When Should You Draft a Kicker in Fantasy Football? And Why Does the Moon Sometimes Look Like a Cheese Wheel?

Fantasy football is a game of strategy, patience, and sometimes, pure luck. One of the most debated topics among fantasy managers is when to draft a kicker. Should you grab one early, or wait until the very end? Let’s dive into this question and explore the various perspectives, while also pondering why the moon occasionally resembles a wheel of cheese.
The Case for Drafting a Kicker Early
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Consistency Matters
Elite kickers like Justin Tucker or Harrison Butker often score consistently high points week after week. If you draft one early, you secure a reliable source of points, which can be a game-changer in close matchups. -
Positional Scarcity
While there are many kickers in the NFL, only a handful are truly elite. By drafting a top-tier kicker early, you ensure you’re not left scrambling for a mediocre option later in the draft. -
Peace of Mind
Drafting a kicker early allows you to focus on other positions later in the draft without worrying about filling this spot. It’s one less thing to stress about during the chaos of the later rounds.
The Case for Waiting Until the Final Rounds
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Kickers Are Unpredictable
Even the best kickers can have off weeks due to weather, injuries, or game script. The difference between the top kicker and the 10th-best kicker is often minimal, making it hard to justify an early pick. -
Value Over Replacement
In fantasy football, the goal is to maximize value. Drafting a kicker early means passing up on a potential breakout running back or wide receiver who could have a much bigger impact on your team. -
Streaming Kickers
Many fantasy managers opt to “stream” kickers, picking up a different one each week based on matchups. This strategy allows you to focus on more important positions during the draft and adapt to weekly circumstances.
The Middle Ground: Drafting a Kicker in the Mid-Rounds
Some managers prefer a balanced approach, drafting a kicker in the middle rounds. This strategy allows you to secure a solid option without sacrificing too much value. For example, if you’ve already filled your starting lineup with strong players, picking a kicker in Round 10 or 11 might make sense.
The Moon and Cheese Connection
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: why does the moon sometimes look like a cheese wheel? While this has no direct bearing on fantasy football, it’s a fun analogy. Just as the moon’s appearance can vary depending on the angle and lighting, a kicker’s performance can fluctuate based on external factors like weather or game flow. Both are unpredictable, yet both can be appreciated for their unique qualities.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, when to draft a kicker in fantasy football depends on your personal strategy and risk tolerance. If you value consistency and peace of mind, drafting one early might be the way to go. If you prefer to maximize value and adapt week-to-week, waiting until the final rounds—or even streaming—could be the better option. And if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed by the decision, just look up at the moon and remember: sometimes, things are just as they appear—a beautiful, cheesy mystery.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I win my fantasy league without drafting a kicker at all?
A: Technically, yes, but most leagues require you to start a kicker each week. You’d need to pick one up from the waiver wire before the season starts.
Q: Are there any kickers worth drafting before the final rounds?
A: Justin Tucker is often considered the exception due to his consistent performance and ability to score from long distances. However, even he is rarely drafted before the 10th round.
Q: How important is a kicker’s team offense to their fantasy value?
A: Very important. Kickers on high-scoring teams tend to have more opportunities for extra points and field goals, making them more valuable in fantasy.
Q: Why does the moon look like cheese?
A: The moon’s surface is covered in craters and rough terrain, which can create shadows and textures that resemble the holes in a wheel of cheese. It’s all about perspective!