In fantasy football, securing a top-tier quarterback can be the cornerstone of a championship-winning team. As we gear up for the 2024 season, identifying the best fantasy QB options is crucial for success. This comprehensive guide delves into the top quarterback rankings, analyzing their potential based on factors like passing ability, rushing upside, offensive support, and matchup strength, helping you make informed decisions for your fantasy drafts.
Top 10 Fantasy Quarterbacks for 2024
Ranking quarterbacks in fantasy football requires a careful evaluation of several key factors. A quarterback's passing ability, including accuracy, arm strength, and decision-making, is paramount. Mobility and rushing ability have become increasingly valuable, offering additional fantasy points through rushing yards and touchdowns. The quality of the offensive supporting cast, including wide receivers, running backs, and the offensive line, significantly impacts a quarterback's performance. A favorable offensive scheme and play-calling can maximize a quarterback's opportunities. Finally, the strength of schedule, particularly matchups against favorable defenses, can influence a quarterback's weekly output. Considering all these elements provides a well-rounded perspective for ranking fantasy quarterbacks.
Here's a breakdown of the top 10 fantasy quarterbacks for the 2024 season, considering their projected performance and fantasy potential:
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Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes remains the gold standard in fantasy football. His exceptional arm talent, improvisational skills, and the Chiefs' explosive offense make him a consistent top performer. Even with some changes in the receiving corps, Mahomes' ability to create plays and his high passing volume ensure he'll be a top fantasy producer. His connection with Travis Kelce and the emergence of new receiving threats keep his ceiling incredibly high. Mahomes' consistency and high floor make him the safest bet at the quarterback position. His ability to avoid sacks and extend plays adds to his fantasy value, making him a weekly threat for a high score.
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Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: Josh Allen's dual-threat capabilities make him a fantasy football juggernaut. His strong arm and willingness to run the ball provide a high floor and ceiling. Allen's connection with Stefon Diggs and the Bills' aggressive offensive scheme ensure plenty of scoring opportunities. His rushing ability, in particular, sets him apart, as he consistently racks up rushing yards and touchdowns. Allen's combination of passing and rushing prowess makes him a consistent top-three fantasy quarterback. The Bills' commitment to Allen as the focal point of their offense further solidifies his fantasy value.
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Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles: Jalen Hurts' development as a passer, combined with his elite rushing ability, makes him a top-tier fantasy quarterback. The Eagles' strong offensive line and talented receiving corps, featuring A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, provide Hurts with the weapons he needs to succeed. His rushing upside is a significant advantage, as he often scores rushing touchdowns in addition to his passing production. Hurts' ability to make plays with his legs makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a valuable asset for fantasy managers. The Eagles' offensive scheme is tailored to Hurts' strengths, maximizing his fantasy output. — John Legend's Height: Unveiling The Star's True Stature
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Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson's unique rushing ability makes him a fantasy football cheat code. When healthy, Jackson's legs add a significant dimension to his fantasy scoring, providing a high floor each week. The Ravens have bolstered their receiving corps, which should enhance Jackson's passing production. His connection with Mark Andrews and the addition of new receiving threats give Jackson the potential for a big season. Jackson's ability to break off long runs and score touchdowns makes him a threat to outscore any quarterback on any given week. The Ravens' commitment to a run-heavy offense further elevates Jackson's fantasy value.
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Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals: Joe Burrow's accuracy and command of the Bengals' offense make him a top-five fantasy quarterback. Burrow's rapport with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins provides him with two elite receiving targets. The Bengals' pass-heavy approach and Burrow's ability to deliver the ball accurately make him a high-volume passer. His recovery from injury and continued development make him an exciting fantasy prospect. Burrow's poise and decision-making under pressure make him a reliable fantasy option. The Bengals' offensive line improvements should provide Burrow with more time to throw, further enhancing his fantasy potential.
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Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers: Justin Herbert's strong arm and aggressive style make him a fantasy football star. The Chargers' offense is geared towards passing, providing Herbert with ample opportunities to rack up yards and touchdowns. His connection with Keenan Allen and the emergence of other receiving options make him a dangerous fantasy quarterback. Herbert's ability to make big plays downfield gives him a high ceiling each week. The Chargers' new coaching staff may bring changes to the offensive scheme, which could further benefit Herbert's fantasy production. His combination of arm talent and opportunity makes him a top-tier fantasy quarterback.
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Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys: Dak Prescott's consistency and the Cowboys' offensive firepower make him a reliable fantasy option. Prescott's connection with CeeDee Lamb and the Cowboys' strong running game create a balanced attack. His ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground adds to his fantasy value. Prescott's leadership and decision-making make him a steady performer. The Cowboys' offensive line is a key factor in Prescott's success, providing him with the protection he needs to operate effectively. Prescott's ability to avoid turnovers and make smart throws makes him a consistent fantasy producer.
