Draft day is the most crucial day for any fantasy football manager. Securing those top picks can set the tone for a successful season. In this article, we will be breaking down the first round of fantasy football drafts using Yahoo ADP (Average Draft Position) data to help you make informed decisions. Knowing who to pick and when can make or break your chances of winning a championship. We will delve into each of the top picks, providing insights, potential risks, and strategic considerations to guide your draft.
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of potential first-rounders is essential. With the 2025 NFL season on the horizon, making informed decisions is more critical than ever. We’ll evaluate players like Ja’Marr Chase, Bijan Robinson, and Saquon Barkley, assessing their potential impact on your fantasy team. This analysis offers a comprehensive overview to help you navigate the crucial first round and build a competitive roster.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Detailed analysis of the top 12 Yahoo ADP picks
- Potential risks and rewards associated with each player
- Alternative players to consider
- Expert insights to guide your draft strategy
Ja’Marr Chase (Bengals WR) – Yahoo ADP 1.01
Ja’Marr Chase is often the consensus top pick, and for good reason. As the primary target for Joe Burrow, Chase has the potential to be the top-scoring wide receiver in fantasy football. His explosive playmaking ability and consistent target share make him a safe and high-upside pick. However, the risk of injury to either Chase or Burrow remains a concern.
In 2024, Chase consistently delivered high-scoring performances, solidifying his status as a top-tier fantasy receiver. His ability to gain yards after the catch and his nose for the end zone make him a threat every time he touches the ball.
“No hesitations here. Maybe Chase finishes as the WR4 or 5 after you drafted him first overall; that’s hardly a meaningful loss. The only way I see a significant flop is if Chase or Joe Burrow gets hurt. You can’t predict that.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
While there’s always a slight chance he might not finish as WR1, the risk is minimal. Drafting Chase first overall is a solid foundation for your fantasy team.
Bijan Robinson (Falcons RB) – Yahoo ADP 1.02
Bijan Robinson is poised for a breakout season in 2025. With a year of experience under his belt, Robinson is expected to take on a larger role in the Falcons’ offense. His combination of rushing ability and receiving skills makes him an ideal fantasy running back. The potential for increased explosive plays under Zac Robinson’s offensive scheme adds to his appeal.
Robinson’s versatility sets him apart from other running backs. His ability to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield gives him a high floor in PPR formats. In 2024, he showcased glimpses of his potential, and 2025 could be the year he puts it all together.
“He’s my RB1 in drafts this year. He was fantastic last year and has room for growth… A slight tweak in Year 2 of Zac Robinson could be just what we ordered.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Robinson’s potential for growth and his role in a dynamic offense make him a top-tier pick in fantasy drafts.
Saquon Barkley (Eagles RB) – Yahoo ADP 1.03
Saquon Barkley, now with the Eagles, presents a compelling option as a top-three pick. His proven track record and the Eagles’ strong offensive line make him a player with significant upside. However, concerns about his workload after a heavy usage in 2024 linger.
Barkley’s move to Philadelphia could rejuvenate his career. The Eagles’ offense is known for its ability to produce high-scoring running backs, making Barkley an attractive option. Despite the historical concerns, his talent is undeniable.
“I personally have Robinson ranked ahead of Barkley, but I’m still fine with the latter as a top-three pick. History is against Barkley after he logged an absurd amount of touches in 2024.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Drafting Barkley is a bet on his talent and the Eagles’ offense, but it’s essential to acknowledge the potential risks associated with his past workload.
Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions RB) – Yahoo ADP 1.04
Jahmyr Gibbs is an explosive player in a strong offensive ecosystem. Despite potential regressions in the Lions’ offense and the presence of David Montgomery, Gibbs has the potential to be a league-winning pick. His dynamic playmaking ability and increasing role make him a high-upside selection.
Gibbs showcased his explosiveness in 2024, and the expectation is that he will continue to ascend as the lead back. His ability to break off long runs and contribute in the passing game makes him a valuable asset in fantasy football.
“He’s in danger of the Lions offense regressing and the interior offensive line withering… You just need to bet on an explosive player in a still-strong ecosystem who should only be ascending as the lead back. It’s a bet I am willing to make.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Taking Gibbs requires a belief in his talent and the Lions’ offense, but the potential rewards are significant.
Justin Jefferson (Vikings WR) – Yahoo ADP 1.05
Justin Jefferson remains a top-tier pick, despite concerns about the Vikings’ passing volume with an inexperienced quarterback. His exceptional talent and ability to command targets make him a reliable option. If he’s back to full health, Jefferson’s potential is limitless.
Jefferson has consistently been one of the top-performing wide receivers in fantasy football. His route-running skills and ability to make contested catches make him a favorite target for any quarterback. Even with uncertainty at the quarterback position, Jefferson’s talent should shine through.
“I’m perfectly fine with Justin Jefferson as a Round 1 pick… However, I have the next guy ranked ahead of him due to my concerns about Minnesota’s passing volume while starting an inexperienced quarterback.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Despite the concerns, Jefferson’s talent and target share make him a worthy first-round pick.
CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys WR) – Yahoo ADP 1.06
CeeDee Lamb has emerged as a top wide receiver with a proven quarterback in Dak Prescott. With a questionable defense and running back corps, the Cowboys may lean heavily on their passing game, increasing Lamb’s value. The addition of George Pickens could open up the underneath game, allowing Lamb to accumulate efficient catches.
