Fantasy Football Today: Pick-by-Pick Part One—How to Build from Picks 1-6

Release Date: July 23, 2025

In the premiere episode of the "Pick-by-Pick" series, the "Fantasy Football Today" team delves deep into the strategies behind the crucial early picks in a fantasy football draft. Hosted by Adam Aizer alongside analysts Dave Richard, Jamey Eisenberg, and Heath Cummings, this episode provides listeners with expert insights on building a formidable team from the first six selections in a 12-team PPR (Point Per Reception) mock draft.

1. Introduction to the Pick-by-Pick Series

The episode kicks off with the hosts introducing the "Pick-by-Pick" series, aimed at dissecting mock drafts to uncover optimal drafting strategies. Adam encourages listeners to engage by sending in emails and leaving reviews, emphasizing the importance of community interaction in refining draft approaches.

"As we start to do more and more mock drafts, more real drafts, just wondering if things are coming into focus a little bit more for you in terms of team building exercises and whatnot." (02:24)

2. Draft Strategies and Team Building Insights

Jamey Eisenberg shares his experiences from a mock draft with 11 random participants, highlighting the unpredictability compared to drafting within familiar leagues.

"Last night was first time I drafted Joe Mixon... I waited too long on quarterbacks was another one that played itself out in the mock draft that we did." (04:12)

Dave Richard emphasizes the scarcity of elite running backs and wide receivers, stressing the importance of prioritizing these positions early to avoid missing out on top-tier talent.

"The number of elite tier running backs is even smaller for me, it's six and that includes a rookie. So one of the decisions... is which position do you want to tackle first?" (06:21)

Adam Aizer discusses his contemplation over tight ends and elite quarterbacks, weighing their value against other high-impact positions.

"I feel pretty good and clear about everything when I'm drafting right now, except how I feel about Brock Bowers and Trey McBride." (07:49)

3. Player Analysis and Positional Strategy

The hosts delve into the intricacies of drafting tight ends and quarterbacks, analyzing the Average Draft Position (ADP) and potential performance metrics.

Adam Aizer shares his skepticism about the current top tight ends' ability to consistently produce high PPR points, citing offensive dependencies and historical performance.

"I don't think Najee is going to be out... I chose 17 points per game as kind of arbitrary as what they would need to justify second round picks." (08:13)

Dave Richard recommends waiting on tight end decisions, suggesting flexibility in the later rounds to capitalize on emerging value.

"At pick five, it's really much more realistic... you're probably waiting on quarterback and tight end." (33:29)

Heath Cummings and Jamey Eisenberg discuss their draft picks, highlighting the balancing act between securing reliable performers and taking calculated risks on high-upside players.

"If you're looking at players like McBride and Bowers, you're going to have to pass on one of the elite tier receivers to do it and vice versa." (08:33)

4. Team Comparisons and Critiques

The episode features an analysis of mock teams drafted by the hosts, offering constructive critiques and alternative strategies.

Adam Aizer evaluates Dave Richard's team, praising the balance but questioning the depth at running back.

"I would have taken Brian Robinson ahead of Javante... You need to have a good backup running back." (46:08)

Heath Cummings defends his choices, emphasizing the importance of conviction and the potential upside of his selections, even if they diverge from consensus rankings.

"He drafts with pure conviction... there are going to be people who are like that in every single home league out there." (57:00)

Jamey Eisenberg provides his perspective on team builds, acknowledging both strengths and potential vulnerabilities, particularly in receiver depth.

"I'm thrilled with the way it worked out... What would you rather have? Chase Higgins or McConkey?" (38:22)

5. News and Updates

Beyond draft strategies, the hosts touch upon pertinent NFL news affecting fantasy decisions, including player injuries, holdouts, and roster changes.

Kyron Williams seeks a contract extension but is participating in practice, ensuring his availability for the season. (17:35)

Joe Mixon remains on the non-football injury list, with updates suggesting potential recovery timelines. (17:33)

6. Final Takeaways and Strategic Recommendations

As the episode wraps up, the hosts summarize key strategies for approaching early draft picks:

• Prioritize Elite Running Backs and Wide Receivers: Given their limited drop-off in performance and higher consistency in PPR leagues.

• Wait on Tight Ends and Quarterbacks: Unless a top-tier option falls to a desirable draft position, maintaining flexibility allows for better value picks later.

• Adapt to League Dynamics: Understanding your league's preferences and tendencies can offer strategic advantages in targeting undervalued positions.

"If you have one of the first three picks in a 12 team league... thinking you might be waiting on quarterback and tight end. And that's exactly what Jamie and I did and I have no problem with it." (32:39)

The episode concludes with a teaser for the next installment, promising to cover picks 7-12 and continue the in-depth analysis of fantasy football strategies.

Notable Quotes

• "Fantasy football is unpredictable and fun. So take this as a helpful guide, not as gospel." – Adam Aizer (11:45)

• "If you're looking at players like McBride and Bowers, you're going to have to pass on one of the elite tier receivers to do it and vice versa." – Dave Richard (08:33)

• "He drafts with pure conviction... there are going to be people who are like that in every single home league out there." – Heath Cummings (57:00)

Conclusion

This episode of "Fantasy Football Today" serves as an invaluable resource for fantasy managers aiming to excel in their leagues. By dissecting mock drafts and providing candid analyses, the hosts equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions during the critical early rounds of their drafts. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer, the strategies discussed offer a blueprint for constructing a competitive and balanced fantasy football team.

For more insights and continued coverage, tune into the next episode of "Fantasy Football Today" as the hosts explore selections 7 through 12 in their ongoing pick-by-pick series.