Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary: Live MOCK Draft Episode + Draft Strategy (June 20, 2017)

Hosted by Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Introduction

In this engaging episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, the expert trio—Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright—conduct a live mock draft tailored for a two-quarterback (Super Flex) PPR league from the sixth overall pick. Recorded prematurely during their attendance at the Fantasy Sports Trade Association conference in New York City, the hosts dive deep into draft strategies, player evaluations, and team construction unique to this league format.

2. Evaluating the Big Three Running Backs: Elliott, Johnson, and Bell

Discussion Highlights:

The podcast kicks off with a critical analysis of the "Big Three" running backs: Ezekiel Elliott, David Johnson (DJ), and Le'Veon Bell. The hosts debate the potential pitfalls each player might face, particularly focusing on injury risks and workload management.

• Jason Moore (04:00):

  "If one of these three doesn't produce this year, it's probably going to be because one of them got injured."

• Mike Wright (05:05):

  "Ezekiel Elliott's situation has actually gotten worse... "

Key Insights:

• Le'Veon Bell is identified by Jason Moore as the most likely to "bust" due to his significant workload and history of injuries, despite his high talent level.
• Ezekiel Elliott is discussed as a potential bust not because of his performance but due to diminished involvement in the passing game and offensive line issues.
• David Johnson is acknowledged for his durability but faces questions about workload sustainability.

The hosts agree that all three players have high ceilings but also carry risks that fantasy managers must consider when drafting.

3. Draft Strategy in a Two-Quarterback Super Flex PPR League

Discussion Highlights:

Shifting focus to the unique dynamics of a Super Flex league, the trio emphasizes the importance of securing multiple quarterbacks early due to the increased demand.

• Jason Moore (01:40):

  "If you are in a Super Flex and you are not playing with the strategy of two quarterbacks, you are doing Super Flex wrong, in my opinion."

• Jason Moore (10:51):

  "There's one of the reasons why late quarterbacks work so well is because of streaming. You can actually play successfully off of the waiver wire every single week and succeed. You cannot do that in a two quarterback league."

Key Insights:

• Quarterback Priority: The scarcity of reliable quarterbacks in Super Flex leagues necessitates early investment in the position. Unlike standard leagues where quarterbacks can be effectively streamed, Super Flex requires depth and stability.
• Roster Construction: Managers should aim to draft three quarterbacks to navigate potential injuries and maximize weekly matchups. This strategy contrasts with traditional leagues where one quarterback suffices.
• Position Scarcity: Tight ends and running backs also experience increased value due to roster space constraints, but quarterbacks take precedence.

4. Live Draft Picks and Team Construction

Discussion Highlights:

The hosts navigate through their mock draft picks, balancing talent acquisition with strategic position needs.

• First Round Picks (12:48):

  • Andy Holloway: Selects David Johnson as the first overall pick.
  • Other Top Picks: Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers are chosen early, reflecting their high value in Super Flex formats.

• Third Round Picks (18:11):

  • Mike Wright: Chooses Rob Gronkowski, an unconventional early tight end pick influenced by his unique value.

• Later Rounds (20:02 - 44:38):

  • Running Backs and Wide Receivers: The team is built with a mix of high-upside players like Devonta Freeman, Antonio Brown, Sammy Watkins, and Larry Fitzgerald.
  • Quarterback Depth: Matthew Stafford and Carson Palmer are selected to secure the crucial quarterback spots.

Notable Moments:

• Jason Moore on Tight Ends (08:58):

  "The podcast is for everyone. There's the industry and stat breakdown for the hardcore players, humor for those just want to have fun and a sense of community like you were just talking about."

• Andy Holloway on Gronkowski (21:30):

  "Smash Jackson counts as two positions compared to the other tight ends..."

Key Insights:

• Early Tight End Selection: Gronkowski's early selection is debated, highlighting the tension between positional value and roster flexibility.
• Wide Receiver Depth: The draft showcases abundant talent at wide receiver, allowing managers to prioritize stability in this position.
• Running Back Strategy: Balancing between secure RB1s and high-upside RB2s becomes a focal point, especially in PPR formats where pass-catching ability enhances value.

5. Final Team Composition and Analysis

Final Roster:

• Quarterbacks: Matthew Stafford, Carson Palmer
• Running Backs: Devonta Freeman, Frank Gore, Alvin Kamara
• Wide Receivers: Antonio Brown, Sammy Watkins, Rob Gronkowski, Larry Fitzgerald
• Tight End: Rob Gronkowski
• Bench: Willie Snead, Theo Riddick, Jeremy Macklin, Josh Docks

Pros:

• Strong QB Duo: Stafford and Palmer provide reliable weekly outputs and depth for Super Flex requirements.
• Elite Wide Receivers: Antonio Brown and Larry Fitzgerald offer high PPR value, complemented by Sammy Watkins and Rob Gronkowski.
• Running Back Depth: Devonta Freeman and Alvin Kamara present high upside, while Frank Gore serves as a solid RB2 option.

Cons:

• Tight End Early Investment: Gronkowski's early selection limits flexibility but is justified by his high ceiling.
• Limited RB2 Stability: Reliance on Frank Gore and Alvin Kamara introduces some risk, albeit with significant upside.

Key Insights:

• The team's construction reflects a balanced approach, prioritizing quarterback depth without compromising on wide receiver strength.
• The selection of Gronkowski, despite being unconventional, aligns with the need for positional scarcity in Super Flex leagues.

6. Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Main Learnings:

• Prioritize Quarterbacks: In Super Flex PPR leagues, securing at least two quarterbacks early is paramount due to the increased demand and difficulty in streaming effectively.

• Balance Across Positions: While quarterbacks take precedence, maintaining depth in running backs and wide receivers ensures flexibility and stability throughout the season.

• Assess Player Risks: Evaluating injury histories and workload potential for top players like Ezekiel Elliott, David Johnson, and Le'Veon Bell is crucial in mitigating bust risks.

• Flex Position Strategy: Leveraging elite wide receivers and versatile running backs enhances the value of the flex spot, especially in PPR formats where reception counts heavily.

Final Remarks:

The Fantasy Footballers deliver a comprehensive and strategic approach to drafting in a two-quarterback PPR Super Flex league. Their live mock draft serves as a valuable guide for fantasy managers aiming to build competitive and resilient teams tailored to the unique demands of this format.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason Moore (10:51):

  "The worst thing we could do here is draft quarterback."

• Andy Holloway (22:11):

  "I want Matthew Stafford here, that would be my pick."

• Mike Wright (47:47):

  "I believe I would take him over Terrence West. Taking him over Alvin Kamara."

For more insights and strategies, join the Fantasy Footballers community at fantasyfootballers.com and follow them on Twitter @theffballers.