Fantasy Football Draft Targets and Fades: Scott Pianowski reveals his top picks and players to avoid at each position

Scott Pianowski's fantasy football draft playbook offers key insights for the upcoming NFL season. Pianowski highlights top targets and players to avoid at each position.

In quarterbacks, Pianowski suggests Justin Herbert of the LAC as a standout pick after OC Mike McDaniel fixed the offense. Dak Prescott of DAL is expected to continue on a carnival team trajectory, while Jared Goff of DET offers solid production with a favorable ADP. Christian McCaffrey of SF has demonstrated strong usage despite efficiency drops, making him a potential sleeper pick.

Meanwhile, QBs Drake Maye of NE and Jalen Hurts of PHI are considered regression risks due to difficult schedules and dwindling rushing production, respectively.

On the running back front, Bijan Robinson of ATL is a highly coveted early pick due to a record-breaking deal. Jonathan Taylor of IND is primed to return after a significant injury, with a green light for play if Daniel Jones is cleared. Chase Brown of CIN is a reliable two-year veteran who belongs in Round 2. Meanwhile, Bucky Irving of TB has seen efficiency drop, and RJ Harvey of DEN faces a regression in touchdown rate, making him a fade pick.

In the wide receiver category, Justin Jefferson of MIN and Kyler Murray of LAR are top targets to pounce on in Round 2. Emeka Egbuka of TB, who had an excused absence last season, is expected to become the team's primary target. Mike Evans of SF has injury concerns but remains a touchdown machine due to Kyle Shanahan's scheming. Rashee Rice of KC faces health and off-field concerns, potentially pushing him into later rounds. Lastly, Malik Nabers of NYG is a sleeper pick, assuming a seamless return from an ACL tear.