As we approach the end of August, fantasy football drafts are in full swing, and understanding player trends is crucial for building a winning team. The latest data from Yahoo Fantasy Football reveals significant shifts in Average Draft Position (ADP), spotlighting players rising and falling in value. This report covers the major risers and fallers, helping you make informed decisions before finalizing your draft.
Biggest ADP Risers
Honorable Mentions
Several players have recorded noteworthy rises, but they didn’t quite make the top tier. Notably, Emeka Egbuka continues to climb due to increased opportunities following Jalen McMillan’s injury, making him a riser to keep an eye on. Similarly, Nick Chubb has seen a spike, partly due to the ambiguous situation surrounding Joe Mixon’s injury. Furthermore, Stefon Diggs and Tony Pollard are also gaining traction as drafters recognize their significant roles in improving offenses.
5. Tyler Warren, TE, Indianapolis Colts (ADP -10.05)
With the announcement that Daniel Jones will be the Colts’ starting quarterback, Tyler Warren is positioned to benefit substantially. Drafted 14th overall, Warren has shown immense potential, especially in a system that has historically favored rookie tight ends. As he finds his role amid competition with Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs, drafting him as a fringe TE1 could yield dividends.
4. TreVeyon Henderson, RB, New England Patriots (ADP -10.40)
Henderson’s rise has been remarkable, moving over 20 spots in the last two weeks. His performance in the pre-season, combined with the Patriots’ decision to draft him in the second round, has highlighted his explosive potential. Some speculate that he may eventually take over the lead back role in New England, making him worth a look in early rounds.
3. Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers (ADP -13.74)
Pearsall has made significant strides, climbing from being undrafted to a viable WR3 option by the end of the seventh round. His performance and rapport with the 49ers’ quarterbacks have established him as a key target. For those looking to round out their wide receiver corps in the sixth round, Pearsall presents an excellent opportunity.
2. Braelon Allen, RB, New York Jets (ADP -27.90)
Allen has emerged as a potent option for the Jets, particularly concerning the potential downswing of Breece Hall and ongoing discussions regarding a committee approach. Allen’s impressive showing in the preseason poses him as a competitive backfield option that fantasy owners should not overlook.
1. Jacory Croskey-Merritt, RB, Washington Commanders (ADP -58.59)
Perhaps the biggest surprise, Croskey-Merritt (often referred to as "Bill") has seen his stock soar post-trade of Brian Robinson Jr. to the 49ers. His substantial rise from the 200s to the 10th round signifies the intrigue surrounding his role. While there remains uncertainty about the Washington backfield, he’s certainly one to watch as a late-round flyer.
Biggest ADP Fallers
Honorable Mentions
Several prominent players are also dropping in ADP. Joe Mixon, due to injury concerns, Chris Godwin Jr., and Rashee Rice are among those gaining negative attention. Additionally, Jerry Jeudy and David Njoku are seeing their stocks dip despite potential roles in improving offenses.
5. David Montgomery, RB, Detroit Lions (ADP +5.20)
Montgomery’s recent dip can be attributed to concerns over a new offensive scheme, as well as the introduction of Jahmyr Gibbs as a formidable back. The potential loss of key offensive linemen does not bode well for Montgomery’s reliability in generating fantasy points consistently.
4. Jerry Jeudy & David Njoku, WR & TE, Cleveland Browns (ADP +3.75 & +6.04)
While some are concerned over the Browns quarterback situation, it’s important to note that Joe Flacco provides a more reliable option than previous quarterbacks. This decline in ADP may actually offer value, as both players hold significant upside due to potential target volumes.
3. Brian Robinson Jr., RB, San Francisco 49ers (ADP +10.24)
Robinson’s recent trade to the 49ers solidifies his standing as a depth piece in an already crowded backfield behind Christian McCaffrey. While some expect him to contribute in specific situations, his upside has significantly diminished, relegating him to potential touchdown vulture status.
2. Justin Fields, New York Jets, QB (ADP +11.03)
Fields is experiencing a worrying fall on draft boards, primarily due to an uninspiring preseason. However, his value as a high-end QB1 lies in his rushing ability. Despite the concerns, if he holds the starting role, Fields could be a steal in the later rounds.
1. Jayden Reed, WR, Green Bay Packers (+16.58)
Reed’s struggles have continued, particularly after the Packers drafted Matthew Golden. Add in a foot injury, and his stock has plummeted. With the depth chart getting crowded and minimal production expected, he may not be worth the risk, particularly in the early double-digit rounds.
Conclusion
Understanding ADP shifts is vital for success in fantasy football. As players’ values fluctuate in these final weeks before drafts, keeping tabs on these trends will provide a strategic advantage. Whether investing in risers like Tyler Warren or being cautious around fallers such as Jayden Reed, the insights gathered here will equip fantasy managers to make informed decisions. Remember to consider team situations, emerging roles, and the potential long-term value of players, thus allowing for a balanced and effective draft strategy this season.
