How to Build the Ultimate 10-Team Snake Draft Fantasy Football Team: Best Position Strategy
Fantasy football drafts are a thrilling event for any manager. But in a 10-team snake draft, the strategy changes significantly. This format, with its constant shifting of draft order, demands a different approach to building your roster. So, how can you navigate this complex draft and secure the best possible team? Let's break down the ideal position-by-position strategy for a 10-team snake draft.
Understanding the Dynamics of a 10-Team Snake Draft
The key difference in a 10-team snake draft is the constantly rotating draft order. This means the team who picks first in round one will pick last in round two, and so on. This dynamic creates both advantages and challenges:
- Early Picks: You get to choose early in the first few rounds, securing top-tier players.
- Late Picks: You get to select players later in the draft, potentially getting undervalued talent.
- Predictability: Since the draft order is fixed, it's easier to anticipate which players will be available at certain picks.
The Optimal Position Strategy
So, with the unique nature of a 10-team snake draft in mind, here's a suggested approach:
**Round 1: **
- Top RBs: In a 10-team league, the running back position is even more crucial. Go after the elite options like Christian McCaffrey or Jonathan Taylor. Don't hesitate to grab a high-end RB even if you have a top-tier QB on your board.
**Round 2: **
- Second Tier RBs: The second round presents an opportunity to grab another high-quality running back or potentially a WR1. Look for players like Austin Ekeler or Derrick Henry.
**Round 3: **
- WR1/WR2: With your first two rounds dedicated to RBs, you can now target a strong wide receiver, like Davante Adams or Justin Jefferson. You can also consider a third-round RB if you haven't snagged one yet.
**Round 4: **
- WR2/QB: Aim for another solid wide receiver who can complement your WR1. If you have a strong QB on your board, this round is a good time to select them.
**Round 5: **
- TE: This is a critical round for securing your starting tight end. Go for a proven option like Travis Kelce or Mark Andrews.
**Round 6-7: **
- RB/WR Flexibility: Focus on picking players with upside potential. Look for late-round RBs with a chance to break out, or snag a mid-tier WR with a good matchup.
**Round 8-10: **
- Backup QB and Kicker: This is the time to secure a backup QB and kicker. Don't neglect the kicker position in a 10-team league; a solid kicker can make a difference in your weekly scores.
**Round 11+: **
- Flex/Depth: Focus on filling out your flex position with players who can contribute as starters or provide valuable depth.
Key Considerations for 10-Team Snake Drafts
- Early RBs: The value of running backs is heightened in 10-team leagues. Prioritizing them in your first few rounds is essential.
- WR Depth: With a larger number of teams, finding quality wide receivers becomes more competitive. Aim for at least two solid WRs by the end of the draft.
- Tight End: Since you'll be competing with more teams, locking down a top tight end early is crucial.
- Late-Round Value: The later rounds in a 10-team snake draft can offer some hidden gems. Be ready to pounce on value picks.
- Don't Overreact: Avoid being swayed by early picks. Stick to your strategy and don't make hasty decisions.
Examples of 10-Team Snake Draft Success
Draft #1:
- Round 1: Christian McCaffrey (RB)
- Round 2: Austin Ekeler (RB)
- Round 3: Davante Adams (WR)
- Round 4: CeeDee Lamb (WR)
- Round 5: Travis Kelce (TE)
This draft demonstrates the importance of building a strong foundation with RBs and WRs early on, while still securing a top-tier tight end.
Draft #2:
- Round 1: Jonathan Taylor (RB)
- Round 2: Cooper Kupp (WR)
- Round 3: Justin Jefferson (WR)
- Round 4: Josh Allen (QB)
- Round 5: Mark Andrews (TE)
This draft prioritizes early round RBs and top WRs, while securing a high-level QB in a later round.
Conclusion
A 10-team snake draft requires a unique and adaptable strategy. By focusing on securing strong RBs early, finding value in the middle rounds, and building depth in the later rounds, you can maximize your chances of building a championship contender. Remember to research, be flexible, and enjoy the process!