What’s your favorite position in football? We think the WR might be the coolest position. Extreme talent to run, jump, and time catches from your QB is an art form of the NFL. Now presenting, Top 10 Wide Receiver Rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football!

• Rankings considered between PPR and STD scoring
  
• Our rankings: Love them? Hate them? Let us know!
  
• As always these opinions reflect solely on the research from the Baseline Times staff
  
• Every week until the end of August you can expect to find us ranking other positions and full coverage of the NFL 2022 Fantasy Football season
  
• Consider that these WR ranked in our Top 10 are probably worthy enough of nothing short of drafting in the second round, no later.

Top 10 Wide Receiver Rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football

ADP 1 – Cooper Kupp – Los Angeles Rams

If the reason you are here for some “where do I take him in the draft” advice, I’d assume you know he’s the undisputed number one WR this season. Kupp remains in a prestigious position to be the number one target for Matthew Stafford. If you understood that Stafford doesn’t run much any way he’s doing nothing but sitting in the pocket tossing to Kupp.

Allen Robinson II joins the Rams this season as the only other WR to threaten Kupp’s target sharing. Gone is Robert Woods now in Tennessee. At the time of these rankings, Odell Beckham is still a free agent so all odds are Kupp remains the favorite guy yet again. Where do we take Kupp? I wouldn’t mind Kupp if Austin Ekeler, Jonathan Taylor, or Derrick Henry is off the board in a Standard scoring league. If you’re in a PPR league obviously Kupp now favors anywhere in the Top 5 overall.

ADP 2 – Justin Jefferson – Minnesota Vikings

Listen in on the trend here. A couple of things are now in place that tie into the ranking mentioned above. First, the not-so-obvious is that Kirk Cousins and Matthew Stafford are not very mobile. They also pace some pretty solid yardage. What does that mean? Are you sniffing what we’re sniffing? HAMMERING targets to Jefferson.

The real obvious is that Wes Phillips is now the Offensive Coordinator in Minnesota. Doesn’t ring a bell to the masses right? Well, he coached the Rams through last season’s monstrous season from Cooper Kupp. Don’t shy away from picking Jefferson in any league as the second-best WR behind Kupp. Cousins threw only 7 interceptions last season which is the second lowest next to Rodgers who threw 4 in 2021. The efficiency is there for Cousins to improve and hopefully direct more yardage/better routes for Jefferson.

ADP 3 – Ja’Marr Chase – Cincinnati Bengals

With a better offensive line in Cincinnati, the hope is Burrow has more time to throw all day to Mr. Chase. Sophomore slump? No way! His 2021 Rookie season brought in 81 receptions, 1,455 yards, and 13 Touchdowns. He’s already the QBs go-to and a big body that can create space always to catch at his young age. He’s just blowing by Eli Apple in training camp.

It wouldn’t be unrealistic to put the type of season together for the Chase again. His ceiling now is being able to hit the Cooper Kupp-like numbers. Chase finished 18th overall in PPR scoring last season so it’s fair to say his expectation to push your team over the rest of WR week-to-week will be in good hands with him as a must-start WR.

ADP 4 – Davante Adams – Las Vegas Raiders

There is too much going on with this one but one thing remains the same. Adams is coveted as one of the best, if not the best WR in the game right now. Why are we placing him this low on a fantasy ranking then? Who knows but the above choices are great and Adams can be just as great or even better. Things to consider though, are Josh McDaniels and Derek Carr are two new factors in Adams’ 2022 season.

We do know that Adams was a target hog in Green Bay but will Carr be able to elevate his game with talent like Adams? The feeling is that it will happen and McDaniels is someone who can coach football obviously. We’re leaning with the general opinion that it’s a no-brainer that Adams shouldn’t be ignored as a first-round pick this season. He’s one of the only WR that can finish in the top 5 of fantasy scoring overall in the WR position year after year.

ADP 5 – Stefon Diggs – Buffalo Bills

If there is one WR this season that arguably you can’t leave out of the top 5 it’s Diggs. A lot of us rank Josh Allen as the number one QB this season. Well, if you’re following the trail here throughout our rankings, the tea. Allen threw at least 38 passes last season. 9 of them at least went to Diggs who converted that to 16.4 PPR points per game.

What’s almost guaranteed here with Diggs is that he is easily a 1200-yard, 10-Touchdown WR this season which should rank him pretty damn high regardless of Standard or PPR scoring leagues. Diggs finished 8th overall among WR yards last season (1225 yards). Hence, his mid-range ranking is in the Top 10 chart here. The possibility to rise above the WRs ranked above is very positive. The Bills will have to figure out if Jamison Crowder, Isaiah McKenzie, or Gabriel Davis will be the next best target for Allen. This favors Diggs even more in 2022.

