Where to Draft Defenders in Fantrax EPL Draft in 25/26

Draft Genie
2 days ago
9 min read

Defenders are usually the most overlooked Fantasy EPL position during a draft (goalkeepers aside). Everyone is fighting to add the best Premier League attackers to their roster, while elite defenders fall further and further down the draft board. This article will give you some insight on how to build a strong defense on draft day, and take into account the new scoring changes in Fantrax Default Scoring! For more incredible analysis and draft help check out our 25/26 Draft Kit and our Pricing Plans

Check out our 25/26 Draft Kit for all the pre-season information you could ever need. We've got a Live Draft Aide, Draft Rankings, Team Previews, Cheat Sheets, Strategy Articles, Draft 101. Dominate your draft!

Defender Advice

Below you will find my advice on drafting defenders for this upcoming season. Drafting defenders could make or break your early season success, especially if you choose to draft one over an attacker and they don't pan out as you would have expected. For more defender guidance take a look at our 25/26 Tiered Rankings.

Should I Use a Top 24 Pick on a Defender?

In 12 team leagues, a top 24 pick basically refers to drafting a defender in the first two rounds. The way I go about the draft is I always try to get 2 attackers in these first 2 rounds, and especially ensure I have one that can score goals, but there will be some defenders that could arguably outscore these attackers. Last season, 5 defenders finished in the top 24 scorers, but out of 12 players to finish with 12+ PPS only 2 were defenders (Munoz and Trent). The defenders coming in at the top 24 have availability as their best asset, but most lacked the upside to provide you with that top end PPS you want to punt on from a first and second round pick. Using a top 24 pick on a defender comes with the risk that they just end up giving you a solid floor, but lack the ceiling that I believe a title winning fantasy team needs. Unless you can get Munoz I am personally steering clear of defenders in the first 2 rounds. While Porro and Robinson can be tempting near the end of the 2nd round they both come with their risks, and I would prefer them if they fall to the third round instead.