As fantasy football managers, we all know how important it is to have a solid draft strategy. Whether it's going for the top players in the first few rounds or hunting for value in the later rounds, there's no denying that the draft can make or break your season.

One strategy that has gained popularity in recent years is the auction draft. In an auction draft, managers are given a budget and bid on players to build their team. This allows for a more dynamic and strategic approach to drafting, as managers can target specific players and adjust their budget accordingly.

But how do you determine the value of a player in an auction draft? This is where the concept of "Auction U" comes in.

Auction U is a way of visualizing how the cost of a player at a particular position changes based on the availability of other players within the same tier. For example, let's say you're in an auction draft and you're looking to draft a running back. You've identified three players in the same tier that you're interested in: Player A, Player B, and Player C.

Player A is the most expensive of the three, with an average draft price (ADP) of $50. Player B has an ADP of $40, and Player C has an ADP of $30.

However, as the auction progresses, it becomes clear that Player B is in higher demand than Player A or C. Other managers are bidding aggressively on Player B, driving up his price. Meanwhile, there are several other running backs available who are similar in skill level to Player A and C.

In this scenario, the cost of Player A and C may actually decrease as the auction progresses, since managers who miss out on Player B may turn to them as a backup option. This is where Auction U comes into play. By understanding how the availability of other players in the same tier can impact the price of a particular player, managers can make more informed decisions and avoid overspending on a player who may be available at a lower price later on.

Of course, it's important to keep in mind that Auction U is just one factor to consider when drafting in an auction format. Other factors such as team needs, positional scarcity, and individual player value should also be taken into account.

In conclusion, understanding the concept of Auction U can give fantasy football managers a valuable edge in their auction drafts. By keeping an eye on the availability of other players in the same tier, managers can make informed decisions and avoid overspending on a player who may be available at a lower price later on. Good luck with your auction draft, and may the best team win!