I find one of the most important draft strategies when it comes to Fantasy Football is to know your league. It is important to know your scoring system; however, do not go crazy. I see far too many people draft according to points.  Points are unpredictable and many of these same people forget other important strategies. If there is one important point category to pay attention to, it is points per reception. This can come into play when deciding on a Running Back or Wide Receiver (for example Ray Rice compared to Ryan Grant or Wes Welker versus Dwayne Bowe).

When drafting Running Backs pay attention to how many carries they had the previous season. If they had over 340 be very careful. Look at Michael Turner or Clinton Portis from last year. They both had over 340 carries in 2008 and had down seasons in 2009. When drafting Chris Johnson this year keep in mind that he had 358 carries and he is only 5'11” and 200 lbs. I also find that Running Backs and Wide Receivers seem to start coming into their own in their 3^rd season.

Another important strategy is to know where you go in the draft and the trends of the draft. If Running Backs are going first then draft a Quarterback or a Wide Receiver.  Make the draft work for you.  Always save your last picks for your Defense and Kickers. Many people draft the hot Defense from the year before way too early only to find big disappointment during the season. Defenses are very unpredictable and Kickers are just Kickers.

Keep track of every team. Know what positions they still need and what positions everyone has drafted.

If everyone has a Quarterback by round eight then there is no need to rush into drafting a Quarterback. They will be there later in the draft. Take the best player available.

Rookies – They are exciting and sexy, however stay away until the very late rounds. Very few rookies breakout in their first season. Drafting a rookie Running Back or Quarterback early can kill you for the whole season.

Pay very close attention to players that have a history of injuries. Example Donte Stallworth. People love drafting players with speed and a big-play threat yet forget hamstring injuries. Draft with your head and not your heart. If you are a fan of a low scoring team such as the Bucs, Browns or Dolphins stay away from players on those teams.

Last, however not least – Have your homework done early, if possible before preseason starts. This will make it easier to track injuries, and will also allow you to adjust your cheat sheets.

Have fun and keep your thoughts and draft picks to yourself, because “Loose Lips Can Sink Your Ship”. Just ask my wife!