Here's a few helpful tips when you do your draft or drafts this weekend:

1. Don't feel the need to go running back/running back with your first two picks: That theory is about dead. Why take Willie Parker when you could end up with someone like Tony Romo or Reggie Wayne, who will probably outscore "Fast Willie" in fantasy points this season. Chances are, a decent running back can be had in the third, fourth or even fifth round for your No. 2.

2. Don't be afraid to take a quarterback in Round 1: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning and Tony Romo are all legitimate first round selections, even with the injury concerns of both Brady and Manning. If your league's scoring system awards 6 points for TD passes, then pounce on one of these QBs.

3. Don't overvalue rookies, even for you keeper leagues: It happens every year, the hot-shot rookie is taken in the first few rounds so that that owner can keep him for the next few years. In one league I was in, Calvin Johnson went with the first overall pick (after all teams kept three players). This year, it appears Darren McFadden is getting all the hype, and a lot fantasy services have him rated pretty high. Don't fall into that trap. Don't rely on a rookie as your starter unless you absolutely have no other choice. Let him prove himself for a week or two before you rely on him.

4. Avoid kickers until the very end: Even if you have to take two kickers instead of one, use your last two picks on them. If not, then take your kicker with the last pick. Some guy will jump on a kicker in the 10th round, and then every other owner will panic and start the dreaded "run on kickers." Don't be that owner this year. Shore up your bench/depth first at other positions before taking your kicker(s).

5. Wait at least 10 rounds before snagging defense: A great defensive team could be the difference in wins and losses. A defense that consistantly scores 15 points will help you win those close games and could be a difference maker when you reach the playoffs, or in that points race. However, taking a defense early usually seems to bite you in the rear. Wait at least 10 rounds before you snag a defense. Taking a defense that is not only a good unit, but also has a good special teams unit is a must.

6. Know your leagues scoring system and bylaws: Just because ESPN ranks 8 of the first 10 players to be running backs doesn't mean you should, especially in a league where TD passes are 10 points. If your league doesn't award a point per reception, that not only devalues running backs, but also wide receivers. Also, make sure you know before the draft whether your league will be a keeper league or not ... that will be a big difference in whether you take Tomlinson or Peterson with that top pick.

7. Don't oversaturate yourself with too much information: Toting five different fantasy service rankings to your draft defeats the whole purpose. You'll be scrambling through hundreds of sheets to find that No. 3 receiver as the time ticks down. It's good to look at more than one service, but use those to make your own rankings. The guy ESPN says is a stiff could be a stud, according to CBS, or decent, according to NFL.com. Keep it simple, stupid.

8. Be careful how many leagues you join: This year, I am a sole owner in three leagues and a co-owner in a fourth. I try not to go over four leagues per year, because I know my limits. Don't join additional leagues if you don't feel you have the proper time to devote to each. If you are a rookie, stick to one league first until you feel you are comfortable with the game. Then, try to take on additional leagues.

9. Keep it civil: The downfall of many leagues is when trash talk goes overboard. After a while, a draft can become so tension-filled, that you can hear a pin drop. If a guy (or gal) makes a stupid pick, let that person know about it, but don't insult that person's family or hygene or appearance along with it. Fantasy football is what it is, "fantasy." Don't let that fantasy become your reality, or else everyone suffers.

10. Have fun: The draft happens once a year. It's like a party, with food, beverages and friends. It's OK to enjoy it for what it is. Don't take it too seriously, but at the same time, don't take it too lightly. You're in it to win it, remember. But one spoil sport ruins the whole experience, so keep that in mind. Oh, and if you drink some beers, keep it in moderation. Those late-round picks after about six beers get pretty bad.

Have a safe and fun draft!