As we gear up for the 2024 fantasy football season, it's crucial to identify the key players who can make or break your lineup. In the AFC East and North, numerous players are poised to deliver standout performances and elevate your fantasy team to new heights. From explosive wide receivers to dual-threat quarterbacks and workhorse running backs, these divisions offer a wealth of talent that can significantly impact your fantasy success. In this first part of our series, we'll delve into the top three fantasy football players from each team in the AFC East and North, providing insights into their potential and how they fit into your draft strategy.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen (QB)
Josh Allen remains a top fantasy quarterback, thanks to his dual-threat capabilities. His ability to accumulate both passing and rushing yards makes him a consistent high performer in fantasy leagues. The Bills’ high-powered offense, combined with Allen’s playmaking skills, ensures he will be a cornerstone of many fantasy teams.
Dalton Kincaid (TE)
Dalton Kincaid is growing into a substantial role in the Buffalo offense. His exceptional route-running and connection with Josh Allen make him a TE1 who can deliver week-in and week-out. Kincaid’s role in the Bills’ offense, which often features high-scoring games, reinforces his status as a must-have tigh-end.
James Cook (RB)
James Cook is a key piece of the Bills’ backfield. His versatility, combined with the offense's explosive nature, provides him with significant fantasy upside. Cook’s potential to make big plays and contribute in the passing game adds considerable value, especially in PPR leagues.
Miami Dolphins
Tyreek Hill (WR)
Tyreek Hill’s elite speed and ability to make game-changing plays keep him as a top WR1 in fantasy football. His deep-threat capability and connection with Tua Tagovailoa ensure that Hill remains a top choice for fantasy managers looking for explosive production.
Jaylen Waddle (WR)
Jaylen Waddle’s dynamic skill set makes him an excellent WR2 with WR1 upside, particularly in PPR formats. His ability to create separation and gain yards after the catch enhances his fantasy value, making him a valuable asset in a potent Dolphins’ offense.
Tua Tagovailoa (QB)
Tua Tagovailoa’s development as a quarterback and his rapport with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle have solidified his position as a solid QB1 when healthy. His accuracy and the Dolphins’ high-octane offense offer significant fantasy potential, making him a viable option for your roster.
New England Patriots
Rhamondre Stevenson (RB)
Rhamondre Stevenson is the clear workhorse back in the Patriots' offense. His ability to handle a heavy workload and contribute in various facets of the game makes him a reliable RB1. Stevenson’s volume and role in the offense ensure he provides consistent fantasy production.
Ja'Lynn Polk (WR)
Rookie Ja'Lynn Polk is projected to be the top receiver in New England. His ability to create plays and his expected high target share make him a valuable WR1. With Drake Maye at quarterback, Polk has the potential to be a key fantasy contributor.
Hunter Henry (TE)
Hunter Henry is a dependable red-zone target with potential TE1 upside. His role in the Patriots' offense, coupled with his ability to score touchdowns, makes him a solid fantasy option, especially in leagues where tight end production is crucial.
New York Jets
Garrett Wilson (WR)
Garrett Wilson is set for a breakout season as the top receiver for the Jets. His route-running skills and ability to gain yards after the catch position him as a strong WR1. With Aaron Rodgers returning from injury, Wilson’s potential for high fantasy returns is significant.
Aaron Rodgers (QB)
Aaron Rodgers remains a valuable QB1 despite his age. His experience and ability to perform at a high level ensure he continues to be a top fantasy quarterback. Rodgers' connection with his receivers and his playmaking ability keep him relevant in fantasy leagues.
Breece Hall (RB)
Breece Hall offers considerable upside now that he's at full health. His status as a workhorse back and his playmaking skills make him an appealing RB1 with the chance to exceed expectations. Staying health will solidify him as a top tier option at the RB position.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson (QB)
Lamar Jackson remains a dual-threat quarterback with immense fantasy upside. His ability to accumulate both rushing and passing yards, combined with his playmaking ability, makes him a top fantasy option. Jackson’s dynamic style of play ensures he remains a cornerstone for fantasy managers.
Mark Andrews (TE)
Mark Andrews is Lamar Jackson’s go-to target and an elite fantasy tight end. His ability to accumulate receptions and touchdowns makes him a top TE1. Andrews' role in the Ravens' offense guarantees consistent production and a high fantasy ceiling.
Zay Flowers (WR)
Zay Flowers is a significant playmaker in the Ravens' offense. His speed and ability to make big plays position him as a WR2 (at worst) fantasy option. Flowers’ skill to contribute significantly makes him a player on the rise.
Cincinnati Bengals
Ja’Marr Chase (WR)
Ja’Marr Chase is a top-tier WR1 with tremendous upside. His ability to make explosive plays and consistently produce high fantasy numbers makes him a must-have receiver. Chase’s connection with Joe Burrow solidifies his status as a top fantasy asset.
Joe Burrow (QB)
Joe Burrow is one of the most reliable and high-performing fantasy quarterbacks. His ability to deliver strong performances week-in and week-out, combined with the talent around him, ensures he remains a top QB1. Burrow’s consistency makes him a key player for fantasy success.
Tee Higgins (WR)
Tee Higgins is a strong WR2 with WR1 potential in certain weeks. His size, skill set, and role in the Bengals' high-powered offense make him a valuable fantasy asset. Higgins' ability to produce big plays and score touchdowns adds significant value.
Cleveland Browns
Jerome Ford (RB)
Jerome Ford is a reliable RB2 with consistent production. His ability to dominate on the ground and contribute in key situations makes him a solid fantasy running back. Ford'’s current role as the #2 makes him one of the most valuable handcuffs in the league.
Amari Cooper (WR)
Amari Cooper is the clear WR1 in Cleveland, offering solid WR2 value with a high weekly floor. His route-running and catching ability make him a dependable fantasy option. Cooper’s role in the Browns’ offense provides a stable fantasy presence.
Deshaun Watson (QB)
Deshaun Watson has the potential to bounce back as a strong QB1. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs, combined with the talent around him, makes him a viable fantasy option. Watson’s performance could significantly impact fantasy leagues.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Najee Harris (RB)
Najee Harris is a volume-based RB1 with a high fantasy floor. His ability to handle a heavy workload and contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a dependable option. Harris’ role in the Steelers’ offense guarantees consistent production. Harris status as the RB1 is currently volatile with Jaylen Warren poised to overtake him and provide the Steelers with a solid 1/2 punch at the RB position where both backs can thrive.
George Pickens (WR)
Pickens is the top receiver in Pittsburgh. His ability to accumulate receptions and yards makes him a valuable WR2 with WR1 upside in PPR formats. Picken’s role in the Steelers’ offense ensures he remains a key fantasy contributor.
Pat Freirmuth (TE)
Pat Friermuth has TE2 potential with breakout capability. His playmaking skills and potential role in the Steelers’ offense make him an intriguing fantasy option. Even though he could easily be the third mouth in the Pittsburgh passing game, his potential is too hard to ignore.
The AFC East and North divisions are brimming with fantasy football talent. From elite quarterbacks and wide receivers to versatile running backs and tight ends, these divisions offer a diverse range of players who can make a significant impact on your fantasy team. By targeting the standout players from these teams, you can build a roster that’s equipped to compete at the highest level. Stay tuned for the next installment of our series, where we’ll explore the top fantasy players in the AFC South and West.
