What is the worst draft position in fantasy football, and why does it feel like picking last is a cosmic joke?

Fantasy football is a game of strategy, luck, and, sometimes, sheer frustration. One of the most debated topics among fantasy enthusiasts is the impact of draft position on a team’s success. While some argue that any position can yield a championship-caliber team, others swear that certain spots are cursed. So, what is the worst draft position in fantasy football, and why does it feel like picking last is a cosmic joke? Let’s dive into the nuances of draft strategy, player availability, and the psychological toll of being stuck in the dreaded “middle” or “end” of the draft order.
The Case Against the Middle Positions (Picks 5-8)
Many fantasy managers dread landing in the middle of the draft order, typically picks 5 through 8 in a 12-team league. Here’s why:
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Lack of Elite Talent: By the time the middle picks roll around, the top-tier running backs and wide receivers—think Christian McCaffrey, Justin Jefferson, or Ja’Marr Chase—are often off the board. This forces managers to settle for players with higher risk or lower upside.
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The “Dead Zone” Running Backs: The middle rounds are notorious for being the “running back dead zone,” where managers are tempted to draft RBs who either have limited upside or are stuck in committees. This can lead to wasted picks and a lack of depth at the most critical position in fantasy football.
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Reactive Drafting: Being in the middle often means you’re at the mercy of the managers picking before and after you. If a run on a position starts, you might miss out entirely, forcing you to pivot to a less desirable strategy.
The Curse of the Last Pick (Pick 12 in a 12-Team League)
While the middle positions have their challenges, the last pick in the draft (Pick 12 in a 12-team league) is often considered the worst. Here’s why:
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The Long Wait Between Picks: With back-to-back picks at the turn, managers at the end of the draft must wait 22 picks before their next selection. This can feel like an eternity, especially if a run on a position occurs during that time.
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Pressure to Hit on Both Picks: The back-to-back nature of the turn means there’s immense pressure to nail both selections. If you miss on one or both, your team could be in trouble before the season even starts.
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Limited Flexibility: Being at the end of the draft often forces managers into a “best player available” approach, which can lead to positional imbalances. For example, you might end up with two elite wide receivers but no reliable running backs.
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Psychological Toll: Let’s face it—picking last feels like a punishment. It’s hard to shake the feeling that you’re already at a disadvantage, even if the draft hasn’t started yet.
The Counterargument: Every Position Has Value
While the middle and end positions have their drawbacks, some argue that no draft spot is inherently worse than another. Here’s why:
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Depth Over Stars: In recent years, the fantasy landscape has shifted toward a more balanced approach. With the rise of committee backfields and pass-heavy offenses, having a deep roster of reliable players can be just as valuable as having a few superstars.
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Adaptability: A skilled fantasy manager can adapt to any draft position. Whether you’re picking first or last, the key is to stay flexible and capitalize on value as it falls to you.
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Waiver Wire Wins: Draft position is just one piece of the puzzle. Savvy managers know that the waiver wire and in-season management are just as important as the draft itself.
Strategies to Overcome a Bad Draft Position
If you find yourself stuck in a less-than-ideal draft spot, don’t panic. Here are some strategies to turn the tide in your favor:
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Embrace Zero RB or Hero RB: If you’re picking late, consider punting the running back position early and loading up on elite wide receivers and tight ends. This strategy can pay off if you hit on late-round RBs or find gems on the waiver wire.
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Target High-Upside Players: In the middle and late rounds, focus on players with breakout potential. Look for rookies, players in new systems, or those coming off injuries who could outperform their ADP (average draft position).
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Trade Back: If you’re really unhappy with your draft position, consider trading back to acquire more picks. This can give you more opportunities to hit on late-round sleepers.
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Stay Active on the Waiver Wire: No matter where you draft, the waiver wire is your best friend. Be proactive in scooping up breakout players and handcuffs throughout the season.
Final Thoughts
While some draft positions are undeniably tougher than others, fantasy football is ultimately a game of skill, luck, and adaptability. Whether you’re picking first, last, or somewhere in between, the key is to stay flexible, trust your research, and have fun. After all, even the worst draft position can lead to a championship if you play your cards right.
Related Q&A
Q: Is it better to draft early or late in fantasy football?
A: It depends on your strategy. Early picks give you access to elite talent, while late picks allow you to build depth and capitalize on value.
Q: What is the “running back dead zone”?
A: The running back dead zone refers to the middle rounds of the draft, where RBs often have limited upside or are stuck in committees.
Q: Can you win fantasy football from the last draft position?
A: Absolutely! While it’s challenging, a well-executed draft and active waiver wire management can lead to success from any position.
Q: Should I trade my draft position if I don’t like it?
A: Trading your draft position can be a smart move if you’re unhappy with your spot. Just make sure you’re getting fair value in return.