Mock Draft! + A Final Farewell

Summary:

Mock Draft Preview 00:00

• The hosts are enthusiastic about the mock draft and share updates about their free rankings on the website.
• The hosts are gearing up for a mock draft episode, with anticipation of interruptions during the draft.

“Mock draft episode today, sure to be interrupted […] The hosts discuss the ultimate draft kit release and promotions for early orders.”

• Jason is absent, enjoying a break before the draft kit release in 11 days.

Fond Farewell to David Johnson 05:06

• The hosts pay tribute to David Johnson, who officially retired from the NFL after a notable career.

Farewell to David Johnson 05:06

• They reminisce about Johnson’s impactful seasons in fantasy football, including his standout performances and special place in the show’s history.
• The hosts bid farewell to David Johnson as he officially retires from the NFL after a career filled with highs and lows.

“David Johnson has officially retired from the NFL after […] 2016, the number one running back in fantasy.”

• Recalling Johnson’s impactful fantasy seasons, especially his standout 2016 year, where he was a fantasy football star.

Insights from NFL Schedule Release 07:43

• Despite injury setbacks, Johnson provided much fantasy goodness during his career.

“We’ll bid you. It went quickly… The man, he gave us some fantasy goodness.”

• The hosts reflect on the NFL schedule release, highlighting interesting matchups and implications for fantasy football.

Schedule Release Insights 07:50

• They discuss the scheduling of bye weeks, especially focusing on the impact of having six teams on bye in certain weeks.
• The hosts discuss the recent NFL schedule release, finding intriguing insights like the advantageous start for Jared Goff and the Detroit Lions.
• Highlighting the strategic opportunities presented by the scheduling, including key matchups and the implications for fantasy football drafts.
• Mentioning the unique scenarios like weeks with a significant number of teams on bye that can impact fantasy strategy.

“The hosts analyze the NFL schedule, discussing interesting matchups and implications for fantasy football […] How do we have so week seven, the Cowboys and the Bears. Yeah.”

Mock Draft Insights 10:02

• Strength of schedule is a crucial factor when making fantasy football decisions, especially during bye weeks, where having players on a bye could influence your lineup strategy.

Strategy in Fantasy Football Drafting 10:02

• Considering the bye weeks of players when drafting can provide flexibility in pivoting based on matchups.
• Utilizing tools like the UDK to analyze strength of schedule can provide valuable insights based on data from previous seasons, helping shape draft picks and roster management.
• Utilizing strength of schedule tools can aid in making informed decisions on player selection.
• Updating data throughout the season to reflect changes in player performance is crucial for successful drafting.
• Taking into account player updates, like Najee Harris improving his fitness regimen, can be a significant consideration for draft selections, especially when assessing players like Harris in pivotal career moments.

“So all of our strength of schedule, tool, information, you can break that down in the UDK… and there’s a lot of turnover and those things get updated throughout the year as well.”

Unlock Exclusive Tools + Bonus Episode

Join the FootClan

Player Performance and Draft Decisions 10:34

The other side of the coin is your opponent might not have a buy and you might have a buy with those players. So all of our strength of schedule, tool, information, you can break that down in the UDK.

Najee Harris‘s Transformation and Career Outlook 10:34

• Reports of Najee Harris focusing on improving his physical condition for the upcoming season suggest a dedication to enhancing performance.
• Najee Harris‘s dedication to enhancing his physical condition highlights the importance players place on preparation for a successful season, potentially impacting fantasy football strategies.
• The significance of players like Najee Harris making efforts to improve aspects of their game before crucial seasons, such as contract years, can impact fantasy football decisions.
• Analyzing how these changes may affect players, especially those like Harris with high upside but also elevated risk, can be vital in drafting decisions and predicting player performance over the season.

“The Pittsburgh Post Gazette reports Najee Harris has changed his diet and his workout routine to get him into the best shape of his life before the 2024 season.”

Najee Harris‘s Career and Fantasy Football Impact 11:11

• Najee Harris‘s upcoming season is pivotal as his performance could influence his future in the league.
• Observations from camp and insights into players’ offseason improvements, like Harris’s, contribute to evaluating their potential fantasy value and long-term career trajectories.

Good news, Mike. The Pittsburgh Post Gazette reports Najee Harris has changed his diet and his workout routine to get him into the best shape of his life before the 2024 season.

Arthur Smith’s Innovative Offense and Player Reception 12:39

• Decisions around selecting Najee Harris in fantasy drafts may depend on his preseason form and potential competition in the team.

“If Najee Harris has a good season, I think the outcome is he get a mid-level contract… If he has a bad season, I mean, it’s AJ Dillon for life.”