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Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence is poised for a breakout season in 2024. Lawrence's arm talent and the Jaguars' improved offense make him an exciting fantasy prospect. His connection with Christian Kirk and the addition of Calvin Ridley give him a talented receiving corps. Lawrence's development under Doug Pederson has been promising, and he is expected to take another step forward. His ability to make accurate throws and his poise in the pocket make him a valuable fantasy asset. The Jaguars' commitment to building around Lawrence makes him a quarterback to watch in fantasy football.
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Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson's talent is undeniable, and if he returns to his pre-suspension form, he could be a fantasy steal. The Browns' improved supporting cast, including Amari Cooper and Nick Chubb, provides Watson with the weapons he needs to succeed. His dual-threat ability gives him a high ceiling each week. Watson's performance will be closely monitored, as he looks to regain his status as an elite fantasy quarterback. The Browns' investment in Watson indicates their belief in his ability to lead the offense. His potential to be a top-five fantasy quarterback makes him a compelling option.
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Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons: Kirk Cousins, now with the Atlanta Falcons, lands in an ideal situation for fantasy production. Cousins has consistently been a reliable fantasy quarterback throughout his career, and the Falcons' offensive setup should allow him to continue that trend. With talented pass-catchers like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson at his disposal, Cousins has a plethora of weapons to target. The Falcons' offensive scheme, under head coach Raheem Morris and offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, is expected to be pass-heavy, providing Cousins with ample opportunities to rack up yardage and touchdowns. Cousins' accuracy and experience make him a steady fantasy option, and his new environment in Atlanta sets him up for a potentially strong season. While not possessing the rushing upside of some other quarterbacks on this list, Cousins' passing volume and the quality of his targets give him a high floor and a solid ceiling in fantasy leagues.
Factors Influencing QB Rankings
Several key factors influence the fantasy football quarterback rankings. Passing ability, including accuracy, arm strength, and decision-making, is paramount. The modern NFL game emphasizes passing, making quarterbacks the focal point of many offenses. Quarterbacks who can consistently deliver accurate throws and make smart decisions are more likely to generate fantasy points. Additionally, a quarterback's ability to read defenses and make adjustments at the line of scrimmage is crucial for success. The ability to throw the ball deep and connect on big plays is another significant factor, as these plays often result in touchdowns and significant yardage. Passing touchdowns are a primary source of fantasy points for quarterbacks, so those who excel in this area tend to be highly valued.
Rushing ability has become an increasingly valuable asset for fantasy quarterbacks. Mobile quarterbacks who can pick up yards and score touchdowns with their legs provide an added dimension to their fantasy output. This dual-threat capability raises both the floor and ceiling of a quarterback's fantasy performance. Quarterbacks who frequently run the ball have more opportunities to score, and their rushing yards contribute directly to their fantasy totals. The emergence of quarterbacks who are effective runners has changed the landscape of fantasy football, making mobility a key attribute in player evaluation. Rushing touchdowns are particularly valuable, as they are worth six points in most fantasy leagues.
The quality of the offensive supporting cast significantly impacts a quarterback's performance. Talented wide receivers, reliable running backs, and a strong offensive line are essential for a quarterback to thrive. Wide receivers who can create separation and make contested catches provide quarterbacks with reliable targets. A strong running game can take pressure off the quarterback and create favorable passing situations. A solid offensive line provides the quarterback with the time needed to make throws, reducing sacks and improving overall efficiency. The synergy between the quarterback and his supporting cast is crucial for a successful offense and, consequently, for fantasy production. Quarterbacks with a strong supporting cast are more likely to put up consistent numbers and reach their full fantasy potential.
Offensive scheme and play-calling play a critical role in maximizing a quarterback's fantasy potential. Quarterbacks in pass-heavy offenses or those with creative play-callers tend to have more opportunities to score fantasy points. A well-designed offensive scheme can create favorable matchups and exploit defensive weaknesses. Play-callers who understand how to utilize their quarterback's strengths can significantly enhance his fantasy output. The offensive philosophy of a team, whether it leans towards a run-first or pass-first approach, directly impacts the quarterback's workload and fantasy prospects. Quarterbacks in offenses that prioritize passing are typically more valuable in fantasy football due to the higher volume of passing attempts and touchdown opportunities.
