Fantasy football can be tricky, but understanding ADP makes drafting much easier. If you’ve ever wondered what ADP means and why it’s important, you’re in the right place!
What Is ADP?
ADP stands for Average Draft Position. It tells you when a player is typically picked in fantasy football drafts. If a player has an ADP of 25, that means, on average, they are selected with the 25th pick.
ADP is based on drafts from thousands of leagues. It helps you see where players are valued and when you should think about drafting them.
Why ADP Matters
Fantasy football drafts are all about being smart. ADP helps you make informed decisions. Here’s why knowing ADP is so useful:
- Value Picks: If a player has an ADP of 50 but is available at pick 60, you might be getting a steal.
- Avoid Reaching: If a player’s ADP is 100 and you pick them at 50, you might be giving up too much value.
- Predict Draft Trends: ADP tells you when players are usually picked, so you know if you need to grab someone early.
Whether you’re new to fantasy football or a veteran, checking ADP before your draft is a great move.
How Is ADP Calculated?
ADP is created by analyzing actual fantasy football drafts. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Thousands of drafts take place across different leagues.
- The data is collected and averaged to find out when each player is usually picked.
- This average becomes the player’s ADP.
Because ADP is updated frequently, it reflects the latest trends, injuries, and news.
Using ADP in Your Draft Strategy
ADP is a helpful guide, but don’t follow it blindly. Here’s how to use it wisely:
1. Look for Value
Pay attention to players who are slipping in the draft. If a player’s ADP is 40 but they’re still available at 50, they might be a great value pick.
2. Be Flexible
Don’t draft strictly by ADP. If you need a wide receiver and the best one available has an ADP slightly lower than your current pick, it’s okay to grab them early.
3. Track Position Runs
Sometimes, certain positions start going fast. If lots of running backs are being drafted, you might need to grab one sooner than ADP suggests.
4. Use ADP by Platform
ADP can vary between fantasy football platforms like ESPN, Yahoo, and Sleeper. Check the ADP for the platform you’re using.
ADP vs. Rankings
People sometimes confuse ADP with player rankings. They are similar but not the same.
- ADP: Where players are actually being drafted.
- Rankings: Where experts think players should be drafted.
Rankings are opinions, while ADP is based on real drafts. You should use both when preparing for your draft.
ADP Trends and How They Change
ADP is always changing. Here are some common reasons:
- Injuries: If a player gets hurt, their ADP usually drops.
- Breakout Performances: A great preseason game can make a player’s ADP rise fast.
- Depth Chart Changes: If a backup player becomes a starter, their ADP jumps up.
That’s why keeping an eye on ADP throughout the offseason is crucial.
Final Thoughts
ADP is a powerful tool in fantasy football drafts. It helps you know when to pick players, spot value, and avoid bad decisions.
However, don’t rely on ADP alone. Use it as a guideline, but trust your instincts and research.
Now that you understand ADP, you’re ready to crush your fantasy football draft!
