Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

[PGaither84]

FANTASY DRAFT GUIDE

Part I
Positional Breakdown

I have done the following:

• Entered franchise mode and started a 32 team fantasy draft, simulated the entire thing
• I searched the rosters position by position finding players who had impressive positional ratings and A or B potential.
• Making a list of these talented players, both young and older [though mostly young] was a really good way to thin out the roster. This is the dirty work.
• Next, after making these lists, I found where they were drafted. After running multiple drafts, I found that without user interference, they are always drafted the same.
• Then, after simulating MANY franchises into and past year 5 and taking lots of notes, I was able to thin out the list even more.
• Finally, we have a completed list you will find below.

OFFENSE: The Quarter Back, Running Backs, Receivers, and the Offensive Line.

Spoiler

Quarter Back: The single most important position in professional football.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[THP] Throwing Power
[SAC] Short Throw Accuracy
[MAC] Medium Throw Accuracy
[DAC] Deep Throw Accuracy
[RUN] Throw on the Run
[PAC] Play Action
[AWR] Awareness - Only for computer controlled/coach mode
[THA] Throwing Accuracy - Only used when simulating games

ROUND 1

Tom Brady/Peyton Manning



What can I say about these two that hasn't already been said? Both of these future Hall of fame Quarter Backs play until they are either 40 or even 41 years of age in all of the franchises I have simulated. That is between 6 and 7 years of play for each.

ROUND 2

Drew Brees



Like Brady and Manning, Drew Brees is one of the NFL's elite passers. However, Brees tends to retire at around age 38, giving him no more longevity than Manning or Brady.

Ben Roethlisberger



What separates 28 year old "Big Ben" in real life, along with Madden NFL 11, from other Quarter Backs is his ability to throw accurate passes while on the run. With a Throw on the Run [RUN] rating of 97, wild passes should be rare while scrambling. One of the better passers for user control.

ROUND 7

Michael Vick



91 Speed, 96 Acceleration, 95 Agility
97 [THP] 84 [SAC] 85 [MAC] 84 [DAC] 97 [RUN]
The numbers speak for themselves.

ROUND 9

Matt Ryan



My favorite young QB in real life. Matty Ice is another amazing QB for your franchise. At 90 OVR and 25 years old, he is not only great now, but will get even better and remain your QB for years to come [of course, baring injury.]

ROUND 10

Joe Flacco



By the numbers, this 25 year old QB is Aaron Rodgers to Matt Ryan's Philip Rivers. About the same age with about the same skill set, but they both trade a little extra throwing power for accuracy. Flacco's big weakness though is his 78 Deep accuracy. I am sure he is a great QB, but honestly, I am not too impressed with him [sorry Ravens fans]

Josh Freeman



I will be honest, I don't know very much about this 22 year old Tampa Bay QB. I do know that he is an 86 OVR A potential player with a powerful arm and great mobility. from what I can tell, looking at his 6'6" frame, he is everything the Raiders wanted "J. Russ" to be and wasn't.

Sam Bradford



Being a 49ers fan, I was able to watch Bradford play against my team twice and would watch him play off and on throughout the season. this kid is the real deal and we are really talking about "Gems" at this point in our draft. You are not going to get any TRUE gems late in the draft at QB. there just aren't any late round A potential players, or low OVR QBs at a young age with great accuracy in this "final" roster update. No question he is a franchise QB.

Matthew Stafford



Like Bradford, Stafford is the real deal and will likely be a great franchise QB for the Lions in the years to come. Just like with Aaron Rodgers and Joe Flacco, Matthew is the "powerful arm QB" to Sam Bradford's "accurate passer" like Rivers and Ryan.

Mark Sanchez



Underrated in my opinion, Sanchez has been a very good QB for the Jets in his first two season. In Madden, his 82 Medium Accuracy [MAC] and 79 Deep Accuracy [DAC] don't give me lot of confidence in him in-game. However, with his A potential, this 23 year old Quarter Back often becomes one of the leagues best after a few simulated seasons. If you can manage his lower accuracy ratings until then, he will pay off in the long run for you.

ROUND 24

Tim Tebow



While he starts off as a low 75 OVR, Tebow will raise to a serviceable 80 OVR after his rookie season, even if he is a back up. However, from there on out he must start if you expect him to progress. If he compiles solid stats, he will quickly reach his maximum potential f being an 89 OVR in about 3 to 4 seasons. A nice project player.

Half Back: The men who carry the rock.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[TRK] Trucking
[ELU] Elusiveness
[SFA] Stiff Arm
[SPM] Spin Move
[JKM] Juke Move
[CAR] Carrying
[BCV] Ball Carrier Vision - For computer controlled backs

ROUND 1

Adrain Peterson



The best back in Madden. His speed agility and acceleration are all 97 and 98's. 97 elusiveness and 90 trucking, "All Day" Adrian Peterson's one weakness in real life and in Madden was his carry rating [fumbling problems.] He addressed that this year and held onto the ball really well. With a new carry rating of 81, it should rarely be a problem, less so when you use the Right Bumper [R1 for our PS3 friends.]

Maurice Jones-Drew



I like to call him "Frank Gore +." While I am a Gore fan, I recognize Jones-Drew's talent. His madden ratings are nearly identical to Gore's and the only difference is that he is slightly better than Frank in almost every one of them, but not by much. being two years younger [25 years old] also improves his stock.

ROUND 2

Steven Jackson



A little slower [87 speed] but more powerful, Steven Jackson is who I refer to as "the middle brother" of the three Running backs: Gore, Jackson and Jones-Drew. A solid balance between the other two, Jackson is another great feature back who still has some good seasons in front of him.

ROUND 3

Frank Gore



The HB of my SF49ers. Obviously I am biased, and I have more experience running with him than any other back in Madden. Gore is a work horse. I already know what he can do. If you missed out on Adrian Peterson, any of the last three backs I just talked about are solid replacements.

ROUND 4

Michael Turner



While I like turner and wish the Chargers had kept him, he is 28, and while that is only 1 year older than Gore and Jackson, I am leaning to saying he is getting too old to want to draft him that highly. in short, his is Steven Jackson, but one year older. Not a bad 3rd round pick though.

Darren McFadden



Run DMC used to be one of my late round gems in the default rosters. After his "coming of age season," McFadden is one of the leagues top backs and should be drafted as such. 97 speed and acceleration, his 86 agility hurts, but is still nice. His 96 stiff arm should make the A button [X for the PS3] your best friend while running.

Peyton Hillis



24 years old. If you couldn't tell, i really like power backs. At least, if I am going to spend a high draft pick on someone, I want a back that can power his way through the hole on any down. There are enough scat backs in the league [players with 96+ speed and acceleration] that you can draft in later rounds to create a thunder and lightning combo that I have a difficult time justifying drafting someone like Chris Johnson or Jamaal Charles. There are only a few backs with the skills of Frank gore or Steven Jackson. Peyton Hillis is one of them. Ryan Grant is another, but a 27 year old who is only an 88 isn't worth as much to me as the others.

Round 5

Legarrette Blount



Like Josh Freeman, I don't really know anything about this Buccaneer. I do know that my friends are hyped about him and he has some shocking Madden numbers. An A Potential player with 98 Trucking [TRK] and 98 Stiff Arm [SFA].

ROUND 13

Jahvid Best



This 80 OVR A potential Running Back for the Lions was another player who used to be a draft steal, selected down in round 28. No longer a gem, but you won't be over drafting him at 13. In fact, this is about where I would have put him.

