The eighth selection in a 12-team fantasy football draft is a prime spot to land a player who can be a league-winner. With the top seven picks likely going to quarterbacks and running backs, fantasy owners picking at number eight have multiple paths they can take.
Recent seasons have shown that the running back position has become increasingly valuable, and a top-tier option at the position can help a fantasy team reach the playoffs. Some of the running backs that could be available at the eighth pick include Christian McCaffrey, Saquon Barkley, and Ezekiel Elliott.
If a fantasy owner prefers to go with a wide receiver, there are several players who could be available at pick eight. Two of the most popular options are Davante Adams and Tyreek Hill. Both players are known for making big plays and can single-handedly win fantasy matchups.
Identifying Value and Upside: Hidden Gems at the Eighth Pick
At the eighth pick in a 12-man fantasy draft, fantasy GMs have a unique opportunity to land a player with a high ceiling and the potential to outplay their average draft position (ADP). Here are a few hidden gems who could provide exceptional value at this spot:
Jonathan Taylor (RB, Colts)
Taylor is a workhorse running back with exceptional vision and agility. Despite sharing the backfield with Nyheim Hines, Taylor led the NFL in rushing attempts and touchdowns in 2021. With the departure of Carson Wentz, Taylor could see an even bigger workload in 2022, making him a potential league winner at the eighth pick.
Nick Chubb (RB, Browns)
Chubb is a physical runner who consistently produces at a high level. Despite injuries limiting him to 12 games in 2021, Chubb still rushed for 1,259 yards and eight touchdowns. With a talented offensive line and a pass-happy quarterback in Deshaun Watson, Chubb should have plenty of opportunities to score points in 2022.
Michael Thomas (WR, Saints)
Thomas is a former All-Pro receiver who missed the entire 2021 season due to injury. However, he is expected to return to full health in 2022 and reunite with quarterback Jameis Winston. Thomas has a proven track record of production, and he could be a major steal at the eighth pick if he can stay healthy.
| Player | ADP |
|---|---|
| Jonathan Taylor | 4.5 |
| Nick Chubb | 6.0 |
| Michael Thomas | 7.5 |
Embracing Flexibility: Adapting to Unexpected Draft Day Circumstances
Draft day in fantasy football is a dynamic event where the unexpected can happen at any moment. As the eighth pick in a 12-man league, you need to be prepared to adapt to any situation that arises. Here’s how to embrace flexibility and navigate the draft successfully:
Round 1: Assessing the Top Tier
With the eighth pick, you’re in a prime position to select from the elite tier of players. Work from the NFL ADP and consider your league’s scoring settings to identify the best available Running Back or Wide Receiver. Don’t be afraid to take a quarterback if the value aligns, such as Josh Allen or Lamar Jackson.
Round 2: Weighing Running Backs and Wide Receivers
The second round is a pivotal choice. Consider the running back depth remaining and how many teams have already selected their RB1. If you see a strong RB available, go for it. Otherwise, target a top-tier wide receiver like Cooper Kupp or Justin Jefferson.
Round 3: Nabbing a Tight End or Quarterback
In round 3, the focus shifts to solidifying your roster. If you went with a running back in round 1, consider a tight end like Travis Kelce or Darren Waller. Alternatively, if you selected a wide receiver first, consider a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes or Joe Burrow.
Round 4-6: Building Depth at Running Back and Wide Receiver
Use rounds 4-6 to reinforce your running back and wide receiver positions. Target players projected for solid production, such as Aaron Jones, Alvin Kamara, or Corey Davis. Consider their potential for upside and fit within your overall strategy.
Round 7-9: Versatility and Sleeper Picks
In the later rounds, it’s time to add flexibility to your roster. Look for players who can fill multiple roles, such as Cordarrelle Patterson or Deebo Samuel. Also, keep an eye out for potential breakout candidates or “sleepers” who could provide value beyond their ADP.
Round 10-12: Filling the Remaining Roster
In the final rounds, focus on filling out your roster with reliable options and potential upside. Target players with favorable matchups, projected workloads, or upside based on recent performances.
Adapting to the Draft Table
| Scenario | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Running back heavy start | Consider selecting a top-tier wide receiver in round 1 |
| Wide receiver heavy start | Target a running back with upside or consider a top-tier tight end in round 1 |
| Unexpected player falls | Don’t hesitate to deviate from your plan if a top-tier player falls to your pick |
| Player you want is taken | Evaluate the remaining options and adjust your strategy accordingly |
Best Fantasy Draft Order 8th Pick 12 Man League
The 8th pick in a 12-man league is a great spot to be in. You are in the first wave of players, which means you will get a top-tier player. You also have a good chance of getting a top-5 player if you are lucky. The best players to target at this pick are Christian McCaffrey, Davante Adams, Jonathan Taylor, Austin Ekeler, and Cooper Kupp.
McCaffrey is the best all-around player in fantasy football. He is a running back who can also catch passes out of the backfield. He is a workhorse who can handle a heavy workload. Adams is the best wide receiver in fantasy football. He is a big target with great hands and a knack for getting open. Taylor is the best running back in fantasy football. He is a powerful runner who can break tackles and score touchdowns. Ekeler is a versatile running back who can do it all. He is a good runner, receiver, and returner. Kupp is the best wide receiver in fantasy football. He is a great route runner with great hands and a knack for getting open.
People Also Ask
Who should I draft with the 8th pick in a 12-man league?
The best players to target at this pick are Christian McCaffrey, Davante Adams, Jonathan Taylor, Austin Ekeler, and Cooper Kupp.
What is the best position to draft in the first round?
The best position to draft in the first round is running back or wide receiver.
What is the best strategy for drafting in a 12-man league?
The best strategy for drafting in a 12-man league is to target the best available player at each position. You should also try to draft players with upside and players who play in high-scoring offenses.
