What is Zero RB Strategy?

There’s been a lot of buzz around the Zero RB strategy in fantasy football recently, and it’s become an intriguing option for many players. The strategy is unconventional, and it may seem counter-intuitive at first. However, it can yield considerable dividends if properly executed.

Let’s delve into the Zero RB strategy, how to execute it, and the reasons why it might just be your ticket to fantasy football dominance.

What Is the Zero RB Strategy?

Simply put, the Zero RB strategy involves deliberately avoiding drafting running backs in the early rounds of your fantasy football draft. You concentrate on other positions like wide receivers, tight ends, and even quarterbacks. The first running back typically doesn’t land on your team until the middle rounds.

How to Execute the Zero RB Strategy

The trick to successfully pulling off the Zero RB strategy lies in making strategic decisions about when and how to draft your running backs. Here are some key steps:

Load Up On Elite WRs and TEs Early: Use your early picks on elite wide receivers and tight ends, and don’t be afraid to snag a top quarterback if the opportunity presents itself. These players are typically more consistent and less injury-prone than running backs, which makes them more reliable for fantasy purposes.
Identify Value RBs in Mid-Late Rounds: As the draft moves into the middle and later rounds, begin to target running backs that have fallen through the cracks. This requires thorough pre-draft research to identify RBs with high upside and potential for breakout seasons.
Stay Active on the Waiver Wire: Zero RB doesn’t end at the draft; it requires constant vigilance on the waiver wire. Pay attention to situations that may increase a running back’s workload (e.g., an injury to a starting RB).
Stack Your Bench With RBs: Later in the draft and throughout the season, it’s wise to fill your bench with as many RBs as possible. This gives you multiple opportunities to stumble upon this year’s breakout star.

Why It Works

The Zero RB strategy is designed to mitigate risk and exploit the inherent volatility and injury-prone nature of the RB position. Here’s why it can work:

Less Injury Risk: RBs get injured more frequently than other positions. By investing your early picks in WRs and TEs, you’re less likely to see your top draft picks miss significant time due to injury.
Positional Consistency: WRs and TEs tend to score more consistently week to week than RBs. By focusing on these positions early, you can build a solid, reliable foundation for your team.
Leverage Position Scarcity: By grabbing elite receivers and tight ends early, you’re also denying these players to your competition.
Exploit RB Volatility: The unpredictable nature of RB performance and workload means there are always surprise breakouts each year. You’re more likely to hit on these late-round or waiver-wire gems if you’re continually investing in the position.

While the Zero RB strategy requires a keen understanding of player value, a watchful eye on the waiver wire, and a willingness to zag when others are zigging, it can pay off handsomely. It’s not for everyone, but for those willing to embrace the unconventional, it can certainly lead to league-winning results.