ADP 6 – Deebo Samuel – San Fransisco 49ers

The contact has been signed and the fantasy ranking for Deebo stands. It’s clear as the day his talent is there and when used correctly it’s efficient for fantasy purposes. The BEST case scenario for Samuel was to stay with the 49ers if you ask us. Kyle Shanahan is proven of leading some offense places (but not finishing the job in the playoffs). But please don’t let foolish things like that distract you from what’s important. Deebo will thrive with Shanahan’s lead and supposedly the contract dispute might have earned Samuel more touches.

What’s even more exciting is that the 49ers have put their full trust in second-year QB Trey Lance. A more mobile athletic QB that also will have a learning curve this season as well. Let’s get one thing straight unless Lance has the timing, arm, habits, and playbook down at a high level, we might get more of Deebo from the ground vs the air again. That isn’t a bad thing since normally Deebo can give you both a stout running back one game or some big games from the air in PPR-friendly leagues.

ADP 7 – Keenan Allen – Los Angeles Chargers

We know, we get it, usually, he’s trending for the 10th spot in the 2022 rankings. Keenan Allen is no WR just to pass up to risk for let’s say a DK Metcalf, Jaylen Waddle, Tee Higgins, or DJ Moore. What’s PROMISED is that he’s the number one guy in an offense that has arguably the 1.2 QB in fantasy, Justin Herbert.

Since 2017 it is promised that Allen can give you between 16-17 points per game in Fantasy Football. Mr. Consistency is his name to us. PPR fans get ready to draft him as the best WR in the second round. 2022 shouldn’t any different. Sure, you might favor Mike Williams a bit more this season and that’s fine. We’ll be here at the end of the season to tell you you’re wrong. If we’re wrong fine (and injuries can exclude us from being wrong). Here is another promising note, since 2015 Allen AT LEAST averages 10 yards a catch. PPR fans, that’s 2 points for every catch every week! Missing 3 games in the last 5 seasons also is key.

ADP 8 – CeeDee Lamb – Dallas Cowboys

This one cannot go any lower. We’ve done enough research to find out that in 2021 Dak Prescott really stuck to the pocket and passed. His 596 passing attempts in 2021 were a career-high that tied his 2019 season. We’re seeing less of Prescott running out of the pocket these days as his 2021 rushing attempts were below average for a QB with only 48 rushing attempts. You know what this means right?

The Cowboys traded Amari Cooper to the Browns and in return, look to give Lamb the green light as their young next best WR of the future. He was the most targeted WR in 2021 for Dallas but that came with the injury to Cooper who missed two games in 2021. Michael Gallup also was injured and played in 9 games for Dallas last season. This opens eyes for Dallas how talented Lamb can be for them. The second most targeted receiver last year was Dalton Schultz who is a TE for Dallas. That’s enough to consider Lamb as a solid WR second-round pick.

ADP 9 – Mike Evans – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

One of Tom Brady‘s WR has to be Top 10 RIGHT? Yep, let’s not ignore that team that threw the MOST passes in 2021. Tom Brady returns, and Mike Evans stands as the best option in Tampa. Chris Godwin did return to the field but his status to play the entire season depends. Do the Buccaneers ease in Godwin early in the season? Brady also has to connect with Russell Gage and Julio Jones who are new to the team this season. His old reliable will be Evans.

Evans has one of the most decorated careers on paper. He’s played 8 seasons and was able to bring in 1,000 receiving yards in each of them. With Brady as his QB, his Touchdown average over the last two years is 13.5 Touchdowns (13 in 2020 and 14 in 2021). Nothing should slow down in 2022 when a 45-year-old Tom Brady really wants to go out with a bang.

ADP 10 –Tyreek Hill – Miami Dolphins

We strive to be a little different here at Baseline Times but not too much different. Are we saying Hill isn’t worthy of AT LEAST a second-round pick in 2022? No, we are not but he’s ranked down here to curve some expectations. Yes, we’re on the train that Tua’s play early on in the season could be figuring out his new weapons. Do you sacrifice that for more sure guys ranked above?

Again, to our earlier point above in the bullet points, this list is compiled to ensure you understand this list is your best option to draft a WR in the second round of redrafts NO LATER! Hill gets the last spot because of the QB situation. However, he’s a machine when it comes to yards after the catch and pure NFL talent that should not be ignored just because his QB is Tua. Sure, Jaylen Waddle is a concern but the next best WR is Cedric Wilson Jr. The Dolphins will be targeting Hill as much as Mahomes did. Waddle is a nice distraction of talent for opposing defenses to pick their poison when defending against Miami’s WR core.

Right on the bubble

• Diontae Johnson
• Michael Pittman Jr.
• A.J. Brown
• Chris Godwin

Early Top 10 Running Back rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football

The early ranking madness continues. Here is your early Top 10 Running Back rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football!

Early Top 10 Quarterback Rankings for NFL 2022 Fantasy Football

Who is ready for some football? As we count down the days to the 2022 NFL season we bring you EARLY Top 10 Rankings for Quarterbacks in Fantasy Football when it comes to the 2022 NFL Fantasy Football season.

