Most 2021 dynasty rookie drafts are in the books, but the landscape continues to shift as we move closer to redraft fantasy football season. There is still time to make fantasy trades ahead of training camp and plenty to watch for once players finally hit the field donning pads.
The following are my updated top-200 dynasty rankings, which include more than 30 rookies. Rookie-only rankings and more specific analysis about them can be found in my dynasty rookie rankings.
As always, you can find these and other rankings at PFF's main rankings page, including positional rankings sortable by league format and fantasy analyst. I'll provide commentary on the first 132 players here.
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Last updated: Aug. 26, 2021
| Rank | Position | Name | Team | Position Rank |
| 1 | RB | Christian McCaffrey | Panthers | RB1 |
| 2 | RB | Dalvin Cook | Vikings | RB2 |
| 3 | RB | Alvin Kamara | Saints | RB3 |
| 4 | RB | Derrick Henry | Titans | RB4 |
| 5 | WR | Davante Adams | Packers | WR1 |
| 6 | RB | Jonathan Taylor | Colts | RB5 |
| 7 | WR | Tyreek Hill | Chiefs | WR2 |
| 8 | WR | Justin Jefferson | Vikings | WR3 |
| 9 | RB | Saquon Barkley | Giants | RB6 |
| 10 | WR | Stefon Diggs | Bills | WR4 |
| 11 | RB | Austin Ekeler | Chargers | RB7 |
| 12 | WR | Calvin Ridley | Falcons | WR5 |
Christian McCaffrey still leads the way despite missing most of the 2020 season. He led all skill players in fantasy points in 2019 and was on top again during the three weeks he was healthy in 2020. Dalvin Cook isn’t far behind considering the combination of production, age and team context. A case could be made for Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry or Alvin Kamara to join the top, but each player has at least one red flag. Barkley’s injury history is a concern, as is Henry’s age and the Saints' offense losing Drew Brees.
Jonathan Taylor is the only second-year back to find his way into the top 12. The former Badger led his class in overall PFF grade, rushing attempts, yards and touchdowns. Marlon Mack’s return might hurt Taylor’s production a little in the short term, as will injuries to his offensive line and quarterback, but his long-term outlook is the brightest.
At wide receiver, there is plenty of excellent talent, but Davante Adams and Tyreek Hill benefit from playing with MVP quarterbacks who still operate at an elite level. This keeps the two wide receivers ahead of the pack despite being a few years older.
Justin Jefferson comes in third after his incredible rookie season. His 1,400 receiving yards and 35 explosive catches were the most for a rookie receiver in the last 15 seasons. It’s not clear who his quarterback will be a few years from now, but he should be able to find success regardless. It’s rare to find someone who is already this accomplished in the NFL at just 22 years old.
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