So, you’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of fantasy football this year — congratulations, you brave soul! There is one of two reasons why someone from Wellesley would join a league. The first reason has to be a family league that you have been pressured into joining. The second is that you joined a league in order to impress some MIT frat guy. Instead of just picking players for your team based on how hot they are (which is something my sister does), there might be a better solution. As someone who watched too much pre-season football at the end of the summer I want to offer a few pointers/picks that could save you from enduring a whole season at the bottom of the standings. 

Let’s dive into the quarterbacks, aka the brain of your fantasy team. Picture that friend who’s always actually planning the group trips, finding the best deals and somehow never forgets the essentials like sunscreen and chargers. Your quarterback needs to be that person. Instead of going for Patrick Mahomes (because let’s face it, someone already asked him), why not consider Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals? Burrow is like that friend who quietly crushes everything — and who doesn’t love them some Joe Shiesty. He’s got a laser arm, a calm demeanor, and a stacked offense that makes him a great pick. Then there’s Josh Allen from the Buffalo Bills, who’s basically the human equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. He can pass, he can run, and he’s probably the guy you call when your remote is acting up. He’s reliable, versatile, and is also dating Hallie Steinfeld (plus five points in my eyes). And don’t forget Jalen Hurts from the Eagles, who’s like the overachiever in your study group who somehow manages to be chill and get everything done. He’s got the arm, the legs and a solid team, making him a top pick for your fantasy squad.

Next up are the running backs, the workhorses of your fantasy lineup. Think of them as that one friend who’s always prepared for anything, or ready to catch anything. Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers is the fantasy football equivalent of finding out your final exam is an open book. If he’s on the field, he’s racking up points faster than you can say “end zone.” Then there’s Derrick Henry who is an Alabama alum and part of the Tennessee Titans, who’s like the freight train of your fantasy team. Once he gets going, there’s no stopping him. Imagine a snowball rolling down a hill, picking up speed and size — yeah, that’s Derrick Henry in the fourth quarter. But here’s a pro tip: draft him before anyone else does because he is a hot commodity. Finally, we have Bijan Robinson from the Atlanta Falcons. Robinson was the No. 8 pick in the 2023 draft and broke the Falcons rookie record for yards from scrimmage last year. He’s got the skills to make a huge impact right out of the gate, so don’t be shy about taking a chance on him.

Now, let’s talk about wide receivers — these are your big playmakers. They’re like that friend who always knows the best spots in the library. First up is Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings. Jefferson is the friend who makes everything look effortless — whether it’s nailing a presentation or acing a test, he’s just naturally good at everything. Draft him, sit back and watch as the points roll in. Then there’s Ja’Marr Chase from the Cincinnati Bengals, with over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first two seasons and 22 touchdowns in just 29 games. Expect some big plays and highlight-reel moments with this guy on your roster. Finally, we have Amon-Ra St. Brown from the Detroit Lions who is the steady anchor of your team — the one who consistently delivers, even if he doesn’t always get the spotlight. With 196 receptions and nearly 2,000 receiving yards in his first two seasons, he’s the reliable go-to who keeps your fantasy lineup on track week after week. He might not be the flashiest pick, but he’s reliable and could surprise everyone.

And let’s not forget the tight ends — the hidden gems of your fantasy lineup. Picking the right tight end is like finding 20 dollars in your coat pocket from last winter — it doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it’s the best thing to ever happen to you. Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs is the gold standard here, like getting upgraded to first class on a flight you thought was going to be a middle seat in coach. He’s worth every penny and you get Taylor Swift. Then there’s Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens, who has averaged over 800 receiving yards and seven touchdowns per season since 2019. He’s a consistent top-tier tight end, making him a safe bet for your lineup, especially when other options may be less reliable. On the other hand, Darren Waller of the New York Giants could be the comeback story of the year. Despite an injury-riddled 2022 season, he posted back-to-back seasons with over 1,100 receiving yards in 2019 and 2020. With his potential to return to elite form, he offers high upside and reward, but also carries some risk — so draft accordingly.

Of course, every fantasy team needs a few sleeper picks, those under-the-radar players who can turn your season around like that hole-in-the-wall restaurant only the locals know about. Chris Olave of the New Orleans Saints could be your secret weapon. After an impressive rookie season with over 1,000 receiving yards and four touchdowns, he’s poised for an even bigger year, especially with improved quarterback play. James Cook from the Buffalo Bills is another player to watch. With 5.7 yards per carry in his rookie season, he’s shown flashes of brilliance and could become the go-to guy in Buffalo’s backfield, offering plenty of upside. And don’t forget Jordan Addison from the Minnesota Vikings. With Adam Thielen out of the picture, Addison has a clear path to significant targets alongside Justin Jefferson. As a standout at USC with over 1,000 receiving yards in his final season, Addison could quickly become a key player in Minnesota’s offense.

At the end of the day, fantasy football is supposed to be fun, so don’t stress too much — unless there is punishment for last place. Draft smart, trust your gut and remember: win or lose, at least you can be one of those people who participate in fantasy football And who knows? You might even start to enjoy the games that don’t involve a halftime show.

Contact the editors responsible for this article: Julee Sharma ([email protected]) and Finley Tipton ([email protected])