When Should I Draft a Defense in Fantasy Football? And Why Does My Cat Judge My Lineup Choices?

Fantasy football is a game of strategy, patience, and sometimes, pure luck. One of the most debated topics among fantasy managers is when to draft a defense. Should you prioritize it early, or wait until the later rounds? The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on various factors, including league settings, scoring systems, and your overall draft strategy. Let’s dive into the intricacies of drafting a defense in fantasy football and explore why your cat might be silently judging your every move.

The Case for Drafting a Defense Early

1. Elite Defenses Can Be Game-Changers

Some defenses, like the 2019 Patriots or the 2020 Steelers, are so dominant that they can single-handedly win you weeks. These elite units often score double-digit points consistently, thanks to their ability to generate turnovers, sacks, and even defensive touchdowns. If you believe a particular defense has the potential to be a weekly difference-maker, it might be worth grabbing them in the middle rounds.

2. Streaming Isn’t Always Reliable

Many fantasy managers advocate for streaming defenses—picking up a new defense each week based on matchups. While this strategy can work, it’s not foolproof. If you miss out on the top streaming options, you could be stuck with a defense that scores negative points. Drafting a reliable defense early eliminates this uncertainty.

3. Peace of Mind

Having a set-it-and-forget-it defense allows you to focus on other positions during the season. You won’t need to spend time each week scouring the waiver wire for a decent matchup. This can be especially valuable in deeper leagues where the waiver wire is thin.

The Case for Waiting Until the Late Rounds

1. Defenses Are Unpredictable

Even the best defenses can have off weeks or face tough matchups. Injuries, changes in coaching, and shifts in team dynamics can all impact a defense’s performance. Drafting a defense early doesn’t guarantee consistent production, making it a risky investment.

2. Opportunity Cost

Every pick in your draft is valuable. If you draft a defense in the middle rounds, you’re passing up on potential breakout players at other positions. Running backs, wide receivers, and even tight ends have higher upside and can contribute more to your team’s success.

3. Streaming Can Be Effective

If you’re willing to put in the work, streaming defenses can yield great results. By targeting defenses with favorable matchups each week, you can often outperform managers who drafted a defense early. This strategy requires research and flexibility, but it can pay off in the long run.

Factors to Consider When Drafting a Defense

1. League Scoring Settings

Some leagues heavily reward defenses for sacks, turnovers, and touchdowns, while others penalize them for points allowed. Understanding your league’s scoring system is crucial when deciding how much value to place on a defense.

2. Team Matchups

Look at a defense’s schedule before drafting them. A defense that faces weak offenses early in the season can provide a strong start to your fantasy campaign. Conversely, a defense with a brutal schedule might not be worth the investment.

3. Bye Weeks

Don’t forget to check your defense’s bye week. If it coincides with the bye weeks of several of your key players, you might find yourself in a tough spot. Planning ahead can save you headaches later in the season.

The Middle Ground: Targeting Mid-Tier Defenses

If you’re not sold on drafting an elite defense early but also don’t want to wait until the last round, consider targeting a mid-tier defense with upside. These defenses might not be as consistent as the top units, but they have the potential to outperform their draft position. Look for defenses with strong pass rushes, playmakers in the secondary, and favorable schedules.

Why Does My Cat Judge My Lineup Choices?

While this might seem unrelated, your cat’s judgmental stare could be a metaphor for the pressure fantasy managers feel when making lineup decisions. Just like your cat silently critiques your every move, your league mates are watching your draft picks and lineup choices. Drafting a defense is just one of many decisions that will be scrutinized throughout the season. Embrace the pressure, trust your instincts, and remember—your cat probably doesn’t care about your fantasy team as much as you think.

Related Q&A

Q: Should I draft a kicker before a defense?
A: It depends on your league settings and personal strategy. Both positions are typically drafted in the later rounds, but some managers prefer securing a top-tier defense before a kicker due to the higher potential for consistent scoring.

Q: Can I win my league without drafting a defense early?
A: Absolutely! Many successful fantasy managers prioritize skill positions early and stream defenses throughout the season. It’s all about finding the right balance for your team.

Q: What’s the latest round I should draft a defense?
A: Most managers draft a defense in the second-to-last or last round. However, if you see a defense with significant upside still available in the middle rounds, it might be worth grabbing them earlier.

Q: Why do some defenses score negative points?
A: Defenses can lose points if they allow a high number of points or yards. Some leagues also penalize defenses for missed tackles or blown coverages. Always check your league’s scoring settings to understand how defenses are evaluated.

Q: Is it worth holding two defenses on my roster?
A: Generally, no. Rostering two defenses takes up a valuable bench spot that could be used for a high-upside skill player. However, if you have an elite defense with a tough matchup and a strong streaming option available, it might be worth it for that week.