Fantasy Players to Avoid in 2023: A Casual Guide for Savvy Managers

Alright, guys, it's that time of the year again! We're diving headfirst into fantasy sports season, and you know what that means – it's time to start drafting! But before you go all-in on your favorite players, let's talk about some fantasy players to avoid in 2023. We're here to help you make informed decisions and set your team up for success, so grab a snack, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and fantasy players to avoid.

Why Should You Consider Avoiding Certain Players?

Before we dive into the list, let's chat about why you might want to avoid certain players. It's not just about being negative, Nancy; it's about setting realistic expectations and maximizing your team's potential. By knowing which players might underperform, you can make better decisions with your draft picks and waiver wire moves.

Fantasy Players to Avoid in 2023: A Closer Look

Quarterbacks

Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings

Kirk Cousins has been a solid fantasy QB in recent years, but 2023 might be the year he finally jumps the shark. With a new head coach and offensive coordinators, the Vikings' scheme could change dramatically. Plus, Cousins is coming off a season where he threw more interceptions than touchdowns for the first time in his career. It's time to start looking for other options under center.

Jared Goff, Detroit Lions

Jared Goff's fantasy stock has been on a steady decline since his breakout 2018 season. Last year, he finished as the QB24 in fantasy points, and there's no reason to believe he'll suddenly turn it around in 2023. The Lions' receiving corps is unproven, and the team's run-first approach under new head coach Dan Campbell won't help Goff's fantasy value.

Running Backs

Saquon Barkley, New York Giants

Saquon Barkley has been a fantasy disappointment since his rookie season, and 2023 might be the final nail in his coffin. The Giants' offensive line is a mess, and Barkley's injury history is well-documented. With a crowded backfield and a new head coach who loves to throw the ball, Barkley's upside is limited. It's time to find a safer option at RB.

David Montgomery, Chicago Bears

David Montgomery has never lived up to his first-round draft capital, and his fantasy stock took a hit when the Bears traded for Khalil Herbert. Montgomery is still the RB1 in Chicago, but his workload and efficiency are likely to decrease with Herbert in the mix. Plus, the Bears' offense is a mess, and Montgomery's fantasy value is tied to his team's success.

Wide Receivers

D.J. Moore, Carolina Panthers

D.J. Moore has been a consistent fantasy WR in recent years, but his value is set to plummet in 2023. The Panthers' offense is a dumpster fire, and Moore's target share is likely to decrease with the addition of rookie WR Jonathan Mingo. Moore is still a solid WR2, but his ADP is too high for his expected production.

Terry McLaurin, Washington Commanders

Terry McLaurin has been a fantasy WR1 in recent years, but his value is set to decline in 2023. The Commanders' offense is a mess, and McLaurin's target share is likely to decrease with the addition of rookie WR Jahan Dotson. Plus, McLaurin's injury history is a concern, and his ADP is too high for his expected production.

Tight Ends

Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons

Kyle Pitts was a fantasy darling in his rookie season, but his value has taken a hit in recent years. The Falcons' offense is a mess, and Pitts' target share is likely to decrease with the addition of rookie WR Drake London. Plus, Pitts' injury history is a concern, and his ADP is too high for his expected production.

George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers

George Kittle has been a fantasy TE1 in recent years, but his value is set to decline in 2023. The 49ers' offense is run-heavy, and Kittle's target share is likely to decrease with the addition of rookie WR Brandon Aiyuk. Plus, Kittle's injury history is a concern, and his ADP is too high for his expected production.

Final Thoughts

Alright, guys, that's our list of fantasy players to avoid in 2023. Remember, avoiding certain players isn't about being negative – it's about setting realistic expectations and maximizing your team's potential. By knowing which players might underperform, you can make better decisions with your draft picks and waiver wire moves.

So, what do you think? Are there any players you're avoiding in your fantasy drafts this year? Let us know in the comments, and good luck in your leagues!