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I've been doing salary cap drafts for over 25 years.
If yours is coming up soon, here are 11 tips and tricks to make you better in this format.
Early Nominations
Trying to "waste" other people's money early in the salary cap draft may sound logical, but it doesn't actually work.
Use your early nominations to determine if you'll secure certain players crucial to your build. If you don't land them, you then have time to pivot. Early noms are huge.
Secure Top Talent
Sometimes spending is out of control early. You can't go crazy with the room, but you MUST secure a Top 12 player, or two from the Top 20.
In a regular draft, you wouldn't trade your first-rounder for three fifth-rounders, so get in early despite the craziness. Then wait. Prices WILL go down.
Always Have Power
There are two types of power in a salary cap draft: Money and roster spots
Get used to passing on some deals. You can't have everyone.
Ask yourself before you bid: Do I want to give up some power for this player? Often, the answer gives you clarity on whether to bid.
Make 'em Sweat
The goal of salary cap drafts is to make your opponents uncomfortable.
When Malik Nabers is nominated, resist the urge to bid $1 at a time. Get the price up there quickly. "$30!"
Force them to think quickly about whether they want a player or not. This can force mistakes.
Vary From Year to Year
Vary your nominations, bids, and approach to building your roster.
If you buy the top RB every year, people will notice.
If you only nominate players you want, or don't, people will notice.
Mix it up and self-scout so you aren't giving away free information.
Bid and Stop Bidding Quickly
Don't wait until the clock is almost to zero before bidding. If you're going to bid, then do it immediately. When you're ready to stop, then stop. That becomes a fear in your opponents' minds.
Force them to think quickly.
If you need time to think, then take it! Otherwise, don't wait.
Tells
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