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Step 1
Avoid picking your quarterback too early, unless the absolute premiere quarterbacks are available then. Running backs and wide receivers should be your priority in the first couple rounds of the draft. Only the top two or three proven fantasy stat-sheet-filling quarterbacks should warrant your first- or second-round pick. A solid quarterback will be available to you in the third or fourth round, so don't panic.
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Step 2
Look for quarterbacks that throw for high yardage totals if your league gives you points for yardage. Touchdowns will come sporadically, but the quarterbacks that consistently throw for big yardage numbers can generate much-needed fantasy football points every week. To throw for high yardage, a quarterback has to have a competent receiving corps. Look for teams that historically throw the ball deep down field and have solid players that can catch the football. These are the clubs whose quarterbacks you want on your fantasy team.
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Step 3
Avoid quarterbacks that are involved in tight competitions for their job. These signal callers, even if they win the starting nod, will be replaced and sat on the bench as soon as they run into a cold streak. NFL coaches have to win now, and they are going to play the quarterback that gives them the best chance in their minds. Often, the quarterback that comes out of training camp with the job, after being closely challenged for it, loses it by mid-season, leaving the fantasy owner that chose him out in the cold.
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Step 4
Don't take a quarterback hoping that he stays healthy all season. Chances are that he won't. There are plenty of talented quarterbacks who simply can not make it through the rigors of a 16-game schedule. You need someone who has a track record of being durable. Don't get caught with your pants down during bye weeks, either. Make sure that your backup fantasy football quarterback does not have the same weekend off as your starter, leaving you to frantically scour the waiver wire.
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Step 5
Keep in mind that if you do take one of the top quarterbacks from an obvious playoff team, that he will most likely be on the sidelines resting during the final week of the season while you could be in your league championship game. Coaches aren't going to risk the franchise player in a meaningless game once they have clinched such prizes as home field and best record, meaning the guy that carried you to the playoffs in your fantasy league is going to be on the bench when you need him the most. Have a capable backup in place.