Round 28

Danny Woodhead



While only a B potential, Little Danny Woodhead starts with 96 Elusiveness [ELU] 92 Juke Moves [JKM] and being a Patriots HB, he has some really nice receiving ratings.

Shonn Greene



Another A Potential power back that will complement any scat back in a thunder and lightning combo you may be building.

Round 29

Reggie Bush



One of the biggest draft steals you can pick up. His mid 80's receiving abilities along with his 96+ speed, acceleration, and agility make him a huge threat in the slot [just like real life.]

Wide Receiver: Speed, size, and moar speed.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[CTH] Catching
[CIT] Catch in traffic
[SPC] Spectacular catch
[RLS] Release
[RTE] Route Running

ROUND 1

Andre Johnson



A talented receiver for sure, but I honestly have no attachment to him myself. His 97 Release [RLS] and 95 Route Running [RTE] makes him very hard to cover in Madden. You are likely to fail most attempts at pressing him and you need some of the best corners in the league to cover him. Add in his 94 speed and ability to catch most everything thrown at him, his only real weakness his is age [29 years old.] Oh yeah, and he can run block with the best of them.

Roddy White



Smaller than Johnson, but almost the same receiver on paper. He exchanges strength and size for 92 elusiveness in the open field [compared to Johnson's 72.] Also one year younger [28.]

ROUND 2

Greg Jennings



Only 26 years old, Jennings and Aaron Rodgers will hopefully have a long and storied career together in real life. though, seeing how they already won a Super Bowl, I would say they have already left their mark in Green Bay and on the NFL. Lots of speed, great route runner and high a release rating make Jennings a solid pick.

Calvin Johnson Jr.



Megatron is projected to go at the top of the 3rd round, so I look at him more like a late 2ed round pick myself. In the company of Vernon Davis and Michael Vick as the most explosive players in Madden. 6'5" 236lbs with 95 speed, 94 acceleration, 96 agility and 99 jump, he is rare indeed. oh yeah, he has a whole bunch of high receiving ratings too

ROUND 5

Desean Jackson



Another uniquely talented receiver, Jackson has elite speed in the NFL. While I prefer power backs in the running game, I fully understand the value of a speedster wide receiver. Anyone who takes Jackson will be very happy with their pick.

ROUND 6

Wes Welker



Another personal favorite of mine, even at 29 years old, Wes can really help your franchise. With his high Agility, Acceleration, Route Running and Catch in Traffic ratings, Wes can and will tear up the short and medium passing game. i suggest that if you take, Wes, you think about using the Patriots play book and placing him as your #2 WR where EA intended him to be back when NE still had Randy Moss. there are a lot of unique plays in that book that take advantage of the No.2 WR and they automatically place him in the slot in some formations.

ROUND 8

Dez Bryant



An A Potential rookie receiver with a lot of core abilities. Expected to mature into one of the leagues best, Dez Bryant is a solid pick in the 10th or 11th round for anyone.

Round 11

Michael Crabtree



Like Dez Bryant, Crabtree is another young NFL ready receiver who can either flourish under a star QB or mature right along with a young franchise QB. he doesn't have any super stand out ratings right now, but his 80 route running and 85 release suggest those skills will become elite soon along with his catch in traffic and base catch ratings.

Mike Williams



Another player I don't know much about in real life. This 23 year old rookie's Madden ratings are all very similar to Dez Bryant and Michael Crabtree. Each of these three receiver's have minor differences, but are all equally talented.

ROUND 27

Demarius Thomas



A definite gem in the 27th round, this 75 OVR A potential rookie from the Broncos is a beast in Madden.

Brandon Tate



This Patriots A potential rookie isn't as fast as Demarius Thomas, but 94 speed isn't bad. His 87 elusivenesses bound to go up, and while he won't likely be an elite receiver in the league, at least not in Madden, he will be a great slot or even number two receiver for your team in a few seasons.

Jordan Shipley



If anyone looks like they could be the second coming of Wes Welker, Shipley is it. After simulating multiple franchises, he comes VERY close. in fact, his agility and acceleration go up to 99 each just like Welker once was. His route running never got to 99 though, but it did get to around 88 or so. [evil grin] TWO Wes Welkers.... HAHAHAHA![/evil grin]

Tight End: A hybrid of Offensive Lineman and Wide Receiver.

Spoiler

Breakdown
TE is my favorite position in football. The TE has the be a jack of all trades.

• Pass block to help against the blitz
• Seal the edge in the running game
• Be a receiving threat in the passing game

ROUND 1

Antonio Gates



The best TE in football right now and has been a while. In simulated drafts, he will fall from a 99, but time and time again he remains a 90+ TE until he retires around 36-38 years old, which is 6 to 8 years into franchise mode. As one of the rare talents in the league, he is still very much worth taking

Vernon Davis



In my opinion, the best TE in Madden and could be far and away the best TE in football if he had a good QB, or was on "a good team." He is the most physically dominating TE and the best run blocking TE in Madden and the NFL. He has two weaknesses. 75 route Running and 76 Catch in Traffic. Also, after many simulations, the computer doesn't really target Davis, so he doesn't get good numbers and that tends to drop his OVR. Playing games with user control or Coach Mode though alleviates that problem.

ROUND 4

Jermichael Finley



Nearly a clone of Gates in terms of Madden, Finley is only 23 years old and 2 years pro. He has lower receiving ratings than gates, but with his A potential, he will become that good quickly. If you don't want to pick gates in the 1st round, Finley is a good call in the 4th.

ROUND 10

Zack Miller



While I don't recommend drafting Witten or Clark in the first round, I am okay with drafting Miller in the 10th if you don't have a TE yet. Solid receiver and run blocker, he will contribute to your team for many years.

ROUND 14

Dustin Keller



I guess this is where I start pointing out the gems of the draft for TE. Keller is an A potential player with a lot really nice core abilities. His release and route running alone are high enough to beat most line backers man and zone coverage ratings while his 91 acceleration helps get him into his routes quickly. To think he gets better after that... if I don't normally take Vernon Davis, Keller would be one of the few Tight Ends I would turn to.

Rob Gronkowski



A classic TE that can be a threat on short yardage plays and in t he red zone, he also becomes one of the better run blocking TEs in the game. Rob is a solid choice and progresses to be one of the top rated TEs in Madden franchise mode. I would rather take his team mate who I am going to talk about next though.

Aaron Hernandez



As others have said, Hernandez is a physical slot receiver more than he is a TE, and that is why he is such a weapon for the NE Patriots. Solid physical abilities along with route running and receiving ratings, as a 14th round pick you can afford to pass on Gates and Davis with the intention on drafting a TE prospect in this round.

ROUND 15

Jermaine Gresham



My final gem at TE, this A potential rookie is also built in the Antonio Gates/Shannon Sharpe mold. Starting as a 78 OVR, he isn't likely to dominate for you right out of the gates [see what I did there?] but he will progress nicely into a beast of his own.

Offensive Line: The unsung heroes.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[RBS] Run Blocking Strength
[RBF] Run Blocking footwork
[PBS] Pass Blocking Strength
[PBF] Pass Blocking Footwork
[IBL] Impact Blocking
*The Run & Pass Block ratings are only used for simulating games and contributing to OVR.

