For your 2023 fantasy football draft, the best player to draft first depends on your draft position and league format, but generally, elite wide receivers and running backs are top targets.
Top First-Round Draft Picks in 2023
- Wide Receivers like Ja’Marr Chase and CeeDee Lamb are excellent first picks, especially in PPR (point per reception) leagues. Chase led with 1,708 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2022, and Lamb had a high target volume, making them safe and high-upside choices
- Running backs like Christian McCaffrey and Jonathan Taylor are also strong early picks. McCaffrey finished as the RB1 in 2023 with high usage and big upside despite some injury risk, while Taylor is a volume-heavy back with top-tier rushing stats when healthy
- If you pick later in the first round (7-9), Puka Nacua is a top WR target due to his high target share and stable quarterback situation
Draft Strategy Tips for First Picks
- Prioritize players with proven volume and consistency in the first 1-4 rounds to anchor your team with elite talent
- Avoid injury-prone players early; durability is key for your first picks
- Balance your roster by mixing safe, proven players with upside picks in later rounds
- Quarterbacks are generally not drafted in the very early rounds in standard one-QB leagues due to positional supply and demand
Summary
- If you have an early pick (1-3), Ja’Marr Chase or CeeDee Lamb are top wide receiver choices.
- If you pick mid-to-late first round, consider Christian McCaffrey or Puka Nacua at running back or wide receiver.
- Focus on players with high volume, proven production, and durability for your first pick.
This approach aligns with expert consensus and value-based draft strategies for 2023