Early Top 10 Tight End Rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football

Does your league not care for the good ol’ TE position? Still consider drafting one if you can start a FLEX spot or two!

NFL launches NFL+ but is it worth the hype?

The quick read analysis is here. Getting straight to the point, can I FINALLY stream every out-of-market game in a packaged deal that makes sense?

Follow us:

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

More from Baseline Times

If you’re new to Fantasy Football welcome. You’ll learn quickly that this is the MOST important position that you may want to pay attention to for draft purposes. Alright on to the rankings but first let’s take a quick highlight of your RB needs. Here is your early Top 10 Running Back rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football!

• Rankings considered between PPR and STD scoring
  
• Jonathan Taylor took the crown for the MOST points scored by a Running Back in the 2021 season. Whether you played in a Standard, Half-Point, or Full-Point PPR league he’s still number one!
  
• The most touches? Najee Harris with 381 touches led the NFL’s Running Backs.
  
• Jonathan Taylor led all Running Backs with 18 Rushing Touchdowns in the 2021 season. Just food for thought.
  
• Our rankings: Love them? Hate them? Let us know!
  
• As always these opinions reflect solely on the research from the Baseline Times staff
  
• Every week until the end of August you can expect to find us ranking other positions and full coverage of the NFL 2022 Fantasy Football season

ADP 1 – Jonathan Taylor – Indianapolis Colts

We keep hearing about this guy at least five times before we started ranking right? You bet he’s pretty important. Here are some quick things to consider about Mr. Taylor. His Offensive Line did wonders to allow him to run 1,811 yards on 332 Rushing Attempts in the 2021 season. He’s trending up as one of the most prolific runners in the NFL.

He does have a new Quarterback he will line up behind this season. That being Matt Ryan however, does it really matter with Taylor slaying on the ground? NOPE! JT has shown as a Rookie he can handle the running load scoring about 250 points in 2020 depending on your scoring league’s scoring. Last season’s full point PPR tally was 373.1 for the frame of reference. He’s a clear RB1 in any league these days but temper your expectations on him being a pass-catching RB. His 51 targets as a receiver were not even top 10 amongst all RBs last season. This is proof his scoring comes from truly the running game. Further proof you shouldn’t be too concerned with Matt Ryan in town.

ADP 2 – Austin Ekeler – Los Angeles Chargers

Look out Fantasy Football Managers. Your draft queue should always consider some of the top-tier talents in the league and some of those players are falling with the Chargers too often. We ranked Justin Herbert as the QB2 for the 2022 Season. Ekeler is a beneficiary of the young Quarterback’s talent. A huge plus side for Ekeler is that he’s targeted quite a lot as a receiver. In fact, in the 2021 season, his 94 targets as a receiver were tied with Najee Harris.

Let’s pack in why Ekeler maintains his ranking here though. Of the 94 times he was targeted as a receiver last season he caught 70 passes and converted them into a LEAGUE high 647 as a Running Back. That is the tea we leave you to consider him as your star in that RB slot this season. Ekeler shared a workload with Justin Jackson towards the end of the 2021 regular season. This was a concern for Fantasy Managers who most in the playoffs at that point of the season would be livid. Ekeler’s ankle was the blame but as it seems should he stay healthy the touches are his.

ADP 3 – Christian McCaffery – Carolina Panthers

Oh, this is touchy! How many of us have been burned by Mr. McCaffery’s inability to stay healthy the past couple of seasons? *Raises hand shamefully*. What we can say is that the rankings you’re seeing check out. CMC is one of the most unique Fantasy Football gems ever. For those in PPR leagues, in 2018 he played every game and scored 385.5 points. In 2019 he played in every game and scored a league-high 471.2 PPR points. Do we want to justify and sell you on taking McCaffery even if you’re not comfortable? No, obviously draft CMC within the top five range of a redraft league at your own risk.

The positives to point out last season is that CMC played 7 games and averaged about 18 points a game between an STD and PPR scoring leagues. The dumbest thing we can write out to you is yes, healthy CMC is the best option for a stud RB. Despite Cam Newton, Sam Darnold, or various backup Quarterbacks taking snaps for the Panthers, we find McCaffery as the perfect pass-catching Running Back Fantasy Football has come across. The last thing to sell you on is to consider that CMC’s workload and injury last season wasn’t season-ending or required major surgery. It would appear the Panthers knew their faith was sold weeks before the season’s end and decided to shut him down.

