Zero WR Draft Strategy 101
Navigating any fantasy draft can be a challenging endeavor. Having the framework of a plan from any spot is the best way to simplify the process. This year when drafting from inside the top-four or in the latter parts of the first, Zero WR is the best blueprint to work from. We all know about Zero RB. The Zero WR draft strategy is the same concept, except we are drafting “zero WR” in the first four-plus rounds instead of no RBs. Sure, the strategy may sound simple, but it will only work if you know who to target at the other positions and when to target them.
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Primary Targets at RB for Zero WR
Early in the first round, the stud RBs will be readily available and present fairly safe choices. Because all present high volume in the workhorse category and added value in the passing game, Saquon Barkley, Ezekiel Elliot, Christian McCaffrey, and Alvin Kamara are the main targets here. Most are on quality offenses (with the exception of Barkley) that will supply plenty of touchdown opportunity. Saquon is a home run hitter that can score from anywhere on the field.
In the back of the first round, there are more question marks on the RBs. An elite TE would also be a solid option. Joe Mixon, Le’Veon Bell, David Johnson and Nick Chubb would be the RBs to target. Due to being on non-elite offenses and having question marks surrounding true usage, they typically fall a little bit. However, all have shown the talent to finish in the top-five and could easily do so this year.
Secondary RB Targets for Zero WR
The opportunity to double-up on potential stud RBs is too enticing to pass up. RBs like Marlon Mack, Derrick Henry, and Devonta Freeman would look good paired with any of the above. All three are on solid offenses and should see the volume to help them out-perform their current draft positions.
Don’t Double Zero
With any of the Zero strategies there’s an admitted weakening of one position. Maximizing the talent at the other positions is the key to capitalize on the positional advantage. This means taking a TE and QB earlier than usual to not punt multiple positions. Travis Kelce, Zach Ertz, and George Kittle would be good targets in the second round. It’s possible to still wait on QB, but a round or two earlier should help ensure a solid weekly option.
From Zero WR to Hero
Building a WR corps with touchdown upside will help mitigate the lack of guaranteed pass volume that will be missing from passing on the elite options. WRs like Mike Williams, Corey Davis, Robby Anderson, and Will Fuller would fit the bill. Mainly because all have shown an above average ability to be red zone weapons on their teams.
Later names like Marquez Valdes-Scantling, N’Keal Harry, James Washington and Anthony Miller would also present touchdown upside from high-powered offenses. Continuing to build on upside and opportunity to vastly out perform draft position will allow the team to compete on a week to week basis.
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