Hello, fantasy football friends! Welcome to another week of the First Seed Fantasy newsletter, something I plan to hit your inboxes with every week with some fantasy football thoughts.

Please feel free to reply with comments, advice requests, section suggestions - anything! I’ll do my best to help you out where I can.

Let’s talk some fantasy football!

In this newsletter:
- Dalvin Cook & Ezekiel Elliott find their teams
- Diving into the Hero RB draft strategy
- Ideas to spice up your league
- Preseason week 1 standouts

📰 Let’s Talk Some News

What kind of newsletter would this be if I didn’t cover some news in the NFL? And what kind of fantasy football newsletter would this be if I didn’t relate those news to fantasy football? Let’s talk some news.

The two big ones…

✈️ Dalvin Cook signs with the New York Jets

And then the morning after, Breece Hall comes off the PUP list for the Jets as well! But let’s talk Dalvin Cook joining this Jets offense and how I think things shake out. I think the Jets made this heavy push for Cook to allow Hall to take his time returning from his knee injury, so I expect a heavy dosage of Cook in the first half of this season.

As for fantasy rankings - Breece Hall falls from RB18 to RB24 in my rankings, and Dalvin Cook is now the RB31. Truthfully, this becomes a backfield I’ll most likely be staying away from. There will be some great games from both Cook and Hall, but my fear is not knowing when those weeks will be.

🥣 Ezekiel Elliott signs with the New England Patriots

Fear not, Rhamondre Stephenson fans, I think this things will all be fine. Stevenson holds, and will continue to hold, the lead RB position in New England, still making him a strong candidate for an early round pick. While he scored five rushing TDs last season, his path to high-end success lies in his expected involvement in the Patriots' passing game.

With a current ADP of RB9, Stevenson's value might drop a slight bit, but I still have him ranked now at RB11. Meanwhile, Elliott is poised for a jump in ADP and ranks but I think still remains a late round RB. I expect short yardage usage of Elliott but this will still be Stevenson’s backfield.

Other things to check out:
- Abusing Draft Rankings is updated for the weekend
- A new 10-team mock draft video on our YouTube
- Mock draft on Rival Fantasy and use code FIRSTSEED at signup

🦸‍♂️ Draft Strategy Deep Dive - Hero RB

Every week leading up to the start of the NFL season I’m planning on diving into a different fantasy football draft strategy - this week I talk about Hero RB.

🏈 Why Hero RB?

In today's fantasy landscape, point-per-reception (PPR) format leagues, the value of quarterbacks, wide receivers, and pass-catching running backs has soared. Elite wideouts and versatile backs who thrive in the passing game are essential for success. The Hero RB approach lets you snag high-impact wide receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jaylen Waddle while also securing a star running back like Christian McCaffrey or Austin Ekeler.

🏈 Maximizing RB Depth

While the Hero RB strategy prioritizes strong wide receivers early, it doesn't forsake running back depth. The strategy acknowledges that late-round running backs can offer significant value. For example, players like Tony Pollard (2022 RB7), Rhamondre Stevenson (2022 RB9) and Jamaal Williams (2022 RB15) were drafted after the seventh round in 2022 and delivered incredible fantasy production. Additionally, names like Jerick McKinnon (2022 RB20) and Samaje Perine (2022 RB30) went largely undrafted, presenting potential hidden gems.

🏈 The Hero RB Method Unveiled

The essence of the Hero RB strategy lies in selecting one early-round running back as your anchor and then concentrating on wide receivers and tight ends in the subsequent rounds. This approach is reminiscent of the Zero RB strategy but offers an added dimension. By choosing an every-down "workhorse" running back, you tap into the potential for consistent volume and legendary fantasy performances.

🌶️ Ways to Spice Your Fantasy League

Last week we discussed rule changes to discuss with your fantasy league. This week I'd like to mention a few more things that could add some spice to your fantasy league!

