NEWSLETTER
Fantasy football draft strategies are constantly evolving, and one strategy that has gained popularity in recent years is the Zero Running Back (RB) Strategy.
In this article, we will explore what the Zero RB Strategy entails, how it can be implemented in the 2023 fantasy football season, and the potential risks and rewards associated with this approach. There are a number of ways to implement the zero RB strategy, and while zero RB might get you to the promised land, you need to understand exactly how it works this draft season.
What is the Zero RB Draft Strategy?
The Zero Running Back Strategy is based on the belief that the running back position has become increasingly volatile and unpredictable in recent years. In this strategy, fantasy managers choose to wait until later rounds to draft their first running back, focusing instead on selecting other positions such as wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks in the early rounds. As always, there are many different strategies on how to draft running backs.
How does the Zero Running Back Strategy work?
The Zero RB Strategy aims to take advantage of the NFL’s shift towards passing offenses. By prioritizing wide receivers and other positions early in the draft, fantasy managers can secure top-tier talent at these positions while taking advantage of the relative depth and availability of running backs later in the draft. Make sure you check all the latest rankings to have a good idea of value.
Is the Zero Running Back Strategy a viable strategy in 2023?
The viability of the Zero RB Strategy in 2023 depends on several factors. While the approach has been successful for some fantasy managers in the past, it is important to consider the specific dynamics of your fantasy league and the available player pool. It may be beneficial to analyze the draft tendencies of your league mates and evaluate the running back landscape before committing to the Zero RB Strategy. Do they tend to draft elite running backs like Christian McCaffrey in the first two rounds of their drafts? Do these fantasy players implement a zero RB draft strategy as well? Fantasy sports offer us more than one way to draft and understanding the tendencies of your league mates will help you as you look to make moves later in your draft.
Should I draft my first running back late if I am using the Zero Running Back Strategy?
If you are employing the Zero Running Back Strategy and choosing not to draft running backs early, it is recommended to target running backs in the middle to late rounds of the draft. Look for running backs who have the potential to outperform their draft position or have the opportunity to secure significant playing time due to injuries or other factors. These running backs can provide value for your Zero RB team.
How to Implement the Zero Running Back Strategy in 2023 Fantasy Football
Which running backs should I target in the 2023 fantasy football draft?
When implementing the Zero RB Strategy in the early rounds of a 2023 fantasy football draft, it is crucial to identify running backs who may exceed expectations or have favorable matchups, making them worth more than their perceived draft capital. Look for running backs who are part of a timeshare or have the potential to earn a larger role as the season progresses. Additionally, target rookie running backs who could make an immediate impact or established veterans who are undervalued.
Can I draft using the Zero Running Back Strategy in daily fantasy?
The Zero Running Back Strategy can also be applied to daily fantasy football leagues. In these formats, you have the freedom to construct a new lineup every week, enabling you to take advantage of favorable matchups and exploit value at other positions. Consider the individual scoring rules and the salary structure of the daily fantasy platform when implementing the Zero RB Strategy.
Is the Zero Running Back Strategy still effective for best ball leagues in 2023?
Best ball leagues are another format where the Zero Running Back Strategy can be employed effectively. In these leagues, the highest-scoring players at each position are automatically selected each week. By focusing on wide receivers, tight ends, and quarterbacks early in the draft, you increase your chances of consistently having high-scoring players at these positions throughout the season.
Factors to Consider When Using the Zero RB Strategy in Fantasy Football
How does the Zero Running Back Strategy take advantage of the NFL’s shift towards passing offenses?
The Zero Running Back Strategy capitalizes on the NFL’s trend towards more pass-heavy offenses. By prioritizing wide receivers and other positions early in the draft, fantasy managers can secure players who are likely to receive a significant number of targets and accumulate valuable fantasy points. This approach allows managers to build a strong and consistent roster, even without elite running backs.
What other positions should I prioritize if I am using a Zero Running Back Strategy?
If you are employing the Zero Running Back Strategy, it is essential to prioritize wide receivers, tight ends, and potentially quarterbacks in the early rounds of your draft. Look for wide receivers who are target monsters and have a history of high production. Tight ends who are heavily involved in their team’s passing game can also provide a significant advantage. Additionally, consider quarterbacks who have the potential for a breakout season or consistently put up strong fantasy numbers.
Are there any elite running backs that should still be targeted early in the draft?
While the Zero Running Back Strategy aims to wait on drafting running backs, there are still a few elite options that should be considered early in the draft. Running backs to target like Christian McCaffrey and Austin Ekeler have consistently proven themselves to be high-scoring fantasy assets. If any of these top-tier running backs fall to a later pick in the draft, it may be wise to deviate from the Zero RB Strategy and secure their services for your fantasy football team.
The Risks and Rewards of the Zero Running Back Strategy
What are the potential risks of using the Zero Running Back Strategy in 2023?
As with any draft strategy, there are inherent risks associated with the Zero Running Back Strategy. By passing on running backs early in the draft, you are betting on the depth and availability of serviceable options later on. Injuries and performance declines, of course, can also hamper the effectiveness of this strategy.
It is crucial to continuously evaluate the running back position throughout the season and be proactive on the waiver wire to mitigate these risks as it’s important for managers not just to know when to draft a running back but also to understand how to pivot after draft day and know which running backs to target all season long.
Can the Zero Running Back Strategy lead to a championship in fantasy football?
While the Zero Running Back approach is not a guaranteed path to a championship, it can certainly be a viable option for fantasy managers. In order to succeed, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of the strategy and execute it effectively. Stay knowledgeable about player values, target emerging talent, and make savvy roster moves throughout the season to maximize your chances of success. While running backs are the backbone of fantasy football, they can also represent a lot of risk for many fantasy managers.
Alternatives and Variations to the Zero Running Back Strategy
What is the Zero Running Back and Zero Wide Receiver Approach?
The Zero Running Back and Zero Wide Receiver Approach is a modification of the Zero RB Strategy. Instead of prioritizing wide receivers early in the draft, fantasy managers opt for selecting other positions such as tight ends and quarterbacks. This approach aims to build a balanced team while still capitalizing on the depth of running backs available in later rounds.
Is the Tight End Premium strategy a better alternative to the Zero Running Back Strategy?
The Tight End Premium strategy is another alternative to the Zero Running Back Strategy. In formats that award additional points for tight end receptions or touchdowns, fantasy managers may opt to prioritize the tight end position early in the draft. This strategy aims to gain an advantage at a position that traditionally has a smaller pool of elite players.