Breakdown
I am going to change it up a little bit for the Offensive line. In the NFL there are 32 teams. Each of those teams needs 5 starting offensive linemen. That is 160 starting players. There are just not enough talented linemen to go around. All of the offensive linemen with a High OVR rating are good picks. What I will do is list the gems you can draft in "later rounds." These are players who may start off with lower OVR ratings, but have really nice positional ratings and become some of the league's elite a few years into franchise mode.

Offensive Tackle

Spoiler

Round 13

Joe Staley LT 86 OVR



Jason Smith RT 86 OVR



Michael Oher LT 85 OVR



Eben Britton RT 84 OVR



Round 14

Russell Okung LT 83 OVR



Trent Williams LT 83 OVR



Eugene Monroe LT 81 OVR




Round 15

Brian Bulaga RT 80 OVR



Jared Veldheer LT 79 OVR



Round 23

Anthony Davis RT 75 OVR

Offensive Guard

Spoiler

There really are only three "gems" when it comes to Offensive Guard. In the many franchises I have simulated, most of the good guards were:
A.) Already good [90+]
B.) Only went up a small amount, say 87 to a 90 or 88 to 91
C.) Were hand crafted rookies by Josh Looman.

Round 8

Mike Iupati LG 88 OVR



Round 16

Luis Vasquez RG 81 OVR



Max Unger RG 79 OVR

Center

Spoiler

Just like with the Guard position, there just aren't really any hidden gems at Center. In fact, in the final roster update I am building this off of, there are only two young A Potential centers, and they are pretty obvious if you watched football closely this year. this is why I suggest you pay close attention and draft O-line "early" and try to snipe these players when possible. Otherwise, you will have to rely on the Hand Crafted rookies to come through for you.

Round 13

Alex Mack 88 OVR



Maurkice Pouncey 85-96

DEFENSE: Safeties, Corner Backs, Line Backers, D-Ends, D-Tackles

Spoiler

I prefer the 3-4 defense over the 4-3 both in real life and in madden NFL 11. If you would like to know more about the 3-4, click here.

Defensive End: Often made from 4-3 Defensive tackles.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[BSH] Block Shedding - To stuff the run
[PMV] Power Moves - Pass Rushing

Overview
I want to start by saying that a 3-4 Defensive End's OVR rating is not a true reflection of their skills. Madden NFL 11 values 4-3 Pass rushing Defensive Ends and the Finesse Moves rating much higher than the Power Moves or Block Shedding ratings.

I will use 98 OVR DE Haloti Ngata of the Ravens for my example. Haloti Ngata possesses 67 Finesse Moves. If you raise this rating up a single point [to 68,] his OVR becomes 99. From there, if you reduce this rating to 50 [down 18 total points,] his OVR will come down to a 93 OVR, a reduction total of 6 points to his OVR. this is a 3:1 ratio of Finesse moves to OVR value. Repeating this test with his Power Moves reveals a 5:1 ratio. Once again with his Block Shedding and we see a 15:1 ratio of positional skill to OVR value.

What this all means is that just because your run stuffing 3-4 end isn't a 90+ OVR player doesn't mean he isn't good. In fact, in order to get Haloti Ngata up to a high 98 OVR rating, EA had to inflate his Finesse Moves rating until it reached a point they were happy with. This is also why if you take a talented a player such as Lions Rookie DT N. Suh and move him to DE for the 3-4, a position where he would fit in nicely and likely be the second coming of Richard Seymore, his OVR will still drop as he has a poor Finesse Moves rating.

The final two ratings I just want to touch on for a moment are Pursuit and Play Recognition. While these are important ratings, because your linemen are playing in the trenches, they really do not need high ratings in these areas. These ratings are really intended for Linebackers and Safeties. I mention them because they also play an important role in determining a player's OVR rating.

Now, after all of that, here is my list of candidates for DE for a 3-4 scheme:

Round 1

Haloti Ngata - RE 98 OVR



Round 3

Cullen Jenkins - RE 90 OVR



Justin Smith - RE 90 OVR



Luis Castillo - RE 88 OVR



Round 4

Randy Starks - RE 86 OVR



Round 5

Kendall Langford - LE 84 OVR




Round 6

Dwan Edwards - RE 83 OVR



Round 7

Ty Warren - LE 82 OVR



Round 8

Igor Olshansky - LE 80 OVR



Ndamukong Suh - DT 90 OVR



Note: Suh is listed as a DT. However, with his 307lb frame fits 3-4 ends better than Nose Tackle. Even though his OVR rating drops when you move him over, that is because he only has a 50 Finesse Moves rating.

Round 20

Mike Devito - RE 78 OVR



Round 29

Red Bryant - RE 76 OVR



Round 34

Isacc Sopoaga LE 72 OVR



Just like how N. Suh can double as a DE in the 3-4, thanks to his size, Sopoaga can double as a NT if you want him to. In fact, after the draft, I often just switch these two player's positions.

Round 43

Ron Brace - LE 68 OVR

Nose Tackle: The single-most important player in the 3-4.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[BSH] Block Shedding - To stuff the run
[PMV] Power Moves - Pass Rushing

Overview
In real life, teams are looking for NTs who weigh 325lbs or more. Some of the best NTs weigh as much as 360lbs.

While the NT isn't as important in Madden as it is in real life do to game play mechanics, this position can still have a big impact on the defensive side of the ball.

A simple trick to improving your 3-4 play in Madden is to "hot route" your defensive line to "crash" left or right in the same direction your blitz/pass rushers are coming from. Doing this will often cause the NT to attack that side, taking the center and possibly the guard with him [just like it is his responsibility in real life] with the intention of occupying blocks to free up other players.

Madden's real weakness is the lack of a true bull rush that can push the center backwards and collapse the pocket, not allowing the QB a place to step up into to make his throws. In real life, this is why the Jets drafted Nick Mangold to deal with Vince Wilfork. While Jeff Saturday is a very talented Center for the Colts, he has historically been push around by the larger and stronger Vince Wilfork which has helped the Patriots defense pressure Peyton Manning.

Round 2

Vince Wilfork - 95 OVR



Round 3

Shaun Rogers - 93 OVR



Round 5

Kris Jenkins - 92 OVR



Round 8

Casey Hampton - 91 OVR



B.J. Raji - 89 OVR



Raji island baby!

Round 9

Terrance Knighton - 87 OVR



Paul Soliai - 87 OVR



Albert Haynesworth - 87 OVR



A.K.A. Fat Albert, A.K.A. the 100 million dollar mistake. However, it's Madden 11, and he can't complain about being a 3-4 NT in your franchise. [You know, unlike Madden 07 on last gen *Cough* I didn't say that did I?]

Round 25

Dan Williams - 74 OVR



Round 33

Terrence Cody - 72 OVR



My favorite late round NT in Madden. His only weaknes is that he is slow. His 3 core abilities are already almost maxed out. 92 Tackle, 89 Power Moves, 97 Block Shedding.

Round 34

Linval Joseph - 71 OVR



Round 39

Torell Troup - 68 OVR



NOTE: I value the defensive line a lot higher against another human player than I do against the computer. A Vince Wilfork or Haloti Ngata can do a lot more damage against a human opponent than they will against the computer AI.

Outside Linebacker: Line Backers rule.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[POW] Hit Power - Hit Stick
[PUR] Pursuit - Chasing down the ball carrier
[PRC] Play Recognition - Reading Run/Pass/PA/Draws/Screens/etc

Overview
Line Backers use a lot of ratings to be honest. Man and Zone coverage, power and finesse moves to rush the passer, block shedding to stuff the run, tackle is obvious as well. However, Line backers are the ones known for making devastating hits more often than other positions. Also, Line Backers take better advantage of the Pursuit and Play Recognition than Defensive Linemen will.

