WEEK 1 RANKINGS: Defense/special teams
Your starting defense can be streamed each week based on scheduling or who plays the Browns, but the Broncos and Chiefs, who finished among the top four fantasy D/STs last year, have the first and second easiest schedules based on win-loss records, respectively. With little change on defense for both teams, it’s likely they’ll finish toward the top again. Many of last year’s top defenses (Vikings, Seahawks, Texans) face some of the toughest schedules, but that’s no reason to shy away from them. Teams like the Panthers and Ravens have a chance to return to their former glories after subpar performances last season.
Like usual, you don’t want to draft a defense too early – the middle-to-late rounds is best – and if someone in your league drafts a defense way too quickly, don’t get suckered into following the leader. There’s gold to be found in the bottom of the pile.
MORE RANKINGS:Quarterback | Running back | Wide Receiver | Tight End | Kicker | Top 200
Again, there’s no shame in playing a week-by-week committee, which most likely will happen, but if you want the best defense or the gold at the bottom of the pile, here’s who we like heading into the season.
The rankings below are bound to change throughout the preseason, so check back often for updates and analysis.
DOMINATE YOUR DRAFT: Ultimate 2017 fantasy football cheat sheet
