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Fantasy football is a popular pastime for sports enthusiasts, allowing fans to create their own teams and compete against friends or other players. One strategic element that often confuses newcomers is the concept of “handcuffs.” Understanding when and how to use handcuffs can significantly improve your chances of success.
What Are Handcuffs in Fantasy Football?
In fantasy football, a handcuff is a backup player who is a direct replacement for a starting player, especially at the running back or wide receiver position. Typically, these players are on the same team and are chosen to protect your investment if the starter gets injured or underperforms.
Why Use Handcuffs?
Using handcuffs can be a smart strategy for several reasons:
- Injury protection: If your star player gets injured, the handcuff can step in and maintain your team’s performance.
- Consistency: Handcuffs often have similar roles and usage patterns, making them reliable backups.
- Value preservation: They help protect your draft investment by ensuring you have a replacement ready.
When to Use Handcuffs
Deciding when to draft or acquire a handcuff depends on several factors:
- High-value players: When your starter is a top-tier player with a high injury risk, securing their handcuff is wise.
- Depth at the position: If your team lacks depth, adding a handcuff can prevent major setbacks.
- League settings: In leagues with many bench spots, having handcuffs is more feasible and beneficial.
Examples of Effective Handcuffs
Some classic examples include:
- Tony Pollard as a handcuff to Ezekiel Elliott
- Alexander Mattison backing up Dalvin Cook
- Chuba Hubbard as a backup to Miles Sanders
Conclusion
In summary, handcuffs are a valuable tool in fantasy football strategy, especially for high-value players. They provide a safety net against injuries and help maintain team stability. Knowing when to draft or acquire a handcuff can give you an edge over opponents and improve your chances of winning your league.