Fantasy football rankings: Eric Moody's quarterback tiers - ESPN

Fantasy football is all about maximizing value. One effective strategy to identify gaps in value is by breaking down player rankings into tiers. Eric Moody at ESPN has done just that for quarterbacks in the 2024 season.

Tier 1: Elite Options
At the top of the rankings, we have the elite quarterbacks who can single-handedly win you weeks. These players include Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Jalen Hurts. They combine elite arm talent with the ability to produce points with their legs, making them invaluable assets in fantasy football.

Tier 2: Reliable Starters
Following the elite tier, we have reliable starters who may not have the same weekly ceiling but offer consistent production. This tier features Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, and Lamar Jackson. Burrow and Herbert excel with their passing acumen, while Jackson’s rushing ability keeps him a top-tier option despite some inconsistencies in the passing game.

Tier 3: High-Upside Plays
This tier includes quarterbacks who have shown the potential to put up elite numbers but carry some risk. Tua Tagovailoa, Trevor Lawrence, and Dak Prescott fit this category. Each has the potential to provide weekly QB1 numbers but may face issues such as injury history, supporting cast changes, or inconsistent performance.

Tier 4: Solid Contributors
Quarterbacks in this tier are reliable if unspectacular options. Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins, and Derek Carr are prime examples. They may not win you many weeks outright, but they offer a solid floor that can be valuable throughout the season.

Tier 5: Young Guns
In this tier, we find the promising young quarterbacks who could break out this season. These include players like Kenny Pickett, Bryce Young, and C.J. Stroud. Each has shown flashes of brilliance, but their inexperience keeps them in the lower tiers for now.

Tier 6: Veteran Presence
Rounding out the rankings are experienced quarterbacks who are past their prime but can still contribute. Ryan Tannehill, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Russell Wilson anchor this tier. While their best days might be behind them, they still bring a level of stability and veteran savvy that can come in handy during a long fantasy season.

By breaking down quarterbacks into these tiers, managers can better strategize their drafts and in-season moves, ensuring they get maximum value out of their roster. Understanding these distinctions helps in making informed decisions, whether you’re aiming for a high ceiling, consistency, or taking a risk on potential starlets.