ADP 4 – Najee Harris – Pittsburg Steelers

All we have is ONE Rookie season to go by, unfortunately. However, Harris still checks out to be one of the top Running Backs to consider especially if you’re drafting late in the first round. Here is where the success lies for Harris. As mentioned above he tied Austin Ekeler in targets out of all the other Running Backs in the league. The flip side is he only turned those receptions into 467 yards. I mean if you’re really doing the math, whether you’re playing in an STD or PPR scoring that’s an easy 46.7 points of yardage beyond his running game (your league scoring could make it for better).

wHat aBoUt a soPhoMoRe sLuMp? Well, the tea there is this, the Steelers plan to reduce Harris’ workload and he seems to be down for that as well per himself. Does this mean he will have a huge drop-off? Probably not but do consider this if you’re licking your chops with a top-five pick in a redraft league. You may want to lean towards the first three mentioned or a stud WR. The good news is Harris is a proven back that can catch and run or just take a handoff and give you what you need. Given his high targeting as a pass-catching RB, he stays in the Top 10 but is perhaps a late first-round pick in redraft leagues.

ADP 5 – Derrick Henry – Tennessee Titans

It’s incredible that Henry has to fall this low when speaking on the Running Backs for fantasy purposes however, not surprising. In a newly minted 17-game schedule we were robbed of Henry in about half of those. He was hurt in Week 8 and did not play in the rest of the regular season. When drafting Henry yes, the workload and injury last year could make you consider passing on him this year. However, consider for once the athlete and talent you’re drafting over the rest of the field after him. You’ll get nobody like Henry.

What is really intriguing about Henry in 2021 is his pass-catching. He was trending for career highs in receptions and receiving yards. In the eight 2021 games, he was targeted 20 times as a receiver and caught 18 of those passes. This resulted in 153 receiving yards before his injury. His previous career-high was in 2019 when he caught 18 passes that resulted in 206 yards (in 15 games).

Of course, the tables slightly turn where Henry’s reliance could amp up that A.J. Brown and Julio Jones are no longer on the team. Newcomer WR Robert Woods is the other distraction for defenses against the Titans and Ryan Tannehill‘s other option besides Henry. Beyond just Henry’s health do some homework on the Titans’ Offense Line periodically if you do decide to take Henry. Blocking is going to be huge to allow him to run through gaps that don’t require him beating his body through defensive lines.

ADP 6 – Joe Mixon – Cincinnati Bengals

We promise we’re not doing this on purpose but it is ironic that Joe Burrow also finished ADP 6 among Quarterbacks in our Early Top 10 Quarterback Rankings. This isn’t on purpose but Mixon also falls within the same window here too. If you’re a total score watcher well consider this, Mixon can land you an easy 250 points overall in PPR scoring when he’s playing each game in the season.

Here is the tea of the other Joe in Cincinnati, he’s the 3rd highest Running Back in the NFL when it came to touches in 2021. He finished 3rd overall (16 TDs) among Running Backs in scoring Touchdowns overall. There aren’t any signs or worries that the Bengals plan to split touches or reduce his touches either. The only concern is how often the Bengals will target Ja’Marr Chase now that Burrow and he are on the same page.

ADP 7 – Dalvin Cook – Minnesota Vikings

The tale of injury-prone Running Backs comes also with Cook in mind. Despite his pure talent to delight fantasy owners with scoring from the passing or running game he somehow misses games. In his five seasons, he has yet to play more than 14 games. Oh, the NFL adding another Week makes it even worse right? Why does all of the internet of Fantasy Football advice list this guy in their Top 10 yearly?! I know we asked the same question but let’s make a justification.

The NFL’s RB talent starts to drop off after the Top 7-10 Running Backs fall come off the board. Cook is the one exception to not allowing yourself to miss out on a guy who can bring you some serious Running Back points but probably will get injured. If that is the case, the best draft tea is to plan accordingly and draft another quality RB in the second round by default. The shortest best answer to why he’s this high always is: he just scores points.

Examples? Sure! In the 2020 season while playing 14 out of 16 games he scored 337.8 points in a full-point PPR setting. In short, if you can live with missing Cook for a couple of games beyond his Bye Week then, you can certainly start him no questions when healthy to expect above-average RB scoring. He will still bring you a solid average per game and overall score better than what’s left after his ADP.

ADP 8 – Javonte Williams – Denver Broncos

This is how we’re thinking. The Denver Broncos bring in Russell Wilson a guy who will probably throw more often than hand-off to an RB? The Broncos Running Back duo of Williams and Melvin Gordon III DOMINATED the touches in 2021 with not the greatest QB room. Top three in total touches in 2021 for Denver? Williams – 246, Gordon III – 231, and Noah Fant – 68. Um, Houston we have a problem if the tides change for a more focused air attack now that Wilson is at QB. To make this a strong point, realize that Noah Fant is no longer with the team (he’s in Seattle) and he was the TIGHT END!

It’s fair to say the Broncos trusted their dynamic duo of RBs to lead the way in 2021 but 2022 brings on a whole new Head Coach and Offense/Defense Coordinators. This screams red flags but wait. Williams is the clear upgrade over Gordon III and the favorite to receive the majority of RB touches. Williams might see fewer touches so his ability to catch and run or run for more yardage this season will be the key to having him be an exploding Fantasy Football season.

