If you were able to win your league’s fantasy football championship, chances are you landed a few surprise players in your league’s draft or auction, or via a trade with another team.
Getting good value with your draft picks or auction dollars is what it’s all about, and what separates the winners from the losers.
Here’s a look at 5 fantasy football quarterbacks from the 2024 season who provided surprise value.
How many of them did you have on a fantasy roster?
Jayden Daniels, QB/Washington Commanders
Daniels’ rookie season was a whirlwind of excitement and fantasy production. His dual-threat ability was the cornerstone of his value, as his rushing prowess provided a consistent floor. While his passing numbers fluctuated, his ability to scramble for crucial yards and touchdowns proved invaluable. He displayed flashes of brilliance, showcasing his arm strength and accuracy, though consistency was an area for growth. Early in the season, there were rookie mistakes, but as the season progressed his understanding of the NFL game increased. He was a valuable fantasy player, especially in the fantasy playoffs. His rushing numbers gave him a high floor with an incredible ceiling, and when his passing game improved, he became a top tier fantasy quarterback.
Joe Burrow, QB/Cincinnati Bengals
Many fantasy owners were fearful of Burrow’s recent spate of injuries and were hesitant to select him. But Burrow’s 2024 season was a story of resilience and high-end potential. After a rocky start, hampered by lingering effects from previous injuries, he found his rhythm. His connection with his elite receiving corps, particularly Ja’Marr Chase, remained a fantasy goldmine. When healthy, Burrow showcased his pinpoint accuracy and ability to dissect defenses. His late season surge helped many fantasy owners make the playoffs.
Bo Nix, QB/Denver Broncos
I will straight up admit that I was one of many mocking the Broncos for taking Nix so high in the NFL Draft. But Nix showed that Sean Payton can make a fantasy gem out of anyone. Nix’s rookie campaign was a mixed bag from a real perspective, marked by both promise and growing pains. But he displayed a steady approach focusing on minimizing mistakes and utilizing his check-down options. His accuracy and decision-making improved as the season progressed. He was a great option in superflex leagues, and also hit several QB1 spike weeks as he showed encouraging signs for the future. He did not have the high ceiling that some other rookie QBs had, but he was a steady performer.
Baker Mayfield, QB/Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mayfield was a surprise, low-end QB1 during the 2023 season, and many expected that to be his ceiling going into last year. However, Mayfield’s 2024 season was a testament to his resilience and adaptability. He thrived in the Buccaneers’ offense, showcasing his accuracy and leadership. His connection with his receivers, particularly Mike Evans, was a key factor in his success. He was a very good value pick in fantasy drafts, and outperformed his ADP. He proved that he could still be a very productive NFL quarterback, and a valuable fantasy asset. He was a good option for fantasy owners who waited to select a quarterback later in their drafts.
Jared Goff, QB/Detroit Lions
Everybody knew the Lions had a great offense, engineered by offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. But you’d be hard pressed to find anyone drafting Jared Goff as their QB1 last year. However, Goff continued his steady production in 2024, proving to be a reliable fantasy option. He thrived in the Lions’ high-powered offense, showcasing his accuracy and ability to distribute the ball to his playmakers. His connection with Amon-Ra St. Brown was particularly strong, and his ability to manage the game effectively was a key factor in the Lions’ success. He was a consistent fantasy performer, and a very valuable asset for fantasy owners. He was a strong option for owners who waited on taking a quarterback.
