Fantasy Football QB Rankings 2022: Top Quarterbacks
Hey guys, ready to dominate your fantasy football league this year? A crucial part of any successful fantasy team is having a solid quarterback. With the 2022 season upon us, it's time to dive into the fantasy football QB rankings and identify the top quarterbacks who can lead your team to victory. Quarterbacks are the engine that drives any successful fantasy football team. Choosing the right one can make or break your season. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the top QBs, analyze their strengths and weaknesses, and provide insights to help you make informed decisions on draft day. Don't get stuck with a QB who will let you down. Get the inside scoop here.
Understanding the 2022 QB Landscape
Before we get into the rankings, let's set the stage. The quarterback position has evolved, with dual-threat QBs becoming increasingly valuable in fantasy football. These guys not only rack up passing yards and touchdowns but also contribute with their legs, adding a significant boost to their overall fantasy score. In 2022, we're seeing a blend of established stars and rising talents, making the QB landscape more dynamic than ever.
Key Factors Influencing QB Rankings
Several factors go into determining the fantasy football QB rankings. These include:
- Passing Ability: Accuracy, arm strength, and decision-making are critical.
- Rushing Ability: Quarterbacks who can run add a valuable dimension to their fantasy output.
- Offensive System: A QB's success is heavily influenced by the team's offensive scheme and play-calling.
- Supporting Cast: A strong offensive line and talented receivers are essential for a QB to thrive.
- Matchups: Some QBs perform better against certain defenses, so understanding the schedule is important.
- Historical Performance: Past performance is a great indicator of future success. Look at trends in previous seasons to see who has improved and who has declined.
- Coaching Changes: New coaches bring new strategies. If a team has a new coach, be aware of potential changes to the offense.
- Injury History: It's important to check for a history of injuries. A QB who has been frequently injured in the past is more likely to get hurt again. While injuries are part of the game, knowing a player’s injury profile will help you make an informed decision.
Top Tier: The Elite Fantasy QBs
These quarterbacks are the cream of the crop, capable of consistently delivering top-tier fantasy performances. Securing one of these guys can give you a significant advantage over your opponents.
1. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen is a fantasy football juggernaut. His combination of a rocket arm and powerful running ability makes him the ultimate dual-threat QB. Allen's supporting cast in Buffalo is top-notch, with Stefon Diggs leading a talented receiving corps. The Bills' offensive scheme is designed to maximize Allen's strengths, making him a weekly contender for the QB1 spot. Allen has consistently proven that he is a reliable player to keep in your lineup, and has very few bad weeks. In fact, it's fair to say that Allen is pretty much matchup-proof. You can expect to get a ton of points from Allen on a regular basis, and that is why he is pretty much the top choice among fantasy football players. With each passing year, Allen seems to improve his game. He is definitely one of the quarterbacks that you will want to draft in the early rounds to get the most value out of him. Not only is Allen valuable as a fantasy player, but he is also a very valuable player in real life. In fact, you could argue that he is the most valuable player on the Bills' offense.
2. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes is still an elite fantasy QB, even without Tyreek Hill. His arm talent is unmatched, and his ability to make plays under pressure is legendary. The Chiefs' offense, under Andy Reid, remains one of the most potent in the league. While there might be some adjustment period with new receivers, Mahomes' sheer talent should keep him near the top of the QB rankings. You can almost always count on Mahomes to get you the points you need. Even though the Chiefs lost one of their star players, you know that they will do what it takes to make up for the loss. Mahomes has the skills, the talent, and the work ethic to stay on top of the game. He has proven time and time again that he is one of the best quarterbacks in the league, and one of the best fantasy players. If you miss out on Allen, then Mahomes would be the next best choice. Don't be afraid to spend some high draft picks on Mahomes. It will be worth it in the end.
3. Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts made a huge leap last season, establishing himself as a premier dual-threat QB. With A.J. Brown joining the Eagles' receiving corps, Hurts has even more weapons at his disposal. The Eagles' offensive line is also among the best in the league, providing Hurts with ample protection. Expect Hurts to continue his upward trajectory and be a top-5 fantasy QB. In fact, it is reasonable to expect that Hurts can even ascend higher in the rankings. He has all the tools and support around him to make it to the top. The Eagles have built their team around Hurts. The city of Philadelphia has also embraced him. He has all the potential in the world to be among the elite. Watch out for Hurts to make some noise in the upcoming season. If you draft Hurts, then it will likely be a great value to your fantasy football team.