As we mentioned above with Dalvin Cook, we’re going to see RBs this season become more average across the board as we get outside of the Top 10. Williams rushed for 903 yards but can he finally become more efficient and go for 1000-plus in 2022? His 7 Touchdowns overall were nice in 2021. Can he score 10 or more TDs in 2022? Those are the questions we can’t answer and why his BEST ranking is this high.

ADP 9 – Aaron Jones – Green Bay Packers

Speaking of touches, here is a talented RB that might start to see the trickle-down of no Davante Adams almost immediately. He’s arguable the next best talent on the Packers roster when it comes to the offense. What CAN NOT be ignored, however, is that Jones saw 223 touches in 2021. He also only played in 15 games vs the 17 available to play in. Adams was the winner of touches right? NOPE, he only saw 123 touches which are equal to his 123 receptions in 2021 (and yes in our WR rankings you’ll find out Adams is just one hell of an efficient WR talent for fantasy purposes).

A good way to put this is that Jones’ reliance is heavy already and the Packers would be operating very similar as they had been. The air attack with Rodgers is going to be slightly different without Adams but in short, the last thing to worry about is the health of Jones. Because his touches are so high on the team if it increases it only gets better to draft Jones late in the first round of a redraft league. In fact, it’s sort of disrespectful that he’s outside of the Top 10 as some ADP rankings are listing 13 at best for Jones. We say you don’t shy away from Jones just because he missed two games last season.

The Packers could tame his usage with A.J. Dillon but that’s not where the talent in their offense is going to rely on unless Jones is indeed hurt at some point in the season. Jones has played in 45 of the 49 games since 2019. His usage rate is a no-brainer he can maintain the touches and come out mostly healthy from season to season.

ADP 10 – Leonard Fournette – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Sorry, we have to do it. Tom Brady is back that is all. Fournette hasn’t had the BEST health record in the last three seasons but he also hasn’t been disappointing when he’s available to play. Also, Fournette is getting some wild ADP rankings for 2022. Some have Fourtnette at the bottom of the Top 10 while the average seems to be about 12-13th ADP ranking. We’ve got to say that Fournette’s health shouldn’t be a factor as his 2020 season is starting to look like a fluke. He was cut from the Jaguars right before preseason and the Buccaneers took him in. He only started three games in 2020 for Tampa but his resurgence in the 2020 Super Bowl run told the story for 2021 (and the Bucs choosing Ronald Jones Jr. for most of the 2020 season over him played a factor).

Last season the starting RB role was clearly his. Despite playing in only 14 of the 17 games he’s still worth looking at strongly this season. The Buccaneers will start the season potentially without Chris Godwin and the starting RB role is Fournette’s by a long stretch. Forunette finished where James Conner and Ezekiel Elliot finish in terms of PPR scoring in 2021. The real tea is Mr. Fournette finished with 84 targets as a receiver in 2021 which was 3rd overall among RBs. Who is the guy throwing him the ball again in 2022? Oh yeah, that one guy that they say is a GOAT.

Fournette’s clear role in the Buccaneers’ offense has been determined and set in stone. Expect another elite season for Fournette. Don’t let 2020 fools gold shy you away from one of the MOST targeted RBs as a pass-catcher. If you’re considering D’Andre Swift instead tame expectations that the Lions are not going to snap the ball as many times as Fournette will with Brady in Tampa Bay.

Right on the bubble

• D’Andre Swift
• Ezekiel Elliot
• Alvin Kamara (still awaiting a decision if he will be suspended)
• Nick Chubb
• James Conner

Early Top 10 Tight End Rankings for 2022 Fantasy Football

Does your league not care for the good ol’ TE position? Still consider drafting one if you can start a FLEX spot or two!

Early Top 10 Quarterback Rankings for NFL 2022 Fantasy Football

Who is ready for some football? As we count down the days to the 2022 NFL season we bring you EARLY Top 10 Rankings for Quarterbacks in Fantasy Football when it comes to the 2022 NFL Fantasy Football season.

Follow us:

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

More from Baseline Times

The D/ST position is often overlooked in fantasy football, and I think it’s because most of us just wish we didn’t have to deal with it. It can be so difficult to pick the right D/ST on any given week, let alone the entire season. The best advice I can give everyone is to just take it week by week. Unless you pull the trigger early and draft the Seahawks or Broncos, you’re most likely going to be playing the streaming game at some point during the season. I’ve been lucky enough to win 2 fantasy championships, and on both occasions, I streamed defenses throughout the season. At some points, I even committed a fantasy football sin and rostered multiple defenses at once. I was looking ahead to future match up and wanted to be ahead of the curve. Sometimes that’s the kind of crazy moves you have to make to get a small advantage. No matter what you do though, there’s going to be a point during the season where your defense will let you down. It’s part of the game. Don’t ever get too discouraged, or too over confident with your D/ST. Unpredictability is something you need to expect. With all that in mind, here are my top 15 defenses for the 2017 season.