Round 1

Jon Beason



I don't watch Panthers games, but I know Beason is a force. A top pick for sure.

Demarcus Ware



Another extraordinary young talent that is worth a top pick.

Round 2

Clay Matthews



He is everything Kevin Greene wished he was... and more.

Lamarr Woodley



Oh look, another Linebackers for the Steelers who is good. What a surprise.

ROUND 4

Cameron Wake



I think there are only 3 players who have ever tackled Big Ben. Apparently Cameron Wake is one of them.

Brian Orakpo



An underrated beast at OLB.

Thomas Davis



The Panthers have two very talented Outside Line backers. Take them.

Brian Cushing



Keith Rivers



ROUND 5

Justin Durant



ROUND 6

Aaron Curry



Round 16

Ernie Sims



Manny Lawson



Round 23

Thomas Howard



Round 46

Dekoda Watson



Even though he has only progresses into a 78 OVR in simulated franchise, he has 86 speed, 90 acceleration, 96 tackle, 93 power moves, and 94 pursuit. Not an elite linebacker, but he will tackle almost anything, can pass rush well, has great speed and pursuit to the ball. His weakness is coverage. Blitz with him.

Middle/Inside Linebacker: That goes double for these guys.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings/Overview
See Outside Linebackers. The big difference is, there are not as man fast ILBs to choose from as there are fast OLBs.

Round 1

Patrick Willis



The best player in football [okay, i'm a little biased.] Still... one of the best picks you can make. I still think Donny Moore, or more specifically Kane made him look awful in the 2ed or 3rd roster update. His chest/shoulders/pads look all wrong. He looks like his team mate Takeo Spike in real life, and used to look like him in the game.

Round 5

Lawrence Timmons



Look, a Steelers Line Backer. I wonder if he is any good?

Jerod Mayo



Round 28

Deandre Levy



A later round gem that may not look like much at first.

Round 30

Daryl Washington



Another later round gem that progresses into a solid Line backer.

Round 47

Tavares Gooden



Our final MLB gem. Another fast MLB with solid starting skills who will progress nicely.

Corner Back: A true shutdown corner is rare, and thus, valuable.

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[MCV] Man Coverage
[ZCV] Zone coverage
[PRS] Press - Bump and run.

Overview
There are really two types of corners in the NFL; Speedsters and physical corners. The two top CBs in the NFL right now aren't slow, but they are primarily physical corners. This is just the type of player I am looking for and suggest you draft as well. The two ratings I really look for are Man Coverage [MCV] and Press [PRS]. In Madden NFL 11 you still cannot assign individual press against single receivers like you could on last generation. As a result, I find Corner backs who have a low Press rating to be a detriment to my team, limiting how often and what plays I call press coverage with.

There are only two Corners in Madden [who are not hand crafted rookies] who are, or become players with 97+ speed and acceleration along with 90+ Man coverage. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie taken in the 6th round and Sam Shields who is taken in the 22ed round. Both are also nice selection, but neither are "physical." If you are looking for one or more fast corners to compliment your squad, either [or both] are good choices.

Round 1

Darrelle Revis



Nnamdi Asomugha



Round 5

Cortland Finnegan



A great number one for any team. In real life I have problems with his attitude, but that isn't an issue in Madden. Lots of great core skills and a solid pick.

Round 6

Vontae Davis



In my opinion, he is the best corner you could draft that isn't named Revis. After progression he becomes better than Nnamdi. He has more speed, and he gains 99 Man/92 Zone coverage with 98 press which are equal to or better than Nnamdi. In fact, with his 89 press, I would argue he could be even better than Revis at one point.

Joe Haden



He doesn't have an elite press rating ,but his 99Man and zone coverages with 90+ speed with 99 agility and acceleration after progressing make him one of the games best. He also tackles and sheds blocks well.

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie



Round 22

Mike Jenkins



Round 23

Lardarius Webb



Round 31

Kyle Wilson



Patrick Robinson




Round 35

Jarome Murphy



Round 42

Chris Cook

Free Safety: The last line of defense

Spoiler

Positional Ratings
[ZCV] Zone coverage
[PUR] Pursuit

Overview
I don't dislike Free Safeties. In fact, one of my all-time favorite players, Ronnie Lott, played Free Safety. I am just not impressed with the Free Safeties in Madden. They don't make that much of an impact in the game for me to justify an early draft pick, and there really aren't any "gems" that I have found as late rounders. The following is a list of solid starters you can find in round 17.
Round 17

Louis Delmas
Malcom Jenkins
Tanard Jackson
Earl Thomas
Nate Allen
Jairus Byrd
Michael Huff

Strong Safety: Your 5th Line Backer.

Spoiler

I think of strong safety much like free safety. Although I do look for things like pursuit and play recognition, this isn't Madden 10. The Pursuit angles are not broken like t her were in that game. It is unlikely your player will take a bad angle from the safety position. The following list is of Strong Safeties you can take outside of the top 10 picks who become not only some of the best in the league, but also posses 90+ hit power when they do.

Round 15

Eric Berry



Round 17

Pat Chung



Round 20

T.J. Ward



Round 30

Taylor Mays



Round 32

Michael Mitchel

Part II
The Cheat Sheet

A round-by-round break down of the computer's draft tendencies. This is useful to draft alongside the computer.

Spoiler

Round 1
Franchise players
Round 2
Franchise players
Round 3
DE
Round 4
HB/OLB
Round 5
1st half DE/OLB/HB - 2ed half CB
Round 6
WR/CB
Round 7
MLB with CB/WR mix in
Round 8
Smattering of DE/DT/MLB/OG
Round 9
DT/OG
Round 10
QB
Round 11
WR/CB
Round 12
1st half WR/CB - 2ed half OT
Round 13
C/OT
Round 14
TE/OT
Round 15
TE/OT again
Round 16
OG/OLB
Round 17
FS with minor SS& FB
Round 18
SS w/ minor FB
Round 19
Kicker with smattering of "everything else"
Round 20
More Kickers and "everything else" mixed in
Round 21
Punters
Round 22
O-Line/D-Line
Round 23
OLB/OG/OT
Round 24
DT with some QB
Round 25
DT/TE
Round 26
TE/QB
Round 27
WR
Round 28
HB/MLB
Round 29
SS/DE/HB/MLB
Round 30
Offensive/Defensive line
Round 31
CB/HB
Rounds 32 - 35
What ever you need based on highest OVR rating left.
Round 36
G/Need.
Round 37
OLB/Need
Rounds 38 - 45
Need
Round 46
OLB/Need
Round 47
TE/Need
Rounds 48 & 49
Need/Speed

Part III
The Draft Board

After building a list of players to look for and where they get drafted, the next step is to order them on to a draft board.

Spoiler

This draft board is subject to change. All I have done so far is place players on the board where they are projected to b drafted. I have yet to make adjustments.

Players in blue are rookies who were drafted in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft.

