Entering the Fantasy Football Draft: Have a Backup Plan

In the competitive world of fantasy football, having a solid draft plan is crucial. However, even the best-laid plans can falter when top targets go off the board. Thus, savvy managers should include fallback options in their strategy. These backup players may not always boast the headlines or stats of premier athletes, but they can be reliable starters, enhancing your roster with dependable production.

Quarterback Fallback: Baker Mayfield

For those aiming to draft quarterback stars like Josh Allen or Joe Burrow, consider Baker Mayfield as a fallback. Following a career renaissance in Tampa Bay, Mayfield finished as the QB4 in 2024, showcasing an impressive 4,500 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. With the return of Chris Godwin Sr. and the addition of rookie Emeka Egbuka to the receiving corps, Mayfield’s prospects look bright as he continues to be a solid mid-round starter with a unique rushing capability, amassing 378 rushing yards—a significant uptick for his position.

Running Back Option: Alvin Kamara

Alvin Kamara, while no longer the explosive young star, remains a dependable option in 2025. As the preseason RB14, Kamara's significant volume of touches solidifies his position as a reliable back, guaranteed to be a key player with the Saints under new head coach Kellen Moore. Despite facing injury setbacks, Kamara's history of consistent performance makes him an excellent fallback option for managers who miss out on higher-profile names like Saquon Barkley.

Wide Receiver Pick: Calvin Ridley

Consider Calvin Ridley for a wide receiver fallback plan. While he faced challenges in his initial season with the Tennessee Titans, Ridley displayed potential with 1,017 receiving yards. If rookie quarterback Cam Ward can elevate the offense, Ridley has a chance at a breakout season, making him a valuable target if you miss on established names like Marvin Harrison Jr.

Tight End Backup: Jonnu Smith

If you don’t land elite tight ends like Brock Bowers, don’t overlook Jonnu Smith. Despite moving from the Dolphins to the Steelers, Smith’s performance last season as the TE4 was commendable, with 88 receptions and 884 yards. Working alongside quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Smith could potentially see a jump in production, making him a worthy late-round investment for managers seeking tight end reliability.

Final Thoughts

In fantasy football, the key isn't just in securing top talents but also in preparing for alternatives. By considering these fallback options, managers can build a well-rounded team even when their prime targets slip away. Be sure to keep these players on your radar as you prepare for your 2025 draft.