Staying current with these updates is crucial for making informed decisions about your lineup and trades.

Why do fantasy football rankings vary between different websites and experts?

The variation in fantasy football rankings across different websites and experts is due to the subjective nature of player evaluation. Experts weigh different factors differently, such as past performance versus future potential, and their risk tolerance levels can vary. Additionally, different scoring systems (PPR, standard, etc.) can influence how players are valued, leading to discrepancies in rankings. Considering multiple sources and understanding the rationale behind each ranking can help you form your own informed opinions.

How can I use fantasy football rankings to improve my draft strategy?

Fantasy football rankings are a valuable tool for developing a draft strategy. By understanding the relative value of players at each position, you can identify potential draft targets and avoid overpaying for players who are ranked lower by multiple experts. Tiers within rankings can help you group players of similar value, allowing you to make informed decisions when your top choices are off the board. Regularly updating your cheat sheet with the latest rankings can ensure you're prepared for any surprises during your draft. Super Bowl Countdown: Days Until Kickoff

What is the difference between PPR and standard fantasy football rankings?

The primary difference between PPR (Points Per Reception) and standard fantasy football rankings lies in the scoring system. PPR leagues award points for each reception, increasing the value of pass-catching players like wide receivers and receiving backs. In standard leagues, receptions are not awarded points, placing more emphasis on rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and receiving yards. Consequently, players who excel in receiving tend to rank higher in PPR formats compared to standard leagues.

Are there specific positions where fantasy football rankings are more crucial?

Fantasy football rankings are crucial across all positions, but some positions require more careful consideration due to scarcity and positional value. Running backs and wide receivers, being the primary scoring positions, often have the most variance in rankings and require thorough evaluation. Tight end is another critical position, as elite performers can provide a significant advantage. While quarterback is also important, the depth at the position allows for more flexibility in draft strategy.

How do injuries impact fantasy football rankings, and how should I adjust my strategy?

Injuries have a significant impact on fantasy football rankings, often leading to substantial drops in a player's value. When a key player sustains an injury, their ranking typically falls to reflect their expected time off the field and the risk of re-injury. As a fantasy manager, it's crucial to monitor injury reports and adjust your draft strategy accordingly. Identifying potential replacement players and late-round sleepers who could benefit from an injury to a starter can provide valuable depth to your roster.

How much weight should I give to fantasy football rankings when making trade decisions?

Fantasy football rankings can be a useful reference point when making trade decisions, but they should not be the sole factor. Rankings provide a general assessment of player value, but individual league dynamics, roster needs, and long-term potential also play a role. Consider the specific scoring system of your league, the strengths and weaknesses of your team, and the potential for a player to outperform or underperform their ranking. A balanced approach that combines rankings with your own judgment is key to successful trades. Hyde Park, Chicago Weather Guide

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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