Players in green are rookies. [Please let me know if I forget to mark any rookies]

Round 1
[QB] Tom Brady, Peyton Manning
[HB] Adrain Peterson, Maurice Jones-Drew
[WR] Andre Johnson, Roddy White
[TE] Antonio Gates, Vernon Davis
[DE] Haloti Ngata
[OLB] Jon Beason, Demarcus Ware
[MLB] Patrick Willis
[CB] Darrelle Revis, Nnamdi Asomugha

Round 2
[QB] Drew Brees, Ben Roethlisberger
[HB] Steven Jackson
[WR]Greg Jennings, Calvin Johnson Jr.
[NT]Vince Wilfork
[OLB] Clay Matthews, Lamarr Woodley

Round 3
[HB] Frank Gore
[DE] Cullen Jenkins, Justin Smith, Luis Castillo
[NT] Shaun Rogers

Round 4
[HB] Michael Turner, Darren McFadden, Peyton Hillis
[TE] Jermichael Finley
[DE] Randy Starks
[OLB] Cameron Wake, Brian Orakpo, Thomas Davis, Brian Cushing, Keith Rivers

Round 5
[HB] Legarrette Blount
[WR] Desean Jackson
[DE] Kendall Langford
[NT] Kris Jenkins
[OLB] Justin Durant
[MLB] Lawrence Timmons, Jerod Mayo
[CB] Cortland Finnegan

Round 6
[WR] Wes Welker
[DE] Dwan Edwards
[OLB] Aaron Curry
[CB] Vontae Davis, Joe Haden, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

Round 7
[QB] Michael Vick
[DE] Ty Warren

Round 8
[WR] Dez Bryant
[OG] Mike Iupati
[DE] Igor Olshansky, [DT] Ndamukong Suh
[NT] Casey Hampton, B.J. Raji

Round 9
[QB] Matt Ryan,
[NT] Terrance Knighton, Paul Soliai, Albert Haynesworth

Round 10
[QB] Joe Flacco, Josh Freeman, Sam Bradford, Matthew Stafford, Mark Sanchez
[TE] Zack Miller

Round 11
[WR] Michael Crabtree, Mike Williams

Round 12
[No players on my Board are taken here. This is a great opportunity to lock up a Center]

Round 13
[HB] Jahvid Best
[OT] Joe Staley, Jason Smith, Michael Oher, Eben Britton
[C] Alex Mack, Maurkice Pouncey

Round 14
[TE] Dustin Keller, Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez
[OT] Russell Okung, Trent Williams, Eugene Monroe

Round 15
[TE] Jermaine Gresham
[OT] Brian Bulaga, Jared Veldheer
[SS] Eric Berry

Round 16
[OG] Luis Vasquez, Max Unger
[OLB] Ernie Sims, Manny Lawson

Round 17
[FS] Louis Delmas, Malcom Jenkins, Tanard Jackson, Earl Thomas, Nate Allen, Jairus Byrd, Michael Huff
[SS] Pat Chung

Round 18


Round 19
Kicker

Round 20
[DE] Mike Devito
[SS] T.J. Ward

Round 21
Punter

Round 22
[CB] Mike Jenkins

Round 23
[OT] Anthony Davis
[OLB] Thomas Howard
[CB] Lardarius Webb

Round 24
[QB] Tim Tebow

Round 25
[NT] Dan Williams

Round 26


Round 27
[WR] Demarius Thomas, Brandon Tate, Jordan Shipley


Round 28
[HB] Danny Woodhead, Shonn Greene
[MLB] Deandre Levy


Round 29
[HB] Reggie Bush
[DE] Red Bryant

Round 30
[MLB] Daryl Washington
[SS] Taylor Mays

Round 31
[CB] Kyle Wilson, Patrick Robinson

Round 32
[SS] Michael Mitchel

Round 33
[NT] Terrence Cody

Round 34
[DE/NT] Isacc Sopoaga, Linval Joseph

Round 35
[CB] Jarome Murphy

Round 36


Round 37


Round 38


Round 39
[NT] Torell Troup

Round 40


Round 41


Round 42
[CB] Chris Cook

Round 43
[DE] Ron Brace

Round 44


Round 45


Round 46
[OLB] Dekoda Watson

Round 47
[MLB] Tavares Gooden

Round 48


Round 49

[JaymeeAwesome]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Great idea man but save your time. Someone in the EA forums has creating an excel/XML document. Do a search...maybe take that info and improve it for OS users. With permission of course

[Bballplaya72]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Right off the bat I want to ask if anyone has made a Madden 11 fantasy draft guide.

I don't know if anyone remembers, but I made a semi-popular draft guide for Madden 09 and Madden 10 shortly after they came out. I would find out what positions were favored by the computer and the kinds of remaining players you would find from round to round. This way you could either draft "with" the computer or even try to draft ahead of the computer, knowing approximately what positions they would be targeting next in the draft. User selections only alter the draft a little bit.

If there isn't a guide up already, I guess I could create another one for Madden 11. I just don't know if many people play fantasy draft franchises anymore or not.

Great idea, but given how franchise mode has not been touched, it is probably the same, so we could probably use your guide from last year.

[PGaither84]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Great idea, but given how franchise mode has not been touched, it is probably the same, so we could probably use your guide from last year.

I guess, but I don't know if the fantasy draft logic changed. I'll look up my old guide and see if it still applies.

[Bballplaya72]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

I guess, but I don't know if the fantasy raft logic changed. I'll look up my old guide and see if it still applies.

What I'm saying is they have hardly touched anything on franchise mode, so I don't know why they would change anything with the fantasy draft.

[PGaither84]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

What I'm saying is they have hardly touched anything on franchise mode, so I don't know why they would change anything with the fantasy draft.

Agreed. So I dug this up from last year. I am going to save it on my computer so I don't lose it. These guides assume you want to play a sim franchise and are not just trying to take advantage of the computer. If you want to take advantage of the computer, you shouldn't need a guide. One of the big reasons I wrote a guide like this was so you knew "when" to draft key positions. Outside of the elite players [95-99 OVR] who all get taken in the first 2-3 rounds, the computer tends to draft players by position. For example, most QBs will sit on the draft board until round 14 or so where the computer takes about 17 of them at one time. If you didn't know that, you may wait one round too long, or draft one "too early" while other positions are getting swept up.

The "cheat sheet." My recomended picks from Madden 10.

Spoiler

Here is cheat sheet to work with when drafting alone or with friends. Remember, depending on how many friends you are drafting with may drastically alter the board, but the computer should still pick close to the same based on programed draft logic. I still recommend this path to building a team as you may notice that it is still built from the inside out. Again, I wish you the best of luck.

When I use a "/" the first position it the top recommendation and then moves on from there. Also, I am assuming that a Superstar such as Adrian Peterson [add Chris Johnson,] Patrick Willis or Drew Brees are not on your draft board. The only major change would be for either round 5, 10 or 12/13. Please refer to the detailed guide if you select one of these three players.

Round 1
DE
Round 2
DE/DT
Round 3
T/G
Round 4
G/T
Round 5
HB
Round 6
C
Round 7
DT/OLB
Round 8
OLB/DT
Round 9
CB/OLB
Round 10
MLB/CB
Round 11
MLB/CB
Round 12
TE/QB
Round 13
QB/TE
Round 14
FS
Round 15
G/OLB/CB
Round 16
FB
Round 17
SS
Round 18
Kicker
Round 19
Punter
Round 20
WR/CB
Round 21
WR/CB
Round 22
WR/CB
Round 23
QB/WR/CB
Round 24 & 25
DT/TE/QB
Round 26
QB/WR
Round 27
WR/HB
Rounds 28 & 29
HB/MLB/Offensive Line
Round 30
Offensive/Defensive line
Round 31
CB/HB
Rounds 32 - 35
What ever you need based on highest OVR rating left.
Round 36
G/Need.
Round 37
OLB/Need
Rounds 38 - 45
Need
Round 46
OLB/Need
Round 47
TE/Need
Rounds 48 & 49
Need/Speed

The long breakdown guide.