15. Jacksonville Jaguars

This one is going to seem a bit out of place. At one point, one of the best defensive strategies was to stream whoever was facing the Jaguars that week. Their offense was garbage, and their defense wasn’t much better. The offense has improved significantly over the last couple of years, and this is the may be the year the defense finally puts it all together too. Last season, the Jaguars scored 75 fantasy points, forced only 13 turnovers, and allowed 25 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. So, after such a poor outing in 2016, why do I think the Jags are worthy of ranking? Well, despite the horrid stat line, Jacksonville is actually a very talented defensive unit. They added, even more, talent over the off season. Calais Campbell, AJ Bouye, and Barry Church were all brought in to help transform a defense that’s good on paper, into a defense that’s good on the field. They’ll be usable this season.

Where I’d draft them: 14th round. Draft them ahead of only your kicker.

14. Los Angeles Rams

Some of you might think I’m crazy for having the Rams on this list after last year, but I think I might even have them a little low. Last season, the Rams scored 72 fantasy points, forced 18 turnovers, and allowed 24.6 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. That’s less than stellar, but a lot has gone down since then. Head Coach, Jeff Fisher, and Defensive Coordinator, Greg Williams, are now gone, replaced by Sean McVay, and legendary Defensive Coordinator, Wade Phillips. With all due respect to McVay, Phillips is the reason I’m both excited, and optimistic. With him at the helm, the Rams will surely improve their horrid red zone defense, which allowed touchdowns at a 71% clip last year. Phillips is also likely to get the most out of Aaron Donald, and Robert Quinn, who are both elite pass rushers. Total it all up, and you get a defensive unit that’s going to catch some folks by surprise next season.

Where I’d draft them: 13th or 14th round. I see a big season coming, but they’re still a defense. Don’t draft early

13. Oakland Raiders

Man, am I going to rank any good defenses at any point? Don’t be fooled. Despite giving up 24.1 points per game, and only scoring 74 fantasy points last season, the Raiders forced a whopping 30 turnovers, per ESPN standard scoring. That was second to only the Atlanta Falcons, who forced 33. The Falcons didn’t make this list because they like to blow 28-3 leads at bad times. As for the Raiders, the ability to create that many turnovers are extremely appealing to any fantasy owner. They’ve improved their secondary a bit, and that should hopefully help them keep the yards and points allowed down. If Bruce Irvin and Khalil Mack help bring the Raiders’ sack total up from the 25 they got last season, then Oakland might just live up to their potential.

Where I’d draft them: 13th or 14th round. The high number of turnovers is nice, but that can fluctuate year to year. Potential is there, but don’t draft them too high.

12. Pittsburgh Steelers

We finally get to a historically good defense. Last season, the Steelers scored 91 fantasy points, forced 23 turnovers, and allowed 20.4 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. It was business as usual for the “Steel Curtain” in 2016, and it should be more of the same this season. With the exception of the Patriots, Pittsburgh’s defense was able to smother their opponents, especially in the red zone, where teams only scored touchdowns on them 48% of the time. The Steelers have talent at every defensive position, and they’re hoping newly drafted rookie, TJ Watt, can eventually replace their long time defensive anchor James Harrison. They’ll be solid all season long.

Where I’d draft them: 13th round. We’re starting to get to more usable defenses now. Honestly, if you chose to stick with Pittsburgh all season long, they would help you more than they’d hurt you. Sometimes, that’s all you can really expect from your defense.

11. Philadelphia Eagles

A seriously underrated D/ST, in my opinion. Last season, the Eagles scored 127 fantasy points, forced 26 turnovers, and allowed 20.7 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. Defensively, the Eagles have one of the best lines in all of football. Their front four can cause havoc, but they need some help in the secondary, and their line backers aren’t exactly blowing people away. What really makes this unit desirable to fantasy owners is their special teams. A weapon like Darren Sproles can seriously turn a game around in the blink of an eye. All he needs is a punt and some room to work. They’re a solid defense, and they’re gonna give you a fair amount of extra points via their special teams.

Where I’d draft them: 13th round. I’m not sure if you’re starting to notice a pattern, but I don’t recommend taking any defense early. Not even one with such an upside on special teams.

10. Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens have been one of the league’s most dominant defenses for over a decade. Last season, they scored 118 fantasy points, forced 28 turnovers, and held teams to 20.1 points game, per ESPN standard scoring. It was a solid season, but despite finishing inside the top 10 in points per game, yards per game, and turnovers, you’d want the same defense we’d all grown accustomed to seeing. The Ravens noticed it too, and they addressed the issue over the off season. They used their first 4 picks in the NFL draft on defensive players, and also signed veteran free agents Brandon Carr, and Tony Jefferson. They should easily be a top 10 defense this year.

