Seven Players I’m Refusing to Draft in Fantasy Football This Season
The other day, I watched a YouTube video about the upcoming 2024 fantasy football draft, where the host listed seven players he wouldn’t draft. Here’s what he had to say. As we gear up for another exciting fantasy football season, it’s essential to have a clear strategy for your draft. This includes knowing which players to target and which ones to avoid in fantasy football. Today, I’m sharing my list of seven players I’m refusing to draft this year, no matter what. While these players might have tantalizing potential, the risks far outweigh the rewards, in my opinion. Now, let’s break down the seven players I’m going to avoid in fantasy football this season.
- Puka Nacua, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Nacua had an astronomical rookie season, putting up numbers that rivaled elite receivers like CeeDee Lamb. With 160 targets, 105 receptions, and 1,486 yards, Nacua benefited greatly from Cooper Kupp’s absence. However, Kupp is back, Matthew Stafford is a year older, and it’s just too much to expect Nacua to replicate those numbers. At his current ADP of WR11, he’s too rich for my blood.
- De’Von Achane, RB, Miami Dolphins
Sitting at RB11 with an ADP of 39th overall, Achane is expensive for a Miami running back. The Dolphins are loaded with offensive weapons, and they’ve added rookie speedster Jaylen Wright to the mix. Achane looked explosive last year, averaging 7.8 yards per carry, but I don’t trust Miami’s commitment to a single running back. The committee approach and injury concerns make Achane a hard pass for me in the 3rd or 4th round.
- DJ Moore, WR, Chicago Bears
Moore is being drafted as if he’ll repeat his WR6 finish from last year, which is highly unlikely. The Bears added Keenan Allen and drafted Rome Odunze, creating a crowded receiver room. With 136 targets last season, Moore’s volume is almost certain to decrease. Factor in a rookie quarterback, and the risk becomes too high for his current ADP of WR17.
- Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers
I’ve been vocal about avoiding CMC, and my reasons are numerous:
– Super Bowl hangover
– Age (28 for a running back)
– Coming off a career year (historically difficult to repeat)
– Just got married (potential for complacency)
– Extremely expensive draft capital
The last time a running back finished as RB1 in consecutive years was Priest Holmes in 2002-2003. McCaffrey is due for regression, and I’m not spending a top-3 pick on him.
- Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Justin Jefferson is incredibly talented, but there are too many red flags at his current ADP of WR4. He’s coming off an injury-shortened season, just got a massive payday, and is dealing with quarterback uncertainty. Whether it’s Sam Darnold or rookie JJ McCarthy under center, I’m not comfortable spending a first-round pick on a receiver in this situation.
- Lamar Jackson, QB, Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson finished as QB2 last year, largely due to his rushing production (821 yards, 5 TDs). However, the addition of Derrick Henry to the backfield is likely to cut into Jackson’s rushing opportunities. Coupled with durability concerns – he played just 12 games in both 2021 and 2022 – Jackson is too risky at his QB4 ADP.
- DK Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Metcalf’s ADP of WR19 (33rd overall) is far too rich for a player in a potential three-headed monster situation. With Tyler Lockett still around and first-round pick Jaxon Smith-Njigba entering the mix, Metcalf’s target share is likely to decrease. Add in questions about Geno Smith’s ability to support multiple fantasy-relevant receivers, and Metcalf becomes a clear avoid for me.
As you prepare for your fantasy football draft, keep these players in mind. While they may have name recognition and past production, the current circumstances make them too risky at their current draft positions. Remember, winning in fantasy is often about minimizing risk and maximizing value.
Remember, success in fantasy football comes down to making informed decisions and having the right strategy. By avoiding these risky players and arming yourself with the best available resources, you’ll be well on your way to hoisting that championship trophy at the end of the season. Keep reading our articles and remember these seven players to avoid in fantasy football
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