Strength of schedule, particularly matchups against favorable defenses, can influence a quarterback's weekly fantasy output. Some defenses are more susceptible to the pass, while others excel at stopping the run. Quarterbacks facing weaker pass defenses or teams that struggle to generate pressure are more likely to have big fantasy performances. Analyzing the schedule and identifying favorable matchups can help fantasy managers make informed decisions about their starting lineups. While strength of schedule is not a fixed factor, it is an important consideration when evaluating a quarterback's potential on a week-to-week basis. Matchups against teams with weak secondaries or those that allow a high number of passing yards are particularly advantageous for fantasy quarterbacks. — Big Island Hawaii Weather: Your Complete Guide
Quarterback Tiers for Fantasy Football
Tier-based rankings are a valuable tool for fantasy football drafts. By grouping quarterbacks into tiers, you can assess the drop-off in talent and plan your draft strategy accordingly. Each tier represents a group of quarterbacks with similar projected fantasy production. Identifying these tiers helps you understand when it's time to grab a quarterback and how to prioritize your selections. Tier-based rankings also allow you to react more effectively to the flow of the draft and make informed decisions based on positional value.
Tier 1: Elite Dual-Threat QBs
This tier consists of quarterbacks who possess both exceptional passing skills and significant rushing ability. These players have the highest ceilings and are capable of delivering consistent top-tier fantasy performances. Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts headline this tier. These quarterbacks offer a combination of high passing volume, rushing yards, and touchdowns, making them highly sought after in fantasy drafts. Securing one of these quarterbacks gives you a significant advantage at the position.
Tier 2: High-Upside Passers
This tier features quarterbacks with excellent passing skills and the potential for high touchdown production. These quarterbacks may not have the same rushing upside as Tier 1 players, but they can still deliver elite fantasy numbers through the air. Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, and Lamar Jackson typically fall into this tier. These quarterbacks are the focal points of their offenses and have the potential to throw for a large number of yards and touchdowns. Drafting a quarterback from this tier can provide a solid foundation for your fantasy team.
Tier 3: Solid Starters with Rushing Potential
This tier includes quarterbacks who are reliable starters with rushing ability, providing a combination of passing and rushing production. These quarterbacks offer a good balance of floor and ceiling, making them valuable fantasy assets. Dak Prescott and Trevor Lawrence are often included in this tier. These quarterbacks have the potential to deliver consistent fantasy scores and can be valuable additions to your roster. Drafting a quarterback from this tier can give you a competitive advantage at the position.
Tier 4: High-Ceiling Sleepers
This tier features quarterbacks who have the potential to outperform their draft position. These quarterbacks may have some risk associated with them, but they also offer significant upside. Deshaun Watson and Kirk Cousins are examples of quarterbacks who might fit into this tier, depending on how the season unfolds. These quarterbacks can be valuable late-round picks or waiver wire additions if they reach their full potential. Taking a chance on a quarterback from this tier can pay off big if they emerge as a top performer.
Tier 5: Late-Round Options and Streamers
This tier consists of quarterbacks who are best suited as late-round picks or streaming options based on matchups. These quarterbacks may not be every-week starters, but they can provide value in certain situations. Identifying quarterbacks in this tier requires careful evaluation of matchups and potential for short-term production. Streaming quarterbacks can be a viable strategy in fantasy football, especially in deeper leagues or leagues with less emphasis on the quarterback position.
Strategies for Drafting a Quarterback
Drafting a quarterback requires a strategic approach. The optimal timing for drafting a quarterback depends on your overall draft strategy and the scoring settings of your league. In superflex leagues, where you can start two quarterbacks, it's often advantageous to draft a quarterback early. In single-QB leagues, you can afford to wait a bit longer, but it's still essential to secure a reliable starter. The scarcity of top-tier quarterbacks makes it crucial to have a plan in place.
Early-round quarterback strategy involves selecting an elite quarterback in the first few rounds. This approach provides you with a significant advantage at the position, as you secure a player with a high floor and ceiling. However, it also means you're passing on other valuable positions early in the draft. This strategy is best suited for leagues that heavily value quarterback performance or superflex leagues where quarterback scarcity is a major factor. An early-round quarterback can be the cornerstone of your team, providing consistent production and a weekly advantage.
Mid-round quarterback strategy involves waiting until the middle rounds to draft a quarterback. This approach allows you to address other positions early in the draft while still securing a quality quarterback. The key is to identify quarterbacks who offer good value in the middle rounds and avoid reaching for a quarterback based on name recognition alone. This strategy is suitable for leagues that balance quarterback scoring with other positions. A mid-round quarterback can still be a valuable asset, especially if they have a favorable supporting cast and offensive scheme.
Late-round quarterback strategy involves waiting until the later rounds to draft a quarterback. This approach allows you to build depth at other positions before addressing the quarterback spot. The key to this strategy is identifying quarterbacks with sleeper potential or those who offer favorable matchups on a week-to-week basis. Streaming quarterbacks based on matchups can be a viable strategy in this approach. A late-round quarterback can provide surprising value if they exceed expectations or if you are adept at playing matchups.
