Tricks of the fantasy football trade

By Ben Conrady

With week seven in the books, fantasy football has reached the midpoint of the year.

Chances are, some of your players haven’t panned out the way that you hoped. If you are sitting in the basement of your league, or even in the middle around the .500 mark, now is the time to make a splash in the trade market and begin your playoff push.

It is important to have the mindset of a used car salesman or a day trader on the stock market when you put your trade together: sell high, buy low.

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For example, Chris Johnson, running back for the Tennessee Titans, was most likely taken in your fantasy draft’s first round because of his break-away speed and knack for finding the end zone. If you drafted Johnson and still have him in your lineup, you likely need a few more wins to snatch a playoff spot.

Now is the time to make your move. Johnson rushed for 195 yards and two scores Sunday, but he has hit the century mark only once this season. Dangle Johnson’s numbers in the trade waters as bait, and you might get a big one.

This is also the time to buy low.

There are probably a few owners in your league that are enjoying fantasy success with a few injured or underperforming players on their bench. These owners are likely to be willing to deal these players for a sure bet in a trade.

For example, Greg Jennings, wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, has played only three games this season while he recovers from a groin injury.

His numbers may not look great on the surface (78 total yards receiving), but Jennings has the opportunity to be a great pickup. He plays in one of the league’s most prolific passing offenses, and he will be the Packers’ No. 1 guy when he returns to the lineup. In the three games he has played, Jennings had 12 catches and a touchdown.

He can be a strong asset to your fantasy team when he’s healthy.

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Lastly, don’t be afraid to take a few risks. It may be a gamble to deal a top player for a couple of long shots, but with the high risk comes a high reward. LaRod Stephens-Howling, running back of the Arizona Cardinals (126 yards and a touchdown in two starts this season) might be worthy trade material if he is paired with another role player, even if you have to give up one of your studs. The opportunity to gain two starters in exchange for one is an enticing chance to take.

These tips can help you if needed, but they can also hurt your team in a heartbeat if you are already on pace for a playoff birth. Use wisely, and don’t mess with success.

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