Kickers are often the unsung heroes of fantasy football, yet their importance can’t be underestimated! While many leagues are opting to replace the kicker position with a second flex spot, there are still plenty of reasons to pay attention to this pivotal role. **Understanding how to effectively draft kickers can make or break your fantasy season.**
In 2024, the top five kickers collectively scored an average of **171.8 fantasy points**. To put that in perspective, Rachaad White, who finished as the RB24, clocked in at **174.1 half-point PPR fantasy points**. Similarly, Jaylen Waddle finished as the WR24 with **172.5 fantasy points**. The kicker position can be surprisingly competitive!
However, the challenge with kickers lies in their numbers, which tend to be closely clustered. For instance, Brandon Aubrey was an outlier in 2023, amassing a remarkable **177 fantasy points**. Close behind were Cairo Santos (160), Matt Gay (150), and the legendary Justin Tucker (149). In fact, **five of the six top-12 kickers scored at least 139 fantasy points** last year.
In 2024, Chris Boswell took the crown with a whopping **184 fantasy points**, followed closely by Aubrey at 178 points. Despite the narrow margins among the top kickers, the fluidity of player performances due to injuries and team dynamics is crucial to consider.
Tips for Drafting Kickers Effectively
Targeting Kickers on High-Scoring Offenses
Your kicker’s scoring potential directly correlates with their team’s offensive proficiency. Consider this: **50% of the top 10 fantasy kickers** from three years ago were from teams that scored in the top 12. Notably, three of those kickers came from teams in the top six—like stars Brett Maher and Tyler Bass.
While individual skills matter, it’s the offensive unit that will determine a kicker’s success, much like Harrison Butker’s impressive output, which wasn’t dimmed by his injury issues in 2022. When Butker and his replacement scored **162 fantasy points combined**, it showcased their exceptional offense’s impact, making them a viable option in fantasy drafts.
Emphasizing Big Leg Kickers
Long-range capabilities can dramatically amplify your kicker’s score. Touchdowns generate six points, but a field goal from 50+-yards gives you **five fantasy points**—and up to **six points** for kicks from **60+ yards**! **Imagine scoring 13-15 points from just three successful long kicks**—that’s a game-changer!
When evaluating kickers, look for those with strong leg power. While altitude aids kickers in Denver, there are players across the league who can consistently nail long-distance attempts, making them valuable assets for your fantasy squad.
Steer Clear of Drafting First
Justin Tucker has long been the go-to kicker in drafts, but his performances over the past five seasons tell a different story. Despite his reputation, he finished as the K11 last year, hitting just **73.3%** of his field goals. This trend highlights the risk of being the first to draft a kicker.
Currently, the rising star is Brandon Aubrey, who has shown remarkable consistency, converting **89.4% of his field goals** for the Cowboys. With an ADP of **109.7** last season, he’s a more enticing option for a late-round selection compared to Boswell, who finished as the top scorer yet was drafted later.
The Art of Streaming Kickers
While it’s easy to lean on a single kicker all season, consider **streaming** your options based on matchups. Rather than committing to one kicker, wait until the last round to draft a Kicker for Week 1. This strategy allows you to adapt as the season evolves.
Unsure about your top running backs? Instead of picking a kicker ahead of time, seize the opportunity to draft a high-upside handcuff in the late rounds. If you find yourself with strong running back depth heading into Week 1, drop that handcuff and swoop in for a kicker just before the season starts. **Utilizing this strategy ensures you maximize your roster space and flexibility.**
**Ultimately, kickers aren’t the center of your fantasy universe.** Focus on streaming the position throughout the season, leveraging matchups, and keeping an eye on injury reports. Let your competitors waste mid-round picks on kickers while you utilize those slots for high-reward players. Steer clear of wasting a roster spot in the more challenging weeks simply because you over-invested in a kicker!
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Mike Fanelli is a featured writer at FantasyPros. For more insights from Mike, check out his archive and follow him on @Mike_NFL2.