Solid Starters: Reliable QB Options
These quarterbacks may not have the same upside as the top tier, but they offer a high floor and can be counted on for consistent fantasy production.
4. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson's rushing ability alone makes him a valuable fantasy asset. After an injury-plagued 2021, Jackson is poised for a bounce-back season. The Ravens have revamped their receiving corps, adding more weapons for Jackson to target. If he can stay healthy, Jackson has the potential to be a top-5 fantasy QB. However, keep in mind that Jackson has had injury problems in the past, so there is always a risk that he can get injured again. Nevertheless, Jackson is a dual-threat QB who has the ability to run and pass the ball. When he's healthy, he is among the most dangerous QBs in the league. It goes without saying that if Jackson stays healthy, he will be a great value to your fantasy team. Keep an eye on the Ravens' training camp news to make sure Jackson is in tip-top condition.
5. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert possesses immense talent and a strong arm. The Chargers' offense is loaded with weapons, including Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, and Austin Ekeler. Herbert has the potential to put up huge numbers, but he sometimes lacks the rushing upside of the other top QBs. Still, his passing prowess makes him a reliable fantasy starter. If you can draft him, you can be sure that Herbert will be a great addition to your fantasy team. He has all the skills necessary to be a successful QB in the NFL. Some might even argue that he is among the top-5 quarterbacks in the league. He has the physical tools and the mental capacity to lead the Chargers to victory. The sky's the limit for Herbert, so make sure you grab him while he's still available.
6. Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals
Kyler Murray is a dynamic playmaker with both passing and rushing skills. The Cardinals' offense is designed to showcase Murray's talents. However, concerns about his maturity and the Cardinals' offensive line make him a slightly riskier option compared to the other QBs in this tier. Despite the risks, Murray has a lot of potential to be a valuable fantasy player. He's a quarterback who likes to run and pass, which makes him a dual-threat. Dual-threat QBs are very valuable in fantasy football. With the right mindset, Murray can be a valuable asset to your fantasy football team. However, it's important to keep in mind that there are some risks with drafting him. Make sure you weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. If Murray works on improving his decision-making, then he will be among the top QBs in the league.
Streaming Options and Sleepers
These quarterbacks may not be every-week starters, but they have the potential to provide value in specific matchups or as bye-week fillers. Keep an eye on these guys as the season progresses.
7. Tom Brady, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tom Brady is back for another season, defying Father Time. While he may not have the same upside as the younger QBs, Brady's experience and accuracy make him a solid streaming option. The Buccaneers still have a talented receiving corps, and Brady knows how to maximize their potential. At this point in his career, you know what you're going to get with Brady. He is not going to give you the big play all the time, but he is a consistent player who you can rely on to get the job done. Brady is likely a good pick for veteran players who want to pick a consistent performer to be on their team. Don't expect him to be the most exciting player, but expect him to be a solid pick who can get the job done.
8. Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos
Russell Wilson has a new home in Denver, and the change of scenery could revitalize his career. The Broncos have a talented receiving corps, and Wilson's deep-ball accuracy could unlock their full potential. However, it may take some time for Wilson to adjust to the Broncos' offense. It remains to be seen how Wilson will perform in the long run with the Broncos. A lot depends on how quickly he can build chemistry with his new teammates and understand the Broncos' playbook. Wilson will need to put in the time and effort to make the transition successful. While he is still a solid pick, there is still some uncertainty regarding his performance. Make sure to keep that in mind when you decide whether or not to draft him for your fantasy football team.
Final Thoughts
Drafting the right quarterback can set the tone for your entire fantasy football season. Keep these 2022 fantasy football QB rankings in mind as you prepare for your draft, and remember to consider your league's specific scoring rules and your overall draft strategy. Good luck, and may your QB lead you to a championship! Selecting the right QB is just one piece of the puzzle. It is important to draft a well-rounded team that has strengths in all positions. Don't ignore your running backs and wide receivers! When you are in doubt about who to pick, you should consult fantasy football experts. Experts can provide valuable insights into the players you should be targeting. Always remember to stay informed and adapt your strategy as the season progresses. Good luck, everyone!