• Feedback from Steelers’ players praising Arthur Smith’s offense sheds light on how coaching philosophies can impact player performance and enthusiasm within a team, potentially translating to fantasy football success.

Insights from Steelers Camp and Player Opinions 12:37

• Recognizing the positive reception of Smith’s schemes emphasizes the significance of understanding coaching dynamics and offensive strategies when evaluating players’ potential fantasy value and growth opportunities.
• Positive feedback from players regarding Arthur Smith’s offensive strategies in the Steelers’ camp showcases the enthusiasm surrounding the team’s approach.

What I hear coming out of Steelers camp is that players absolutely love Arthur Smith’s offense. One told me that it is unreal.

• Players’ endorsements of the innovative nature of the offense point towards potential unpredictability and success under the new system.

Analysis of Running Back and Wide Receiver Picks 18:09

• The speaker feels positive about selecting a wide receiver but expresses concern about choosing a running back due to the quick depletion of the running back tier, particularly with notable players already off the board.

Draft Strategy Analysis 18:02

• The dilemma between running backs and receivers is highlighted, emphasizing the noticeable shift towards prioritizing wide receivers in the draft.
• The analyst weighs the pros and cons of prioritizing wide receivers or running backs based on the draft’s progression, highlighting the tough decisions prompted by evolving player availability.
• Quote: > “I don’t think he’s in the wrong spot. I mean, that puts him at nine, and he’s ranked in my rankings at nine. That wide receiver, it’s so tough.”
• The analyst acknowledges the uncertainty among running backs, emphasizing the importance of assessing the remaining options against the drafted players.

Evaluating Picks and Draft Strategy 19:30

• “The priority on wide receivers might have happened due to the competitiveness among running backs.”
• The speaker assesses the rationale behind choosing certain players over others, considering factors like rankings and draft position for both running backs and wide receivers.

“Harrison over Adams, I’m cool with that. Harrison over London, fine with that. Olavé, yeah, not a big deal.”

Evaluating Player Options 21:46

• They deliberate on opting for a safer pick versus selecting riskier players early in the draft, discussing the balance between potential and consistency.
• The analyst shares their strategic player selection process, opting for Travis Etienne over Devon Achane due to stability concerns and potential disappointment associated with the latter.
• Quote: > “I think they are both riskier players at this point. I think you could take a safer pick because there’s a chance that Nico had the best year of his career.”

Tight End Options and Strategic Decisions 22:47

• The significant risk attached to Achane’s selection contrasts with the excitement surrounding his potential for the upcoming season.
• “The risk on Achane is outrageous, but not picking him is equally risky.”
• Contemplation shifts towards considering tight end options in the third round, including notable players like Travis Kelsey and analyzing the depth of the tight end position in the draft.

“I went Breece Hall and Travis Etienne with my first two picks, opting for Etienne over the more volatile Devon Achane.”

• The speaker discusses comparative rankings and confidence in player usage, expressing a preference for Rashad White over Derrick Henry due to the former’s perceived upside and youth.

Draft Strategy and Analysis of Player Picks 26:37

• Challenges arise when deciding between players like Rashad White and Kenneth Walker, balancing past performance with potential future improvement.
• The selection process involves evaluating player usage and confidence in their performance.

“I just like right and Rashad White. Yeah, yeah, partners in crime.”

Get the 2026 Ultimate Draft Kit!

Preorder the 2026 UDK

Evaluating Wide Receiver Options 30:24

• The decision-making process involves assessing factors like player depth and team dynamics.
• Drafting involves weighing current player performance and potential future success.
• The speaker deliberates on wide receiver picks, considering DK Metcalf as a strong choice but also eyeing Calvin Ridley, despite the latter’s lower current ADP, emphasizing differences in personal rankings versus general perception.

“I tried to draft him last year, would have been incredible, but I just like right now Rashad White.”

• They weigh the risks and rewards of different players, factoring in projections and potential outlier performances.

Evaluating Potential Picks in the Draft 28:17

• Considering available players and their positions.

“You have Higgins higher. Yeah, yeah, I do have. I’ve got them very close.”

• Strategizing based on the picks made by other teams.

Running Back Selections and Value Picks 32:42

• Assessing the overall draft board to make informed decisions.
• Decision-making in selecting running backs involves considering positional scarcity and perceived value in each round, leading to choices like James Cook and Kenneth Walker, perceived as potential standout picks at their respective draft positions.

“Looking at what’s happening right now, Trey McBride and Mark Andrews are both still there. It’s pretty appealing to go after one of them.”

