sports
RBs Dominate Early in Fantasy Football Marathon Mock Draft
An annual fantasy football mock draft revealed a trend of prioritizing running backs early on. The event saw a delay in quarterback selections, with most teams waiting to pick them.
9/12/2026, 3:01:37 AM
In a recent fantasy football marathon organized by ESPN Top, participants in a 10-team mock draft showcased a clear preference for running backs, with 13 of the first 20 selections being top-tier ball carriers. This event, which is a highlight of the fantasy football season, saw managers strategizing on how to optimize their teams with a wide array of player choices.
The draft highlighted an interesting pattern: while running backs were picked at a rapid pace early in the draft, quarterbacks were largely overlooked until later rounds. This approach reflects a broader trend in fantasy football where teams are recognizing the value of securing effective running backs first before addressing other positions.
The mock draft activity serves as a persuasive preview of upcoming fantasy drafts, giving participants insight into emerging strategies and player values. As the fantasy football season approaches, the choices made during this mock draft may influence how real teams prioritize their player selections.
With such a concentration on running backs among the early picks, fantasy managers might find themselves adapting their strategies for future drafts, potentially reconsidering their own rankings of top players. The success of this event underscores the importance of strategy in fantasy football, allowing managers to further hone their skills and understand the dynamics of player values as they prepare for the competitive season ahead.
As the fantasy lineup continues to evolve, participants are likely to keep an eye on real NFL performances, which will impact players’ stock in the fantasy world. In anticipation of league drafts, this mock draft serves as a critical tool for players to gauge trends and make informed decisions as the 2026 fantasy football season looms.