Are you a head-to-head fan who hates total points leagues? Do you think auction leagues are too complicated and snake draft leagues are just right? Maybe you don't want the "hassle" of keeper leagues and like redraft leagues instead.
Well, now is the time to put away your biases and give new things a try. We still have a month before the real games start, and that gives you an opportunity to expand your fantasy resume. If there's a facet of the game you've never tried, seek out one of those leagues. You might find a new style you really enjoy, and it will keep your annual excitement level high.
Even if a format sounds "bad" to you, don't be afraid to give it a shot. I know people who thought a total points league would be boring; now they prefer them. Personally, I didn't like the idea of head-to-head competition until I played in one of those leagues. I still like total points better, but I play in head-to-head leagues as well. I understand why they're fun, but I had to actually play to recognize it.
There are more than a few negatives to fantasy football becoming so mainstream, but there are some positives as well. And one of those positives is your ability to find any type of league featuring any type of system. Shaking things up couldn't be easier. The only thing standing in your way is you, and now is a great time to take on some different challenges.
It doesn't have to be anything too radical. Change your draft strategy by joining a dynasty league, or ditch the draft altogether by trying an auction format. If you've only played in a 12-team league, try a new challenge with a 16-teamer, or -- gasp! -- an eight-team league. Yes, a smaller league has its own challenges and strategies. Everyone thinks they're a cakewalk, until they play in one. They're just different, and you might like it.
Or you might not. I thought adding individual defensive players would be too cumbersome and take away from the fun of the game. And I was right -- for me, anyway. You might find you love it. In any case, I gave it a shot and I'm glad I did. That's what keeps things interesting.
The NFL keeps tinkering with the Pro Bowl because it's boring, nobody cares and the players don't really want to play. But even as they try to add fantasy elements to it, we play a very different game. Your fantasy game is fun and you enjoy it, but you should still tinker with it anyway. I'm not saying to ditch the formats you like, of course. Keep your favorite league and enjoy it like always. But add something different to your game this year by trying a league with elements you're never tried before. You might find you've been missing out on a fun twist, and that could turn a good year into an awesome one.
Have you had a good (or bad) experience trying a different format? Is there a type of fantasy football that interests you but you still haven't tried? Share your thoughts below, and send me a note on Twitter: @vivamurillo.