Articles & Features
How to Make Smart Bets on NFL Draft Predictions and Improve Your Winning Chance
Photo: Jan 1, 2024; Tampa, FL, USA; LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier (13) throws the ball under pressure from Wisconsin Badgers linebacker C.J. Goetz (98) during the second half at the Reliaquest Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports

How to Make Smart Bets on NFL Draft Predictions and Improve Your Winning Chance

The NFL remains one of the most popular competitions in the world of sports. One of the big aspects of the sport is the draft phase where teams recruit new players.

This event draws in a large number of viewers and also provides betting opportunities. If you wish to learn more about making NFL draft predictions, you're on the right page. Our bet experts have revealed all you need to know in this guide.

Understanding How the NFL Draft Betting Works

The NFL draft is an event where the best of the best college players are selected to join NFL teams. It's a popular betting event; people even bet on which team will pick up who and where a player might end up. Bookies provide options of all types, each with its respective odds. To make smart wagers, you need to know what is on offer. Here are some common bets to make:

  • Overall Pick: Betting on a player to be drafted 1st overall.
  • Specific Draft Position: A type of prop that places money on a specific draft position of a player.
  • Team to Draft a Player: Betting on which team will select one player.
  • Over/Under on Draft Position: Betting whether a player is drafted before or after the number set by the sportsbooks.

Essential Tips for Betting on NFL Draft Outcomes

Several factors can help you bet on NFL draft outcomes. Our sports betting experts at BetZillion offer all you need to know about placing wagers and have provided these tips:

  • Research: Knowledge is power. Reading information from credible sources and reliable analysts who have a deep knowledge of the team’s requirements and players’ potential is the best way to catch up.
  • Get to know the teams. Everybody has gaps to fill. The logic is simple — determine what positions they are likely targeting and how that lines up with the players available.
  • Keep tabs on the players: Check out how the college stars stack up in the position rankings in their combine and pro days. A player's stock can shoot up or tank based on how they perform in these events.
  • Look at past drafts: History can give you hints. Some teams just love drafting certain positions or types of players. Knowing these patterns might give you an edge.

Evaluating Player Performance and Team Needs for Better Bets

If you wish to place smart bets, you must evaluate not just individual performance but team needs. Some of the main aspects to look at:

Player Performance

Evaluate college careers of players, with numbers and awards and big moments in games. NFL combine results, like 40-yard dash times and bench press reps, are similarly telling of a player's athleticism and physical readiness for the NFL.

Team Needs

Examine what issues each team has as far as their roster goes. This includes evaluating recent trades, free agent signings, and injuries. Teams that have obvious needs at a few positions will try to meet those in the draft.

Tried-and-True Strategies to Boost NFL Draft Betting Success

Here are some strategies to improve your NFL draft betting success:

  • Different types of Bets: Spread your bets among different markets. Piling all your wager on one outcome is not the best step but rather, you should always try and bet on several players or sports betting options.
  • Utilize inside information: This means following both insiders and beat reporters who often have connections to those inside executives and scouts. Their insights could give you information that is almost impossible to obtain otherwise.
  • Stay flexible: Prepare to bet on your new learnings. Things can change in a hurry during drafting, and those who are most equipped to react quickly will come out on top.

Risk Management: Betting Responsibly on NFL Draft Predictions

Responsible gambling and good bankroll management are always important. Use the following tactics to manage risk:

  • Commit to a Budget:

Set the amount of money you are willing to spend and resolve not to go over budget. Never gamble what you cannot afford to lose.

  • Emotional betting:

Decisions must not be made on emotions. Instead, they should be based on research and analytics. You should never bet on your favorite team/player unless the data says so.

  • Take Breaks:

If you find out that you have started to take things too seriously and are chasing wins like anything, consider taking breaks. A healthy balance is important.

Final Thoughts

Betting on the NFL draft is as straightforward as it can be. You only have to follow the teams and do your research, and you're good to go. All the tips we've provided in this guide can also go a long way in helping you make smarter bets in the long run.