Spoiler

After spending hours running several fantasy drafts in Madden10 and taking notes, I wanted to share my findings so that you, our lovely OS users may use this information to have the best fantasy draft you possibly can.

In past years HBs, QBs, WRs, DEs, and Tackles were at a premium in the early round of a fantasy draft. This has changed to some degree in M10.

NOTE: The computer picks tends to pick by overall then age. So if a 24 year old player is a 94 and a 31 year old player is a 95, the computer will pick the 95 overall player despite the 24 year old being the far superior prospect. In fact, I think the computer just picks the highest player at the spot it wants when tied for overall regardless of age. Also note I will just list how many of each position is taken rather than when in that round they are taken. Also I will sort by position most taken.

So here we go, round by round, the computer's fantasy draft trends:
[Also Note this is with the August 19th roster update that has Favre and Vick, while roster updates will change overalls, it shouldn't drastically change where/when players are drafted unless their overall drastically changes. For example McNabb gets hurt and Vick becomes NFL MVP or something, lol]

Round 1
To start off the draft the computer picks from a wide range of players and goes down the list looking for 99's though 95's.
6 Offensive Linemen
6 Defensive Linemen
6 Defensive Backs [CB, FS, SS]
4 Wide Receivers
4 Linebackers
3 Quarter Backs [Manning, Brady, and then Brees]
2 Tight Ends
1 Half Backs [Adrian Peterson]

A Franchise Quarterback is Key to a building a successful team. However, in M10, unless Brees is on the Board you shouldn't pick a QB in he first round. Manning and Brady are great Quarter Backs, no doubt, but are too old [33 and 32 respectively] to build a team around because they should retire after only a few seasons. Brees on the other hand, age 30, should give you a solid 5 or 6 seasons before he starts to decline or retire [thanks to DakkoN for correcting me as I earlier mixed Brees and Brady's ages up.] If AP is still there snag him up as he is the best back in the NFL right now and in Madden, and he is young. Lastly Patrick Willis is a best in real life and Madden 10. He often gets taken off the board early though, so if he is there take him. If Brees, AP and Willis are gone, I recommend you look for an offensive or Defensive Linemen here in the first round. A shutdown corner or a play maker at WR are nice, but the Line is the cornerstone of the NFL and with custom sliders, Elite linemen do make a difference in Madden as well. In round 3 the computer makes a run on Defensive ends and round 1 and/or two may be a good time to lock one or two up.

My pick: DE

Round 2
8 Defensive Linemen
7 Offensive Linemen
5 Linebackers
4 Wide Receivers
3 Defensive Backs
3 Half backs
1 Tight End [Gonzo]
1 Quarter Back [Kurt Warner]

In this round again you will notice the emphasis on linemen. building a solid offensive or defensive line takes more than one player. I recommend that if you chose a linemn in the first round, you choose a player that will complement him on the line in the 2ed. A great Pass rusher could use a book end DE or a great DT. On the line, a great pass blocking LT can use a great run blocking LG to help you form a great offense for years to come. Unless you have AP, there is no reason to draft a HB this early. With a great line, even a late pick Half back like Darren McFadden can tear it up. You will also notice that after Kurt Warner and Big Ben are taken in the first 3 rounds, the next QB isn't taken until McNabb in round 9 and then the next QBs aren't taken until round 14.

My Pick: DE/DT

Round 3
22 Defensive Ends [0 DTs]
4 Offensive Linemen
2 Corner Backs
2 Half Backs
1 Linebacker
1 Quarter Back [Big Ben]

At this point even the computer recognizes that Defensive ends are a must pick taking 22 in round 3. If you haven't taken a Top DE yet, you may want to grab one before they are gone. If you already have an end or two, this is the time to think about another Offensive linemen or a WR. Next round the Computer hits the WR core hard taking 23 of them off the board on average. I am not completely sold on WRs in Madden myself because I prefer to use a short and medium passing attack and later round WRs are good enough for me. But, if a great WR is for you, this is the time to get one.

My Pick: T/G

Round 4
23 Wide Receivers
3 Offensive Linemen
2 Defensive Tackles
2 Safeties
1 Corner Back
1 Half Back

This round the computer goes nuts for Wide Receivers and if you don't have one yet and still want a good one, this is your last real shot. Again, I could care less about a high rated WR in M10 so I recommend you go for an offensive linemen here because in round 5 the computer takes Guards and Tackles with almost every pick. If you have been picking Offensive linemen from the start, this is a good time to look for your 2ed, 3rd, or even 4th to solidify the core of your offense. It is my experience watching the NFL that great teams often have great offensive linemen, and at least 3 of the front 5 are pro-bowl quality

My Pick: T/G to help my other T/G I picked last round

Round 5
29 Offensive Linemen [almost exclusively tackles and then Guards]
1 Defensive tackle
1 Corner Back
1 Half Back

As we see an average of 29 Offensive linemen have been taken and there aren't really any stars left to choose from. If you haven't choosen one prior to this, you had better make your move now or settle for a mediocre line all season long. If you have been drafting Linemen early here is your chance to grab a possible 2ed or 3rd man like I said above. If you have been drafting with me though, this is a time to grab a star Half Back to lead your team's ground attack.

My Pick: HB. Fast and strong

Round 6
20 Half Backs are taken
9 Offensive Linemen
1 Defensive End
1 Wide Receiver
1 tight End

As we can see 20 Backs get taken this round and if you picked one last round you should have gotten the pick of the litter. We should also have 2 or 3 linemen to run behind already as well. In the next round the Computer goes after Centers pretty hard adn this is where I would again try and jump the gun and take one of the best. This could also be a good time to start grabbing defensive tackles and finish your D-Line

My Pick: C. We now have a T, G, and C with a Star running back and two great defensive linemen.

Round 7
21 Offensive Linemen [mostly centers]
7 Defensive Linemen
3 half Backs
1 Tight End

As we see the computer takes 21 offensive linemen, of which are mostly Centers. If you haven't taken one yet, get one now. In the next two rounds the computer is looking for Defensive linemen mostly and linebackers. We should have 3 offensive and 2 defensive linemen already. This round I suggest we take a look at either a 3rd linemen for a 4-3 or if we want to run a 3-4 a great linebacker.

My pick: Defensive line/Fast Linebacker [likely an OLB]

Round 8
15 Defensive Linemen
9 Offensive Linemen
3 Full Backs
1 Half Back
1 Linebacker
1 Tight End
1 Corner Back
1 Safety

Both lines take an even bigger hit now and there isn't a whole lot left to choose from regarding star talent. Either finish drafting the line you have not been working on yet, or start to look for Linebackers, namely Outside linebackers. there is a run on Defensive tackle next round as well. If you don't have one, be aware of this.

My Pick: A second DT or OLB [maybe even a 2ed OLB if we took one last round]

Round 9
16 Defensive Linemen [15 are DTs and 1 DE]
13 Linebackers [12 OLBs and 1 MLB]
1 Full Back
1 Safety
1 Quarterback [McNabb]

At this point we likely have 3 great linemen, a great running back, 2 or 3 great defensive linemen and a great OLB or two. the defense really takes a hit next round with CBs, D-Line and Outside Linebackers all getting picked up evenly. A shut down Corner can really help with this pick or a second OLB to help your front 7.