Considerations for Quarterback and Tight End Picks 28:47

• The speaker reacts to surprising picks like Aaron Jones in later rounds and shares differing perspectives on his potential future performance.
• Deliberating between selecting multiple quarterbacks.

“Kenneth Walker is a great pick there. Thank you so impressed with you.”

Draft strategy and player analysis 35:05

• Mike selects Rashi Rice as his sixth-round pick, followed by Montgomery Ingram as his tight end.
• The discussion revolves around drafting Deandre Swift and the gamble taken on Kyler Murray.

Draft Strategy and Player Evaluation 35:05

• Mike selects Rashi Rice as the sixth pick followed by Montgomery Ingram as his tight end three.
• Christian Kirk is selected due to perceived undervaluation and track record, over other available wide receivers like Gabe Davis and Brian Thomas.
• Christian Kirk is chosen by the narrator due to his undervalued potential compared to other available players like Gabe Davis and Brian Thomas.
• Discord between the hosts emerges as they debate the value of Christian Kirk and Brian Thomas, with differing projections for the players’ fantasy points.
• Despite disagreement on player value, the narrator and someone else engage in a water bet to support their differing player picks.
• Mike faces criticism for choosing Kirk over Calvin Ridley, with his pick receiving strong disapproval from his co-hosts.

“Christian Kirk is not the answer… When you have the chance for the stack, don’t throw it away for Christian Kirk.”

Wide Receiver and Running Back Analysis 40:58

“Christian Kirk what a stupid pick. And Kyle Murray goes after Calvin Ridley and he loses out.”

• The selection process focuses on finding wide receivers with upside potential and names like Hollywood Brown and Terry McLaurin are discussed.

Wide receiver and running back considerations 41:01

• Tony Pollard is highlighted for his improved performance in the latter half of the previous season despite initial disappointments.
• The focus shifts to evaluating wide receivers for potential upside, mentioning players like Hollywood Brown, Terry McLaurin, and Deontay Johnson.
• Various rookie options are discussed such as Ladd McConkey and Keon Coleman for their opportunities.

“Most are sitting… but I would narrow it down to Tony Pollard who got the money from Tennessee despite the massive sadness that he caused for the fantasy football community.”

Diverging Opinions on Players 42:49

• Tony Pollard and Zemeer White are highlighted as intriguing running back options, with divergent opinions on White’s potential impact.
• The narrator and Jason have contrasting opinions on Zamir White for the Las Vegas Raiders, with the narrator being more supportive of White due to his expected workload.

“Yeah that’s Buffalo. All those guys are having a level of interest to me.”

Unlock Exclusive Tools + Bonus Episode

Join the FootClan

Draft Strategy Considerations 43:43

• The unpredictability around running back Zemir White raises concerns as to whether he will be a reliable workhorse in fantasy football lineups.

Evaluating Running Back Zamir White 43:43

• It’s crucial to assess a player’s performance on the field before making definitive judgments about their value and potential impact on your team’s success.

“We don’t know yet if Zemir White is good or bad. I don’t think we’ve seen enough of him on the field to make an assessment.”

Value Picks Discussion 44:34

• There is uncertainty around Zemir White’s potential as a running back, with debates on whether he is good or bad due to limited on-field exposure for assessment.
• The strategy of avoiding drafting players where uncertainty exists about their performance or potential is recommended to mitigate risk.
• Selecting Zemir White in the seventh round is viewed as a favorable move for securing a starting running back at good value.
• The draft saw a quick succession of running backs being picked, indicating the importance of making informed decisions during the selection process.
• Opting to draft Zemir White due to perceived value as a starting running back in the seventh round could be a strategic move if he proves himself on the field.

“I’m going to take Zemir White in the seventh. I think that’s a pretty good value for a starting running back.”

Wide Receiver Selections and Surprises 44:58

Zemir White, I’m going to take him in the seventh. I think that’s a pretty good value for a starting running back.

Draft Strategy Considerations 44:30

• The unexpected appearance of Hollywood Brown in the draft prompts a discussion about the varying perceptions and rankings of players.
• The drafting of lesser-known players like Jaden Reed leads to strategic decisions based on personal rankings and preferences.
• Selecting players based on value and potential impact can be crucial in making effective draft decisions in fantasy football.
• Analyzing the available players in each round to optimize team composition and performance is key.

“This is the first time I’ve ever seen Hollywood Brown’s name in there. Is Hollywood on sleep? Do you see this? Wait, they officially did it. Look at 7:10, Hollywood Brown goes.”

Rookie Player Potential Evaluation 46:10

• Balancing risk and reward by taking calculated chances on emerging talent or potentially impactful players is part of a successful draft strategy.

