Quarterback Strategy in 2025 Fantasy Football
In fantasy football, the quarterback position often feels like a paradox. On one hand, the sheer volume of data — passing yards, touchdowns, completion percentages — makes it easy to rank talent. On the other, the decision of when to invest a draft pick in a quarterback is anything but simple.
Analysts refer to this decision point as structural drafting, the moment you lock in a quarterback and set the price ceiling for the rest of your roster. In 1QB leagues, the conventional wisdom has shifted toward spending down at the position, because the separation between the elite and the mid‑tier is narrower than at running back or wide receiver. That dynamic has been amplified in 2025, when the first quarterback slipped to the 23rd overall pick, underscoring how the market has cooled on early‑round signal‑callers.
Injury histories and recent performance trends further complicate the picture. Lamar Jackson remains a high‑end target thanks to his dual‑threat upside and a potential rebound season, while Joe Burrow is an avoid after a string of setbacks that have limited his rushing impact. Justin Herbert offers a compelling mid‑level option, and Trevor Lawrence’s late‑season surge has turned him into a favorite for many. Conversely, Patrick Mahomes is being avoided by some due to a noticeable dip in passing numbers and lingering injury concerns.
Rushing ability has become a decisive factor as traditional passing metrics plateau. Players who can extend plays with their legs — such as Kyler Murray in the QB2 range — gain extra value, especially when paired with a strong supporting cast. Meanwhile, prospects like Malik Willis attract attention for their rushing upside, even if their passing polish remains a work in progress.
Key Targets and Avoids
Among the names that surface repeatedly, Lamar Jackson stands out as a high‑end target, whereas Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes are frequently avoided, and Baker Mayfield is similarly discouraged. Justin Herbert and Kyler Murray are viewed as solid mid‑range investments, while Malik Willis attracts attention for his rushing upside.
The broader market reflects these dynamics, with the first quarterback often slipping past the early rounds and teams balancing the need for a reliable arm against the value of stacking other positions. In superflex formats, the demand for multiple starter‑caliber quarterbacks drives up scarcity, making the timing of a quarterback selection even more critical.