My pick: CB/OLB. Likely a CB though as my front 7 is loaded with talent by now and a shutdown corner will really help my secondary.

Round 10
10 Corner Backs
9 Defensive Linemen [7 DTs & 2 DEs]
8 Outside Linebackers [0 MLBs]
4 Offensive Linemen
1 Quarter Back [P. Rivers]

This round I recommend you grab someone from the list above that you may be weak at. Next round WRs, CBs and more linebackers get taken off the board. Again I don't value WRs to highly in M10 and a good MLB or 2ed CB would be a good pick here IMO.

My Pick: MLB/CB. Finishing the front 7 with a great LB, adding that Shut down Corner or even picking a second CB to really cover the computer's WRs it has spent all his time picking up will really help.

Round 11
14 Corner Backs
11 Wide Receivers
6 Linebackers [3 OLB & 3 MLB]
1 Full Back

Next round we see MLBs disappear. We should already have a solid Offensive line and most of our front 7 taken care of. With a CB or two this would be a good time to pick up that MLB or 2ed CB depending on where your pick lands and where your team is at so far.

My Pick: MLB/CB depending on who we got last round. We should have a solid LB core by now and a few good CBs. our D should be looking pretty good now.

Round 12
20 Middle Linebackers [0 OLBs]
5 Corner Backs
2 Wide Receivers
1 Tight End
1 Safety
1 Full Back
1 Offensive Linemen
1 Quarter Back [Carson Palmer]

This round is your last chance to get that MLB or 2ed MLB if you are playing the 3-4. Also, if you haven't got a CB or Two now is a good time to finally do that. Next round the computer goes after starting centers again and really starts to take the TEs away. A great blocking and receiving TE can really help out your offensive attack. Keep in mind that if you want Carson Palmer and he is still on the board, you should take him now. He is a very good QB and should last after this round.

My Pick: A great TE or Carson Palmer. Likely a great TE though.

Round 13
15 Centers [no other O-Line]
13 Tight Ends
3 Outside Linebackers [0 MLBs]
1 Full Back

The rest of the starting Centers and most of he Good TEs are getting picked up here. This is a good round to choose that Franchise QB of yours because next round the computer take all of the rest of the talent at that spot. I think a QB is a great choice and the only one I recommend as your 13th pick of the draft.

My Pick: If you didn't get Carson Palmer last round then go for your franchise QB here. If You did get Palmer then I say go for that great TE.

Round 14
17 Quarter Backs [87OVR J. Cutler-77OVR J. Campbell]
5 Corner Backs
5 Offensive Linemen [4 are Centers]
3 Tight Ends
1 Safety
1 Linebacker

With the majority of talented QBs getting take by the end of this round, you had better have either made your move or are making it now. I don't think I need to tell you that a good QB is very important to having a good team. The only reason we wait this long to get one one is because after the first few top stars there is bundle of 80's overall QBs to choose from, all of which are nice in their own way. If you already snatched up a starting QB then I recommend you look for a FS or a guard to fill that final hole in your line. Free Safeties go quick next round so stay sharp.

My Pick: I have already grabbed a QB by now so I am looking for a
FS to help my deep coverage. A great front 7 can be negated by poor secondary play.

Round 15
15 Safeties [14 FS, 1 SS]
8 Corner Backs
4 Tight Ends
3 Centers [only Linemen]
1 Wide Receiver
1 Full Back

This round is a more simple one as we are nearing the end of drafting starting players. The secondary continues to fly off of the board. With 15 Safeties and 8 Corner backs going, 23 of the 32 picks are in the secondary and for good reason. WRs and other skill positions have all been taken up and we really need to defend these talented players. Next round we see Guards and OLBs taken so be aware of this. A solid guard that is in the 80's wouldn't be a bad pick here.

My Pick: I already took a FS this round so it really depend in what you still need versus what the best players on the board are. Look for a Guard, OLB, or a Corner here which ever is better, they all will take a hit between now and you next pick. If you put me on the spot, I'll take a Guard. The line can always use another good body.

Round 16
22 Guards [only Offensive linemen taken]
6 Linebakers [5 OLBs and 1 MLB]
2 Corner Backs
1 Wide Receiver
1 Quarter Back [Mark Sanchez]

If you didn't take a guard last round you may want to now as they are going quick. You line should either be finished now, or nearly finished by the end of this round. Full backs take a hit next round and now is as good of a time as any to take one for yourself as well.

My Pick: FB. If you see an offensive lineman who is 80 or better take him here, though I doubt you'll find one.

Round 17
11 Full Backs
5 Outside Linebackers [0 MLBs]
4 Offensive Linemen [3 Centers]
4 Wide Receivers
2 Strong Safeties
2 Tight Ends
2 Quarter Backs [Trent Edwards, then Jeff Garcia]
1 Corner Back
1 Defensive End

This round and next round we see Strong Safeties taken off the board. this is a good time to snag one of your own. The only reason i wouldn't is if you are still missing a QB or something important you looked over in an earlier round.

My Pick: SS. No doubt. Our starters should almost all be set by now.

Round 18
20 Strong Safties
7 Full Backs
2 Corner Backs
1 Free Safety
1 Wide Receiver
1 Offensive Linemen

With our 18th pick in the fantasy draft, and only 24 starters [including the kicker and punter we are yet to draft] there isn't much left to go. Looking back, we should have our team built from the inside out starting with linemen on both sides of the ball followed by linebackers and corners with a QB and a starting HB mixed in along the way. We should even have a solid TE and FB to help in pass and run protection. In the last few rounds we even got a FS and a SS. Kickers go next round and I want first crack at the best.

My Pick: Kicker. A great kicker this round and a great punter next round will go a long way in helping our special teams. Games can be won and lost with our two kickers, just ask Adam V. formerly of the Patriots and M. Scifress [spelling] of the Chargers last year and what he did to the Colts. He won co-player of the game with Darren Sproles because of the job he did.

Round 19
9 Kickers
5 Free Safeties
4 Outside Linebackers [0 MLBs]
4 Full Backs
3 Wide Receivers
3 Tight Ends
2 Quarterbacks
1 Center
1 Strong Safety

Simple, grab you kickers and punters in this and the last round. There are no excuses why you shouldn't have some of the best in the league.

My Pick: Punter. See last round.

Round 20
21 Kickers
5 Corner Backs
4 Offensive linemen [3 Tackles and 1 Guard]
1 Full Back
1 Quarterback

This round you should have a leg up on the competition after picking a kicker followed by a punter in the last two rounds. At this point I honestly start to pick up Wide Receivers. I look for players who have the best speed to route running ratio. Speed still kills in madden and when picking this low, no WR should have an abundance of talent in any non speed skills. Just grab the fast players and keep in mind that the NFL draft is a great place to build in later seasons of your fantasy draft.

My Pick: Likely WRs in the comming rounds. That, and additional Corner Backs.

Round 21
23 Punters
4 Free Safeties [0 SS]
3 Outside Linebackers [0 MLBs]
2 Kickers

Like last round, and next few rounds, I am looking for more WR and CB to fill spots on my roster and finish my final 24 starters [22 + K and P, 26 if you count your nickle back corner and your slot WR]

My Pick: Another WR or CB who ever is better on the draft board.

Round 22
8 Punters
7 Offensive Linemen
4 Defensive Linemen
4 Safeties
3 Linebackers
2 Wide receivers
2 Corner Backs
1 Full Back
1 Quarter Back

Same thing as the last two rounds. keep it up we have spots to fill.

