Who Not to Draft in Fantasy Football: A Friendly Guide for the 2022 Season
Hello, football fanatics! Welcome back to another exciting season of fantasy football. We know you're itching to draft your dream team, but hold your horses. Before you start picking your players, let's talk about who not to draft in fantasy football this year. We're keeping it casual, so grab a beer (or soda, we don't judge) and let's dive in. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and who not to draft fantasy football.
Why Should You Care Who Not to Draft?
You might be thinking, "Why should I care who not to draft? I just want to win!" Well, friend, knowing who to avoid can save you from making costly mistakes. By steering clear of these players, you'll have more room to snatch up sleepers and solidify your bench. So, let's get started!
The Injury Prone
1. Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
Oh, Saquon, how we've missed you. But let's be real, guys, he's been more injured than healthy the past two seasons. In 2020, he played in just two games due to a torn ACL, and last year, he only managed to suit up for 13 games. We love his talent, but we can't trust him to stay on the field. There are plenty of other reliable RBs out there, so why risk it?
2. Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Miami Dolphins
Tua had a promising rookie season, but he's already spent time on the IR with a thumb injury and a fractured rib. Plus, he's taking hits like a pinball out there. We get it, he's tough, but we're not drafting a QB who's a walking injury report.
The Disappointing Quarterbacks
3. Russell Wilson, QB, Denver Broncos
Russell Wilson is a future Hall of Famer, but he's not the same QB he was a few years ago. Last season, he threw just 25 TDs and had a career-low 9.0 yards per attempt. He's also in a new offense with a new team, and we're not sure how that's going to shake out. There are safer QB options available, so why not let someone else draft Wilson and hope for the best?
4. Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams
Stafford had a great first year in LA, but let's not forget he was playing with the Rams' awesome weapons and a top-notch defense. Now, he's got a new coach and a banged-up receiving corps. We're not convinced he can replicate last year's success, so we're steering clear.
The RBs Who Aren't Worth the Risk
5. Derrick Henry, RB, Tennessee Titans
Derrick Henry is a beast, but he's also a 6'3", 247-pound human battering ram who's logged a ton of carries the past few years. He's missed time with injuries the past two seasons, and we're worried he's one hit away from the IR. There are plenty of other workhorse RBs available, so why not grab one who's fresher?
6. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys
Zeke's been a solid fantasy producer, but he's also dealt with injuries and has seen his touches decrease with the emergence of Tony Pollard. The Cowboys' offense is looking more pass-heavy this year, and we're not sure Zeke's got enough tread left on those tires to be a reliable RB1.
The Wide Receivers to Avoid
7. Davante Adams, WR, Las Vegas Raiders
Adams was a fantasy beast in Green Bay, but now he's in Las Vegas with a new QB and a new offense. We're not sure how Derek Carr and Adams' chemistry will develop, and we're not drafting a WR1 without knowing what we're getting. There are plenty of other proven WRs available, so let someone else take the risk on Adams.
8. A.J. Brown, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Brown is an incredible talent, but he's also dealt with injuries the past two seasons. Now he's in Philly with a new QB and a new offense. We love his potential, but we're not drafting him as a WR1 until we see how things shake out.
The Tight Ends to Pass On
9. George Kittle, TE, San Francisco 49ers
Kittle's been a top-tier TE when healthy, but he's missed 14 games the past two seasons due to injuries. We love his talent, but we can't trust him to stay on the field. There are plenty of other reliable TEs available, so why risk it?
10. Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons
Pitts had a solid rookie season, but he's still learning the ropes at the NFL level. Plus, the Falcons' offense is a mess right now. We're not drafting a TE1 who's got so much uncertainty surrounding him.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, folks! Our list of players to avoid in your fantasy football drafts this year. Remember, the key to winning your league is drafting smart and avoiding the landmines. Now go out there and crush your drafts!
Stay tuned for more fantasy football tips and tricks, and until next time, happy drafting!