If you are the owner of the eighth overall pick in a 1QB, PPR fantasy football draft in 2024, you have several strong options to build your team around.
Whether you’re targeting a wide receiver or running back, this draft position allows you to secure an anchor player with league-winning fantasy value.
Using a combination of Sleeper‘s ADP and Pro Football Network’s Fantasy Football Rankings, we will examine three potential players who could be available at eighth overall.
Which Players Should You Consider Picking No. 8 Overall?
WHO SHOULD BE WHICH PICK?: 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 9th | 10th | 11th | 12th
Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings (Above ADP)
2024 Expectations: Justin Jefferson is currently ranked as WR4 with an ADP of fifth overall, according to Pro Football Network’s fantasy rankings and Sleeper ADP.
Jefferson has been a staple in fantasy lineups since his rookie year, and despite a potential downgrade at quarterback, he remains one of the elite fantasy options at wide receiver.
2023 Data: Last season, Jefferson finished as WR5 on a points-per-game basis in PPR formats, averaging 19.1 points per game. He totaled 123 receptions for 1,809 yards and nine touchdowns on a target share of 28.5%. His production was consistent despite the mid-season QB change, proving his reliability regardless of who is under center.
Argument: Given his consistency and upside, drafting Jefferson at No. 8 overall could be a steal. While there are some concerns about his touchdown production with a new quarterback, he will still command a high target share in the Minnesota Vikings’ offense, and that alone will help maintain his higher floor value in PPR formats.
Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia Eagles (At ADP)
2024 Expectations: Barkley enters the 2024 season with renewed optimism after moving on from the New York Giants to join the Philadelphia Eagles as their new running back this offseason.
Currently being drafted as RB4 with an ADP ranging from No. 8 to No. 10 overall, Barkley is expected to benefit from running behind one of the best offensive lines in the league alongside a dynamic offense led by Jalen Hurts.
2023 Data: Last season, Barkley averaged 11.3 fantasy points per game with 1,312 rushing yards and eight total touchdowns. His opportunity share was 80.6%, and he maintained a 15.3% target share. He did post lower efficiency metrics in 2023 than expected, with 3.9 yards per carry and 1.1 yards per route run.
Barkley’s move to the Eagles should provide increased scoring potential and overall efficiency as a runner, though his receiving work might decline slightly compared to his time with the Giants.
Argument: Barkley offers a combination of safety and upside at eighth overall, particularly if you’re looking for a high-volume RB1. His move to a better offensive environment could rejuvenate his fantasy value, giving him potential league-winning value.
Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts (Below ADP)
2024 Expectations: Jonathan Taylor is currently being drafted as RB5 with an ADP of No. 11 overall.
Despite struggling with injuries and declining efficiency over the past two seasons, Taylor still has the potential to return to elite form, especially in a run-first offense with Anthony Richardson at QB.
2023 Data: A season ago, Taylor averaged 15.6 fantasy points per game, rushing for 1,250 yards and 10 touchdowns, with a 7.6% target share. His efficiency metrics have declined from his peak in 2021, with 4.4 yards per carry and only 3.6% of his carries going for 15+ yards. However, his workload remains high, and his big-play potential still makes him a viable fantasy option.
Argument: If you’re willing to take a calculated risk, Taylor at No. 8 overall could pay off, especially in a run-first offense. While there are concerns about his ability to return to top form, his potential upside makes him an intriguing below-ADP option.
Who Should Go No. 8?
Deciding who to select with the eighth overall pick depends on your draft strategy.
Jefferson offers elite, league-winning potential if the Vikings’ offense remains stable despite the uncertainties at quarterback. Barkley provides a coveted, high-volume RB1 ceiling, making him an excellent choice with league-winning upside. Taylor is also a strong option, particularly in the Colts’ run-first offense with the return of Richardson.
Ultimately, Barkley stands out as the best anchor option, given his alignment with ADP and the potential for a breakout season in a revitalized Eagles offense.