Round 23
A large mix of every position excluding Punters and Kickers as all teams are filled are taken in round 23

- This round I recommend looking once more for WRs and CBs depending on the last few selections. Next round Backup QBs start to get taken so consider this or next round as an oppertunity to get that young gun or solid vet to back up your franchise QB in case he goes down on you like Tom Brady did last year or Michael Vick did a few years ago. [no, I don't mean getting arrested either.]

Round 24 & 25
In these two rounds only 5 Quarterbacks are taken The rest is a balance between Defensive tackles and Tight Ends only

- Like the above description, this is a good time to grab a DT or another TE. Back up players are who get taken from here on out. They also are often taken in batches so staying ahead of the curve and flushing out players ahead or along with the computer is the best bet from here on out. Just take a good look at their position skills and not so much at their awareness or strength ratings. Skills like pass/run blocking strength, pass/run blocking footwork, block shedding, pursuit, Finesse/power moves, and Man/zone coverage are all important ratings. I prefer vets with these picks over rookies because these are your back ups. These are the guys you want and need to count on when your starters get fatigued or injured and I don't like to trust my franchise in the hands of a backup rookie unless I drafter him. Granted, there area few steals here and there of current rookies and last year's rookies that have a lot of physical talent, but my personal opinion is to always value the vet over the rookie. As far as the rest of the rounds go, read the descriptions and remember the adivce I have given to you so far. Good luck.

Round 26
This round was pure Quarterbacks

Round 27
Pure Wide Receivers

Rounds 28 & 29
11 Middle Linebackers are taken these two rounds. The rest are all Half Backs

Round 30
12 Offensive Linemen [mixed]
11 Defensive Linemen [mixed]
5 Half Backs
2 Linebackers
2 Safeties

Round 31
4 Half Backs are taken along with 2 offensive Linemen. the rest of the round is only Corner Backs.

Rounds 32 - 35
A mixed bag of positions based on need and overall rating.

Round 36
Only Guards are taken here

Round 37
Only outside linebackers are taken here

Rounds 38 - 45
Again, a mixed bag of spots are filled based on need and overall rating.

Round 46
Again, only Outside Linebackers are taken

Round 47
This round we see only Tight Ends taken

Rounds 48 & 49
The Draft's final two rounds end with teams taking the best remaining players available based on need and overall rating.


This concludes all 49 rounds of the Franchise NFL draft. I hope your team is even better than mine. I wish you the best in your franchise.

I hope to post a quick reference sheet next.

Finally, if you do use this guide, please post your results. I would love to get your feedback. Also, are you seeing and drastic changes from this list and Madden 11?

[PGaither84]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Well, I finally started messing with Fantasy Draft again and the logic did change. I am working on a brand new guide, so it will take some time.

As an example, in Madden 10, in round 3 the computer slected 23 DEs and then 23 WRs in round 4. Now, in Madden 11, the computer tends to select a mix between WRs and DEs in the 3rd round and a mix of DEs and CBs in the 4th, a mix of WRs and CBs in the 5th and 20 or mroe DEs in the 6th round. Most QBs were not taken unti lthe 14th round in Madden 10, however, in Madden 11 the computer makes a run for them in the 10th round. Linebackers didn't tend to be taken until the 9th round, but now Tackles and LBs are taken in mass in the 7th and 8th rounds. This is all from memory. I don't have my forms in notes of me right now.

I was working on Fantasy Draft a lot last night taking notes and I had a draft plan in mind: In the first 6 rounds of the draft, a lot of talented DEs, CBs and WRs are all taken. By the end of the 6th round DEs OVR ratings dip into the low 70's for the remaining players while CBs and WRs drop to the low 80's if I recall correctly. Round 1 and 2 I would recomend selecting an elite CB and WR of your choice. Round 3 I would get an elite DE. In round 4 and 5 I would look for a second DE, WR, or CB. What ever combination you choose, round 6 eats up a lot of remaining DEs and starts to select Tackles and MLBs as it movess into the 7th round where it is almost exclusively Tackles and MLBs. In my opinion, at the end of 7 rounds your team should have 2 WRs, 2 CBs, a DE, Tackle and MLB. I prefer the 3-4 defense and I don't tend to select pass rushing DEs. It's nice to have a Richard Seymore/Haloti Ngata type player, but you don't really need two in the 3-4, while having two top flight CB's/WRs is far more game changing, more so in Madden. My friend is a Jets fan and we use them a lot in OTP and play now [he's new to Madden] and I'll tell you, having Revis & Cromartie back there is nice.

I only have the first 12 rounds recorded so far. I plan on doing a lot more tonight, possibly the rest. After that I plan on doing break downs and recomendations by position. Finally, for the first time I may make a list of "draft steals" to keep an eye out for. A and B potential players that you can snag in later rounds to make up for "lost player" in early rounds. For example, I know that Shonn Greene is a nice 81 OVR HB with B potential, and often turns into an 89 OVR player in franchise mode, but is selected around the 9th round. Jahvi Best, on the other hand, is a 75 OVR with A potential that slips to the 28th round or so, and with some playing time, becomes a 90 or so OVR player.

[Todem]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Awesome thread. i always do a fantasy draft squad as well to go along with my Dolphins Chise. It is a ton of fun.

I will wait for your updated guide before I draft. Then I will post my draft with the rounds each player was selected in as well.

[PGaither84]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

it's 1 am right now for me, and all night long, off and on this Sat I have been working on my Fantasy Draft spread sheets. I finished all but the last 9 rounds [41-49.] Tomorrow I plan on reading and evaluating all this fresh data. I ran a few Drafts a short while ago based off of my charts, and like the starting lineups I am putting together.

[SpillerBrainsCJ]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Sounds awesome dude. I'm the biggest Fantasy draft nerd I know, so I will be using your guide when you're finished. Believe me, it won't go unused. I would love something like that.

[ubernoob]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Here's a basic one.

Fantasy Draft Guide 2011

[PGaither84]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Here's a basic one.

Fantasy Draft Guide 2011

I did just that on my own at home. Very nice link. Thank you. Everyone else, please feel free to click that link, i don't want to copy and paste the data here:

==================
Legal Junk - Legal
==================

This guide may not be reproduced under any circumstances except for personal,
and private use. It may not be placed on any web site or otherwised
distributed publicly without advance written permission. Use of this guide on
any other web site or as a part of any public display is strictly prohibited,
and a violation of copyright. This guide is to only be placed on GameFAQ's or
GameFAQ's affilates. If you see this guide anywhere else please contact me at
Error1355(at)zoominternet.net

Copyright 2010 Cody Robertson & John M. Sherman

I will respect that.

NOTE: That list was made up with the default rosters. It still has Glenn Coffee on it, for example. The logic is still the same however, my charts with the most current rosters [prior to week 1 for those who read this post in the future] after two updates.

EDIT: Like before, I will post my impressions and opinions of the draft and my experiences drafting.

[Gandalay46]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

I really hope you post your findings, would love to be able to test it out.

[PGaither84]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

Work got busy, so I have been away, also I was waiting for the week 1 rosters. I think I am going to do a YouTube "Draft with me" video. What do you think?

[RJ SHAKER]

Re: Madden 11 Fantasy Draft guide

sounds good man. i cant w8 for this guide. me and my friends always play fantasy draft...and i wanna beat them so this will really help me plz hurry!! lol