As we continue our exploration of top fantasy football players for the 2024 season, we turn our attention to the AFC South and West. Each of these divisions features a mix of rising stars and established veterans who are poised to make a significant impact on your fantasy roster. From dominant running backs and explosive wide receivers to emerging quarterbacks, understanding the top players in these divisions is essential for crafting a winning fantasy strategy. In this second part of our series, we’ll highlight the top three fantasy football players from each team in the AFC South and West, providing you with the insights needed to make informed draft decisions.
AFC South
Houston Texans
Tank Dell (WR)
Tank Dell heads into the 2024 season as the #1 receiving option in what is projected to be a top offense in the NFL. Dell was having a standout rookie year in 2023 prior to getting hurt, and he should pick up right where he left off from last season.
Nico Collins (WR)
Nico Collins will remain arguably one of (if not the best) the top #2 WRs in the NFL in 2024. His size and ability to make plays downfield give him a high-upside potential every week. Even with the acquisition of veteran Stefon Diggs, Collins will continue to see targets, enhancing his fantasy value.
C.J. Stroud (QB)
2nd Year quarterback C.J. Stroud should continue to take the next step in his development as a top NFL (and fantasy) QB. His dual-threat capability offers a solid fantasy floor, particularly in Super-flex leagues where additional quarterback depth is valuable.
Indianapolis Colts
Jonathan Taylor (RB)
Jonathan Taylor remains one of the top fantasy running backs when fully healthy. His ability to dominate on the ground and contribute in the passing game makes him a top-tier RB1. Taylor’s talent and role as the Colts’ primary back ensure he provides significant fantasy value.
Michael Pittman Jr. (WR)
Michael Pittman Jr. is the Colts' primary receiving option, making him a strong fantasy WR2 with WR1 potential. His size and hands, combined with his expected high target share, provide a reliable fantasy floor. Pittman’s role in the Colts' offense makes him a valuable asset.
Anthony Richardson (QB)
Quarterback Anthony Richardson offers high upside with his dual-threat ability. Even though he's returning from injury, his potential to contribute as both a passer and runner makes him a compelling option in Super-flex leagues and deeper formats.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Travis Etienne (RB)
Travis Etienne is a versatile RB1 with the ability to make explosive plays. His role in the Jaguars' offense, combined with his receiving skills, provides significant fantasy upside. Etienne’s playmaking ability makes him a top choice in both standard and PPR leagues.
Christian Kirk
Christian Kirk is primed for a strong season as the WR1 for the Jaguars. His previous success and talent make him a high-upside fantasy WR2, especially with Calvin Ridley no longer in Jacksonville. While rookie Brian Thomas should have a very good year, Kirk's ability to produce big plays and accumulate yards adds considerable value.
Trevor Lawrence (QB)
Trevor Lawrence should bounce-back from a bit of a down 2023 as a reliable QB1 with top-10 potential. His development as a quarterback and the presence of playmakers like Kirk and Etienne enhance his fantasy value. Lawrence’s ability to perform both through the air and on the ground makes him an appealing option and no worse than a fantasy QB2.
Tennessee Titans
Tony Pollard (RB)
Tony Pollard, coming over from the Dallas Cowboys in the offseason, remains a solid RB1 with significant fantasy upside. His ability to handle a high volume of carries and his explosive running style ensure that he continues to be a top fantasy asset. Pollard's production makes him a central piece of fantasy rosters.
DeAndre Hopkins (WR)
DeAndre Hopkins is still a top-tier WR1 with the potential to make a significant impact. His skills and previous success make him a valuable fantasy asset, especially in an offense where he can be a primary target. Hopkins' ability to produce big plays adds to his fantasy value.
Will Levis (QB)
Will Levis provides high upside QB2 potential with the possibility of developing into a QB1. His cannon arm and rushing ability, combined with a new coaching staff coming over from Cincinnati, give him intriguing fantasy potential. If Levis can build on his previous performances, he could become a key fantasy contributor.
AFC West
Denver Broncos
Javonte Williams (RB)
Javonte Williams has the potential to be a high-value RB1 if he returns to full health. His role as the lead back and his ability to handle a significant workload make him a valuable fantasy asset. Williams’ playmaking ability and potential for big plays enhance his value.
Courtland Sutton (WR)
Courtland Sutton is positioned to be the WR1 in Denver, offering solid WR2 value with WR1 upside. His route-running and playmaking ability make him a key fantasy contributor. Sutton’s role in the Broncos’ offense ensures he remains a valuable option.
Bo Nix (QB)
Rookie QB Bo Nix could become a very good QB under Sean Payton’s guidance. His collegiate success and potential for breaking out could make him a viable QB2 with upside. Nix' ability to produce big plays and contribute through the air add to his fantasy value.
Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes (QB)
Patrick Mahomes remains the top fantasy quarterback, offering tremendous upside. His ability to consistently produce high fantasy scores and make big plays keeps him as a top QB1. Mahomes’ dynamic playmaking ability ensures he is a key asset for fantasy managers.
Travis Kelce (TE)
Travis Kelce is the premier fantasy tight end, providing a significant positional advantage. His ability to accumulate receptions, yards, and touchdowns makes him a top TE1. Kelce’s role in the Chiefs’ offense guarantees high fantasy production.
Isaiah Pacheco (RB)
Isaiah Pacheco is the lead back in a high-scoring offense, offering considerable fantasy value. His role as the primary runner and potential for touchdowns make him a solid RB2. Pacheco’s ability to contribute in the Chiefs’ explosive offense adds to his appeal.
Las Vegas Raiders
Davante Adams (WR)
Davante Adams remains a top WR1 with elite fantasy potential. His route-running and playmaking ability ensure he is a primary target in the Raiders’ offense. Adams’ consistent production and ability to score make him a top choice for fantasy managers.
Zamir White (RB)
Zamir White takes over as the RB1 in Las Vegas for the first time. His role as the lead back and ability to produce both on the ground and through the air make him a valuable fantasy asset. White's time as a backup prior to this season give him experience and should make him the de-facto #1 option for the Raiders.
Gardner Minshew (QB)
Recently named starter Gardner Minshew offers stable QB2 value with occasional QB1 upside. His ability to produce consistent performances and connect with top receivers like Davante Adams makes him a viable option. Minshew’s role in the Raiders’ offense adds to his fantasy appeal.
Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert (QB)
Justin Herbert is a top-tier QB1 with a high fantasy ceiling. His ability to deliver strong performances and accumulate passing yards and touchdowns makes him a key fantasy asset. Herbert’s role in the Chargers’ offense ensures he remains a top choice.
Gus Edwards (RB)
Edwards is a versatile RB1 with high PPR value. His ability to contribute on the ground makes him a valuable fantasy option. Edwards' playmaking skills and role in the Chargers' offense add significant value.
Ladd McConkey (WR)
Rookie WR Ladd McConkey is a reliable WR2 with WR1 upside, particularly in PPR formats. His route-running and catching ability make him a dependable fantasy option. McConkey’s role in the Chargers’ offense ensures he provides consistent production.
The AFC South and West divisions are filled with fantasy football stars ready to make an impact. From elite running backs and wide receivers to dynamic quarterbacks and tight ends, these divisions offer a wealth of talent that can elevate your fantasy team. By targeting the standout players from these teams, you can build a roster with high upside and consistent production. Stay tuned for the final part of our series, where we’ll dive into the top fantasy players in the NFC divisions.