Lamb’s connection with Prescott has been a key factor in his success. His ability to make plays in both the short and deep passing game makes him a versatile threat. In an offense that could lead the league in pass attempts, Lamb’s potential is immense.
“Lamb has a proven, productive quarterback under center… They could push to lead the NFL in pass attempts and the presence of George Pickens will open up the underneath game for Lamb to pile up efficient catches.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Lamb’s situation and his proven production make him a strong pick in the first round.
Derrick Henry (Ravens RB) – Yahoo ADP 1.07
Derrick Henry, now with the Ravens, is fighting against Father Time. Even with potential declines in explosive rushing, he remains a touchdown machine as the lead back in one of the league’s best offenses. His goal-line presence and volume make him a valuable fantasy asset.
Henry’s move to Baltimore could extend his fantasy relevance. The Ravens’ strong offensive line and commitment to the run make him a reliable option for carries and touchdowns.
“Derrick Henry is back to fight the good fight against Father Time. Even if he declines as an explosive rusher, he’s still a great bet for double-digit touchdowns as the lead back on one of the best offenses in football.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Drafting Henry is a bet on his ability to continue producing in a favorable situation, even as he ages.
Christian McCaffrey (49ers RB) – Yahoo ADP 1.08
Christian McCaffrey’s primary concern is health. When healthy, he dominates the running back landscape. His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver makes him an elite fantasy option, but injuries have been a recurring issue.
McCaffrey’s impact on the 49ers’ offense is undeniable. His versatility and playmaking ability make him a focal point of their attack. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to finish as the top-scoring running back in fantasy football.
“The way this goes wrong for Christian McCaffrey is obvious: Injuries… When he plays, CMC laps the field at running back.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Drafting McCaffrey is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. If he stays healthy, he can carry your team to a championship.
Nico Collins (Texans WR) – Yahoo ADP 1.09
Nico Collins has emerged as an elite wide receiver. With the potential to lead the NFL in targets, Collins is the clear alpha in the Texans’ receiving corps. His ability to play both outside and on the line of scrimmage makes him a versatile threat.
Collins has developed a strong connection with his quarterback, making him a reliable target in the Texans’ offense. His size, speed, and route-running ability make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses.
“Elite wide receiver in real life and no worse than the fifth-best player at the position… Collins has a chance to lead the NFL in targets this season.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Collins is a high-upside pick who could outperform his ADP and become a fantasy star.
Amon-Ra St. Brown (Lions WR) – Yahoo ADP 1.10
Amon-Ra St. Brown faces some environmental concerns with changes in the Lions’ coaching staff and potential offensive line issues. However, his consistent target share and improvement each season make him a safe pick. St. Brown’s reliability and rapport with Jared Goff make him a valuable fantasy asset.
St. Brown has consistently been a top performer in PPR formats, thanks to his high target volume and reliable hands. His ability to gain yards after the catch makes him a threat every time he touches the ball.
“Similar to Gibbs, there are some concerns about the environment… However, St. Brown is a safe target for Jared Goff and keeps getting better every season… I’m not full-fading St. Brown.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Despite the concerns, St. Brown’s consistent production makes him a solid pick in the first round.
Ashton Jeanty (Raiders RB) – Yahoo ADP 1.11
Ashton Jeanty faces challenges with the Raiders’ offensive line and potential for pass-heavy game scripts. However, volume and goal-line work can make him a fantasy asset. His potential to get plenty of carries and score touchdowns gives him a path to fantasy relevance.
Jeanty’s situation requires optimism about his ability to overcome the Raiders’ offensive struggles. If he can secure a significant workload, he has the potential to be a valuable fantasy contributor.
“There are holes in Jeanty’s profile, considering the Raiders’ offensive line is a mid-unit at best… However, we’ve seen one of the biggest running back busts get by on volume and goal-line work… Jeanty will be much better than this.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Drafting Jeanty is a bet on his potential to overcome a difficult situation and produce valuable fantasy points.
Malik Nabers (Giants WR) – Yahoo ADP 1.12
Malik Nabers joins a list of receivers poised for high target shares. Despite Russell Wilson’s flaws, Nabers should benefit from catchable deep targets. His potential to command a large percentage of the Giants’ targets makes him an intriguing first-round pick.
Nabers has the potential to be a game-changer for the Giants’ offense. His speed, route-running ability, and strong hands make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses.
“Nabers joins guys like Tyreek Hill, Davante Adams and A.J. Brown to see at least 30% of their team’s targets in a year… For all of Russell Wilson’s flaws, he will deliver more catchable deep targets to Nabers.” – Matt Harmon, Yahoo Sports
Nabers is a high-upside pick who could quickly become a top fantasy receiver.
Conclusion
Navigating the first round of your fantasy football draft requires careful consideration of each player’s potential, risks, and situation. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of players like Ja’Marr Chase, Bijan Robinson, and CeeDee Lamb, you can make informed decisions that set your team up for success. Staying informed and adapting your strategy based on the latest news and ADP data is crucial for dominating your league.
Key takeaways from this analysis include:
- Prioritize players with high target shares and proven track records.
- Consider the offensive environment and potential for growth.
- Weigh the risks associated with injuries and workload.
- Adapt your strategy based on ADP and the flow of the draft.
With these insights, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your first-round pick and build a championship-caliber fantasy football team. Good luck, and may your draft be filled with value and success! For more in-depth analysis and updates, stay tuned to FYM News, your reliable source for fantasy football insights and strategy.
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