Where I’d draft them: 13th round. This is getting pretty redundant now, but virtually no defense is worthy of being taken early. The Ravens are no different

9. Carolina Panthers

The Panthers’ offense wasn’t the only ones suffering from a SuperBowl hangover last year. After an awesome 2015 season, their defense also took a step back in 2016. They scored 101 fantasy points, forced 27 turnovers, and allowed 25.1 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. It was obvious that Carolina’s defense missed Josh Norman. They ranked 29th in passing yards allowed and looked even worse than that when they had to defend Julio Jones. Their secondary is still going to be an issue, but their defensive line got even stronger with the additions of Julius Peppers, and Daeshaun Hall over the off season. Assuming that Luke Kuechly is back to 100%, the Panthers should resemble their 2015 form again this year.

Where I’d draft them: 13th round. Bounce back year should be coming. They’re going to be a solid option this season. The later you land them, the better value they’ll hold.

8. New York Giants

From a team that took a step back last season, to one that made a huge leap. The Giants went from a bottom 5 defense in 2015, to a top 5 defense last season. They scored 130 fantasy points, forced 25 turnovers, and allowed a 17.8 points points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. Last season was just a glimpse of the potential this Giants defense has. They were the only team that could slow down the Cowboys’ offense last season, and they’re looking to carry that’s over to this season. They lost Jonathan Hankins over the off season, but they added Dalvin Tomlinson through the draft to help improve the defense. I see another big year in store for the Giants.

Where I’d draft them: 12th or 13th round. I wouldn’t mind taking a chance one round earlier on a defense with the potential that the Giants have. Just don’t get too cute.

 7. Houston Texans

Now we’re getting into the really good defenses. Last season, Houston scored 102 fantasy points, forced 17 turnovers, and allowed 20.5 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. Despite losing JJ Watt for most of the season, the Texans led the NFL in total yards last year, and surprised most experts with their resilience. A returning Watt will no doubt provide a boost to an already strong Houston defense, and will keep them hovering around the top 5 all season long. I’d feel comfortable rolling them out as my defense every week.

Where I’d draft them: 12th round. I won’t go as far as calling them elite, but they’re in the next tier. I’d feel comfortable reaching for them a little bit sooner.

6. New England Patriots

From a strictly football standpoint, the Patriots probably have the best defense on this list. Last season, they scored 117 fantasy points, forced 23 turnovers, and allowed a league low 15.6 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. From a fantasy standpoint they’re a bit less dominant, but great nonetheless. What makes them so good is their ability to adapt to my style of play. The addition of Stephon Gilmore over the off season will only add to their versatility, and will have them around the top 5 in all defensive categories.

Where I’d draft them: 11th or 12th round. This is where I start to tolerate reaching for defenses you want. As long as you don’t go too crazy, the Patriots should hold good value all year long.

5. Arizona Cardinals

We’ve arrived at the top 5, and what a way to kick it off. On paper, the Cardinals might very well be the most talented defensive unit in the league. They’ve got elite talent at every important position. Last season, they scored 143 fantasy points, forced 28 turnovers, and allowed 22.6 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. They lost Calais Campbell to free agency, but brought in Carlos Dansby to boost the 2nd best run defense in the league last year. Add him to a core of Patrick Peterson, Chandler Jones, and Tyrann Mathieu, and it’s hard not to get excited about the Cardinals defense.

Where I’d draft them: 11th or 12th round. The Cardinals play in one of the most offensively challenged divisions in the league, the NFC West. Draft them and reap the benefits.

4. Minnesota Vikings

The Vinkings stared off hot last year, especially their defense. They allowed just 63 combined points during the first 5 games of the season, and got off to a 5-0 start. They scored 157 fantasy points, forced 27 turnovers, and allowed 19.2 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. Unfortunately for the Vikings, their offense didn’t match their defense, and they eventually became too much dead weight to carry. Things should be a bit different this year though . The Vikings added Latavius Murray through free agency, and drafted Dalvin Cook in the 2nd round of the NFL draft, so they should have way more ball control this year. That’s great news for the defense, and anyone who owns them.

Where I’d draft them: 11th or 12th round. It’s rare to see a defense get dragged down by their offense, but it’s a real possibility for the Vikings. If it wasn’t for that, they’d be ranked even higher. Regardless though, they’re going to have huge games, and a great season.

3. Seattle Seahawks

The top 3 defenses are pretty much interchangeable. It’s honestly all about preference. All three will be elite. We start off with the Seahawks. Last season, they scored 113 fantasy points, forced 19 turnovers, and allowed  18.3 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. They would’ve had an even better season, but they lost their anchor Earl Thomas halfway through the year.  Despite losing Thomas though, the Seahawks finished in the top 5 in points and yards allowed, and 3rd in sacks. With a healthy Thomas, and what should be a motivated Richard Sherman, the Seahawks should be locking teams down again this season.