The streaming quarterback strategy involves selecting a quarterback each week based on the matchup. This strategy requires careful analysis of weekly matchups and defensive vulnerabilities. Streaming quarterbacks can be effective in leagues with shallower rosters or those that don't heavily value the quarterback position. The success of this strategy depends on your ability to identify quarterbacks with favorable matchups and capitalize on short-term opportunities. Streaming quarterbacks can provide consistent production if executed effectively.
QB Sleepers and Value Picks
Identifying quarterback sleepers and value picks can give you a significant edge in your fantasy draft. Sleepers are players who are being undervalued in drafts but have the potential to outperform their draft position. Value picks are players who are being drafted at a reasonable spot relative to their projected production. These players can provide excellent returns on investment and help you build a competitive roster. Identifying these players requires a deep understanding of player potential, offensive schemes, and team dynamics. — Who Won The Intense "24 In 24" Streaming Challenge?
Quarterbacks with breakout potential are those who have the talent and opportunity to take a significant leap forward in their performance. These quarterbacks may be entering their second or third season, changing teams, or benefiting from a new offensive scheme. Identifying these players requires careful evaluation of their skill set, supporting cast, and coaching staff. A quarterback with breakout potential can be a valuable asset to your fantasy team, providing high-end production at a lower cost.
Late-round quarterback targets are players who can be drafted in the later rounds and still provide solid fantasy production. These quarterbacks may not be elite options, but they can serve as reliable starters or valuable streaming options. Identifying these players requires a keen eye for talent and an understanding of how matchups can influence performance. A late-round quarterback target can provide significant value if they exceed expectations or if you are adept at playing matchups.
Quarterbacks in new systems can often provide value, as a change of scenery or coaching staff can unlock their potential. A new system may better suit their skill set or provide them with more opportunities to produce. Identifying these players requires an understanding of how different systems can impact quarterback performance. A quarterback in a new system can be a valuable addition to your fantasy team if the fit is right.
Injury-prone quarterbacks can be risky, but they can also provide significant upside if they stay healthy. These quarterbacks often fall in drafts due to injury concerns, but if they can avoid injury, they have the potential to deliver high-end fantasy numbers. Weighing the risk and reward of drafting an injury-prone quarterback is crucial. A healthy injury-prone quarterback can be a league-winning asset.
FAQ About Fantasy Football Quarterbacks
What key factors should I consider when ranking fantasy football quarterbacks?
When ranking fantasy football quarterbacks, consider passing ability (accuracy, arm strength), rushing ability (yards, touchdowns), offensive supporting cast (receivers, running backs, offensive line), offensive scheme/play-calling, and strength of schedule. A quarterback's overall talent and the environment they play in are crucial for fantasy success.
How important is rushing ability for a fantasy quarterback?
Rushing ability has become increasingly important for fantasy quarterbacks. Mobile quarterbacks who can gain yards and score touchdowns with their legs provide a higher floor and ceiling. The dual-threat nature makes them valuable fantasy assets, as they contribute in multiple ways.
What is the best strategy for drafting a quarterback in fantasy football?
The best quarterback drafting strategy depends on your league's scoring settings and your overall draft strategy. Options include drafting an elite quarterback early, waiting until the mid-rounds, or employing a late-round or streaming approach. Consider your league's specific dynamics.
Should I draft a quarterback early in a superflex league?
Yes, in superflex leagues (where you can start two quarterbacks), it's often advantageous to draft a quarterback early due to the increased positional value. Quarterback scarcity makes securing top-tier options crucial for success in superflex formats.
How can I identify quarterback sleepers in fantasy football?
To identify quarterback sleepers, look for players with breakout potential, late-round value, or those in new systems that might better suit their skills. Evaluate their talent, supporting cast, and the potential for improved performance in the upcoming season.
What is the streaming quarterback strategy, and when should I use it?
The streaming quarterback strategy involves selecting a quarterback each week based on the matchup. This approach is viable in leagues with shallower rosters or those that don't heavily value the quarterback position. It requires careful analysis of weekly matchups and defensive vulnerabilities.
How do quarterback tiers help in fantasy football drafts?
Quarterback tiers group players with similar projected fantasy production, helping you assess talent drop-offs and plan your draft strategy. Tiers allow you to prioritize selections and react to the flow of the draft effectively, ensuring you secure a valuable quarterback.
Which quarterbacks have the highest potential to be fantasy football league winners in 2024?
Quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts have the highest potential to be league winners in 2024 due to their elite dual-threat abilities and consistent high-end production. Their combination of passing and rushing makes them top-tier options.
By carefully evaluating these factors and utilizing strategic drafting techniques, you can secure a top fantasy quarterback who can lead your team to victory in 2024. Remember to stay informed about player news, injuries, and evolving team dynamics throughout the season to make the most informed decisions for your fantasy roster.
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