🏈 League Power Rankings

Picture this: each week, your league morphs into a fierce battle royale where teams are ranked based on their performance. It's like your league has its own fantasy sports show! Assign points for wins, total points scored, or any other relevant stats. The best part? Throw in some bonus points or rewards for the top-ranked teams. Suddenly, every matchup matters more, and the race to the top becomes a thrilling saga. Who knew power rankings could make your league feel like a sports showdown?

🏈 Weekly Challenges or Side Bets

Spice up your league dynamics by introducing weekly challenges or side bets. Imagine challenging your fellow managers to make bold predictions, like "Which wide receiver will score the most touchdowns?" or "Which rookie running back will rush for the most yards?" Winners earn extra points or even playful rewards. Whether it's predicting stats, guessing surprise performers, or wagering on crazy prop bets, these challenges keep the competition fresh and your league buzzing with energy.

🏈 Wildcard Trade Week

Ever thought about shaking up the trade game? Designate a specific week as "Wildcard Trade Week." During this time, managers can make offbeat, unconventional trades that wouldn't typically pass muster. Swap players for draft picks, trade entire starting lineups, or even exchange a player for a quirky reward like a pizza dinner. It's like trading meets improvisation! This fun twist encourages managers to get creative and think outside the fantasy box.

🏈 Manager Spotlight

Turn the spotlight onto one manager each week. They become the star of the show as they share insights, predictions, and analysis about their team's upcoming matchup. It's like having your very own fantasy pundit! This not only fosters camaraderie and interaction among league members but also allows everyone to understand the strategy behind their peers' decisions. Plus, it's a chance for that manager to shine or, in the spirit of friendly competition, take a bit of lighthearted ribbing.

Let me know if you use any of these currently or are thinking about adding them! I’d love to know how your league thinks about them.

🤩 Preseason Week 1 Standouts

Week 1 of the NFL preseason came and went last week. Our first taste of NFL football on TV this season and the start of many hype trains. Let’s dive in to some of that newly found hype and look at some preseason week 1 standouts!

🌟 Tank Dell - WR, Houston Texans

5 Receptions, 65 Yards, 1 TD

Tank Dell emerged as a force, leading in both snaps (11) and routes run (7) among starters. His performance was more than just impressive statistics; he secured an incredible circus catch for a touchdown from Davis Mills. If Dell's strong showing continues, he could claim a pivotal role within the Texans' offensive scheme.

🌟 Jahan Dotson - WR, Washington Commanders

2 Receptions, 30 Yards, 1 TD

Jahan Dotson seized the spotlight among Washington Commanders' wide receivers, recording the most snaps (18) with the starting unit. His prowess was evident as he maneuvered a red-zone corner route, eluding defenders for a crucial score. Alongside Terry McLaurin, Dotson is poised to be a cornerstone of the Commanders' aerial attack.

🌟 Zamir White - RB, Las Vegas Raiders

43 Rushing Yards, 1 TD

Zamir White's performance provided a glimpse into his role as Josh Jacobs' backup. Displaying his mettle as the primary back among starters, White tallied 13 carries for 43 yards. Though the numbers may not dazzle, White's role could substantially grow should uncertainties around Jacobs' contract persist.

🌟 DJ Moore - WR, Chicago Bears

1 Reception, 62 Yards, 1 TD

In a single play, DJ Moore showcased the explosiveness that makes him a standout. Despite receiving just one target – a screen pass – Moore's ability to turn the ordinary into something extraordinary was evident. While his target volume might not be astronomical, Chicago's commitment to inventive plays could make Moore a dynamic asset.

🌟 Khalil Herbert - RB, Chicago Bears

71 Total Yards, 1 TD

Khalil Herbert stamped his authority as the prime running back option for the Bears. Commanding 100% of snaps with Justin Fields, Herbert's standout moment materialized in a spectacular 56-yard touchdown sprint from a screen pass. His dynamic speed and elusiveness set him apart, solidifying his lead role within Chicago's backfield ensemble.