Where I’d draft them: 11th round. They’re going to be elite all season long, and they also have the luxury of playing in the NFC West. If they stay healthy all year, they will challenge for the top spot in fantasy. They should be vintage the Seahawks this year.

2. Denver Broncos

This season is really going to show us a lot about the Denver defense. Last season, they scored 146 fantasy points, forced 27 turnovers, and allowed 18.6 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. They mostly looked like the same dominant defense that carried them to a SuperBowl the year before, but not against the run. Uncharacteristicly, the Broncos were 28th in the league against the run last season, and losing legendary Defensive Coordinator, Wade Phillips, won’t help improve that. Regardless, they still have Von Miller, and one of the best defensive units in the game so I’m not worried about them at all.

Where I’d draft them: 9th or 10th round. They should be one of the first 3 defenses to get drafted. If they can just improve their run defense a bit, they will defiantly be elite.

1. Kansas City Chiefs

You can agree or disagree, but in my opinion, the Chiefs are going to dominate the rest of the league defensively this year. Last season, they scored 140 fantasy points, forced 33 turnovers, and allowed 19.4 points per game, per ESPN standard scoring. All that virtually came without Derrick Johnson, and Justin Houston, who were injured most of the season. Their absence was felt though, as the Chiefs were in the bottom 10 in both yards allowed, and sacks. They lost Dontari Poe to free agency, but getting Johnson, and Houston back at 100% should be more than enough to end the season as the #1 fantasy defense.

Where I’d draft them: 10th round. I honestly couldn’t be mad if you decide to reach for them earlier. They’re going to be worth the pick, regardless of where you take them. Odds are they’ll go off at some point, and win you a couple of games. If I had my pick of any defense, I’d take them.

Wesly Avendano
Baseline Times NFL Contributor

This offseason, the Saints made a somewhat unexpected splash in free agency. By signing Adrian Peterson to a two-year, $7 million deal, New Orleans added some impressive veteran depth to its backfield. It surely wasn’t Peterson’s first choice, but he found out pretty quickly that there weren’t a ton of teams actively seeking out 32-year-old RBs with injury problems and a checkered past off the field – even if that RB is a future Hall of Famer.

For many years, Peterson was at the height of his game. He’s a once-in-a-generation athlete, 16th All-Time in Rushing Yards, and won the MVP in 2012. He’s just two years removed from leading the league in rushing, so it’s not inconceivable that he could regain his otherworldly form that earned him the nickname “Purple Jesus” during his time in Minnesota, but that’s not likely.

(Photo: Stephen Lew, USA TODAY Sports)

According to FantasyPros, fantasy-footballers are grabbing AP at a nice spot in their drafts. Currently coming off the board at the 69th pick, Peterson is being taken in the 6th round by some of you. The sixth! He’s being drafted ahead of safer bets like Kelvin Benjamin, Stefon Diggs, Cam Newton, and Frank Gore, in addition to a ton of other players with much higher upside.

Don’t draft him that early. Here’s why:

The Saints pass more than nearly every team. 

This may be a surprise to some of you, but the Saints are a pass-first offense and receiving is hardly one of Peterson’s strengths. Last season, New Orleans threw the ball 63.44% of their offensive snaps – good for 5th most in the league. As long as Drew Brees is at the helm, the ball will spend more time in the air than in the hands of his backfield. That won’t change just because the front office brought in an aging superstar.

When the Saints do pass it to a running back, it’s incredibly unlikely that Peterson will be on the receiving end of Brees’ throws. Travaris Cadet is listed as the third back on the Saints’ depth chart, but he won’t be doing much running this season. Last year, Cadet had 4 rushes for 19 yards, but he corraled 40 of 54 targets for 281 yards. His role is likely to stay the same this year, which means Peterson won’t see the field on third downs.

Mark Ingram is better than Adrian Peterson. 

The number one reason All Day will continue his gradual descent into insignificance has nothing to do with Peterson himself.

Mark Ingram is going to make sure you forget that #28 is even on the roster. He makes Peterson’s presence redundant because everything that AP can do, Mark can do better. Ingram is in his prime, and he enters 2017 following a season where he tallied 1362 total yards and 10 touchdowns. His last season average of 5.1 yards-per-carry is higher than all but one of Peterson’s seasons. His 46 receptions on 58 targets are more than Peterson ever had.

Again, Mark Ingram will not have a better career than Adrian Peterson. Please do not think that’s what I’m implying, but Ingram at 27 is better than Peterson at 32.

Fantasy Takeaway: 

Adrian Peterson is a Mark Ingram insurance policy. Ingram will still continue to see the bulk of the workload, and he’ll have a much more productive fantasy season than Peterson. AP is an obvious handcuff, but should not be going in the 6th round.

It was a good signing by the Saints and a fine landing spot for Peterson. However, the only way Purple Jesus’ fantasy value is resurrected is if Ingram suffers a significant injury and doesn’t return.

Kory Schulte, Baseline Times