Let’s find out, shall we? Oh my God. Let’s run it back, baby.

• Opting for rookie Keon Coleman showcases a willingness to take calculated risks based on potential outcomes and the player’s role within their NFL team.

Assessing Rookie Wide Receiver Keon Coleman 46:10

• Balancing the selection of rookies with established players involves considering their expected contribution and possible breakout performances.
• Choosing rookie Keon Coleman from Buffalo highlights the strategy of betting on the potential of young players to make a significant impact.
• Viewing Coleman as a potential top wide receiver for his team demonstrates an approach that values upside and breakout potential in late-round picks.

“I’m going to take Keon Coleman. I will take the rookie from Buffalo. What if Coleman is the number one wide receiver for Buffalo? If that hits, that’s like just a monster pick in the eighth, a great pick.”

Late-Round Player Strategy 47:50

• The decision to choose Jonathan Brooks in the ninth round reflects a strategic move to prioritize upside potential over safer but less impactful options.
• The decision to draft Coleman involves balancing risk and reward, as his performance could be a game-changer if he emerges as a prominent player.
• Assessing the running back landscape and team requirements guides the selection of players like Brooks as a speculative addition to the roster.

I’m going to take Keon Coleman… I’m going to take the risk right here on the rookie.

Evaluation of Tight End David Njoku 47:08

“I’m going to take Jonathan Brooks, a shot in the ninth round instead of going with a committee back that’s never going to crack the roster.”

Get the 2026 Ultimate Draft Kit!

Preorder the 2026 UDK

Draft Strategy – Player Selection 52:15

Mock Draft Strategies 52:15

• The decision-making process during a mock draft involves weighing the value of available players. This scenario included considering quarterbacks like Herbert and Jared Goff before opting for Jaïk Daniels based on the draft list.
• Deciding between players like Jared Goff and Jain Daniels can be pivotal for the team’s composition in fantasy football.
• Quote: > “I’m taking Jaïk Daniels. Oh baby. Oh baby.”

Flexibility and Assessment of Rookie Picks 52:30

I’m going to take Jain Daniels. Oh baby. Oh baby.

Roster Selection and Strategies 52:40

• The draft strategy involved a mixture of established players and rookies, highlighting a willingness to take risks with Lee and Spears. This approach demonstrates a balanced strategy where assessing rookie performances early in the season is key.
• Making consecutive picks like Xavier Lee and others allows for strategic team-building based on available players.
• Quote: > “I’m going to take Xavier Lee gets. So back to back Panthers.”
• Being mindful of potential outcomes and leveraging the waiver wire for optimization is a key strategy in fantasy football.

Waiver Wire Strategy and Player Evaluation 53:04

I could take a player like Ty Chandler and he could be more involved in week one, and if not, I could dump him.

Drafting Tactics and Player Analysis 54:32

• The mention of the waiver wire strategy emphasizes the importance of adaptability in fantasy football. By considering potential quick substitutions like Ty Chandler or Tyler Lockett, the focus is on maximizing early-season performance.
• Opting for rookies towards the end of the draft can present the opportunity for unexpected breakout performances.
• Quote: > “I want to see if I can catch lightning in a bottle for the first couple of weeks.”

Rookie Player Evaluation and Drop Strategy 54:59

• Evaluating players like Tyler Lockett based on past performances and current team dynamics can impact draft decisions.

I’m going to go with the double rookies at the end and see if one of them pops off in the beginning.

• Assessing the potential of a player like Quinton Johnson, who had a disappointing season previously, illustrates the gamble involved in fantasy drafts. The decision-making process focuses on the risk-reward factor of selecting rookies with uncertain performance levels.

Player Evaluation and Future Predictions 54:45

• Quote: > “This player last year was drafted to be a number one wide receiver. He was awful.”
• Reflecting on past performances of certain players, like Quinton Johnson, plays a significant role in shaping future draft strategies based on potential.

Team Composition and Position Depth 55:43

This player last year was drafted to be a number one wide receiver. He was awful.

Draft Analysis and Team Composition 55:43

• Evaluating team composition after the draft shows a balanced approach, recognizing the depth in certain positions while acknowledging potential weaknesses in others. This evaluation highlights the need for ongoing player assessment and readiness for adjustments post-week one.
• Constructing a balanced roster with a mix of running backs, receivers, and solid options at quarterback and tight end is pivotal for success in fantasy football.
• Quote: > “My team looks like this… feels a little thin to me.”

Contingency Planning and Backup Strategy 56:46

I had a couple of running backs, my team looks like this. Breece Hall, Travis E. T. N., James Cook, Jonathan Brooks.