Fantasy football managers with the first overall draft pick face a unique kind of pressure this season, as the No. 1 selection sets the tone for the entire league. The decision hinges heavily on the scoring format, specifically whether the league operates on Point Per Reception (PPR) rules or standard scoring. While the top running backs and wide receivers often dominate early mock drafts, the specific rules of the league dictate the best strategy for securing the number one spot.
Running Backs Dominate PPR Leagues
When playing in a PPR league, the value of a player increases significantly with every catch. This scoring system favors running backs who act as primary receivers out of the backfield. Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons has emerged as the clear-cut top choice for the first pick in this format.
Robinson’s case for the top spot is built on volume. The Falcons’ quarterback situation is unstable, with Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. under center. When a quarterback is prone to mistakes, the offense tends to rely on short, safe passes to move the chains. Robinson fits this archetype perfectly, acting as a safety valve for the passing game while also handling the ground attack. In 2025, he finished with over 2,200 all-purpose yards, including 79 receptions on 103 targets.
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This usage mirrors the peak Christian McCaffrey season in 2019. When the Carolina Panthers lost Cam Newton, they had to route nearly every offensive play through their dual-threat running back. That reliance resulted in McCaffrey obliterating fantasy stat sheets with over 2,350 yards from scrimmage and 116 receptions. If the Falcons are forced into a similar reliance on their running back, Robinson has the potential to replicate that dominant volume.
Wide Receivers Lead Standard Formats
For leagues that do not award points for receptions, the strategy shifts toward explosive plays and consistency. In this scenario, Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals is the superior selection. Chase is widely regarded as the premier receiver in the NFL, offering a ceiling that few other players can match.
Even during a down year in 2025, Chase maintained a baseline of elite production. He has a real chance to return to his 2024 form where he finished with over 1,700 receiving yards on 127 receptions. His ability to compile over 1,000 yards in five consecutive seasons provides a high floor for fantasy managers. When combined with a healthy Joe Burrow, Chase becomes a focal point of an offense that often finds itself in shootouts due to defensive struggles.
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The Bengals frequently find themselves in games where they must score quickly, necessitating a heavy pass volume. In this environment, Chase acts as the engine for the passing game.
Those who prefer a different path might consider Jahmyr Gibbs of the Detroit Lions for PPR formats. Like Robinson, Gibbs is a dual-threat player, but the Lions possess a stronger offensive line and a more balanced roster. This depth means Gibbs might not receive the same target volume as a true number one back, though his dual-threat nature still makes him a strong option. In standard leagues, Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams presents an intriguing alternative. However, the lingering question of how many red zone targets Davante Adams will consume could limit Nacua’s ceiling this season.
