When to reach for kickers, DST

Kickers and defenses. They are the fantasy equivalent of old TV credits running in front of a freeze-framed photo. The show is over, but there is still some scrolling left to do.

It is common practice by many to wait until the end to draft the two most unpredictable and easily replaceable fantasy positions — for good reason: because they are unpredictable and easily replaceable.

Certainly, the Madman endorses exactly this practice. After loading up on three each of running backs and wide receivers, after then addressing quarterback and tight end while sprinkling end at least two more at RB and WR, then you get to the final roster spots: kicker and defense/special teams.

With rare exception, this is the preferred method. In recent years, we have altered our approach. We now prioritize a stable kicker over an unstable DST. For example, the lowest-ranked DST we like is the Cowboys. If they, or our other favorites who are more likely to be already taken (Bears, Jaguars, Texans) aren’t available in the 15th round of a traditional PPR league, then we will opt to go kicker first, then take the DST with the best Week 1 matchup (whichever team is playing the worst projected offense).

Why? Because we are perfectly comfortable with streaming defenses. We can drop a DST and pick up one with a better matchup week-to-week. We can be prepared to do this all season, though we hold out hope that during the bye weeks a preferred or emerging unit will become available that we then keep the rest of the way.

But, remember when we said “with rare exception”? Well, that’s an important disqualifier. It might not happen often, but if it does, it can help to bump one or both of those picks up a round or two if you know the player(s) you are targeting for deep bench spots will remain available.

Maybe you have a deep sleeper no one else is lauding. Maybe it is a handcuff RB no one else would want. Maybe it is a second QB, and there are plenty to choose from still available. If these situations arise, then go ahead and jump the gun on a better DST. Kickers, we’re not as inclined to treat with the same boost. But if, say, Justin Tucker or Greg Zuerlein or Harrison Butker is still on the board, we could forgive such a reach under these specific conditions.

The point being, most credit rolls are still mundane and offer little entertainment value. But sometimes, there is an extra-credits scene, a stinger that emerges that emerges from inanity that offers something of value. When that happens, don’t be afraid to pay attention and adjust your plan accordingly. Maybe the after-credits scene has some value.

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