Top Fantasy Football Players to Avoid in 2026 Drafts

Fantasy football fans are always searching for players who might end up being dead weight on their rosters. The New York Times recently shared a list of players you’ll probably want to steer clear of in the 2026 season.

This article dives into why these players could be risky picks, looking at their past performances, injury issues, and other factors that might mess with your fantasy football plans. If you want the deep dive, you can check out the full article here.

Understanding the Risks of Certain Players

Picking the right players can make or break your fantasy football season. The 2026 season throws some unique curveballs, with a handful of big-name players bringing real risk.

These risks pop up for all sorts of reasons—performance drops, nagging injuries, or maybe a team’s new direction. If you’re serious about fantasy, you’ve got to weigh these things before you draft.

Declining Performance

Some players just don’t have it anymore. Age, the grind of the league, or a new team scheme can all chip away at a guy’s numbers.

Take a running back who used to light up the scoreboard—suddenly, he’s barely getting the ball because the team wants to try something new or a younger player is making waves.

• Age and Wear: As players get older, their physical skills usually take a hit. That can mean fewer big plays and less consistency.
• Team Strategy: A new coach or playbook might sideline a player who used to be the focus, making him a headache for fantasy managers.

Injury-Prone Histories

Football’s brutal, and some guys just can’t stay healthy. Choosing players who always seem to be banged up is a gamble, since they might miss games or play hurt.

That’s a recipe for frustration if you’re counting on them to carry your fantasy squad.

• Frequent Injuries: Some players just can’t shake the injury bug. You never know when they’ll be sidelined again.
• Impact on Performance: Even if they suit up, guys coming off injuries often aren’t at their best. That can tank their fantasy value fast.

Specific Players to Avoid in 2026

The New York Times called out several players to avoid for 2026. They based these picks on past stats, injury track records, and what’s happening with their teams right now.

Veteran Quarterbacks

Veteran quarterbacks bring smarts and leadership, sure, but that doesn’t always translate to fantasy points as the years pile up. Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers have had incredible runs, but in 2026, you might want to think twice about drafting them.

• Tom Brady: Brady’s a legend, no doubt. But as he gets older, there’s a real chance his numbers drop off, making him a risky fantasy pick.
• Aaron Rodgers: Rodgers faces the same issues—age and the ever-present threat of injury could really hurt his value.

Injury-Prone Running Backs

Running backs can make or break a fantasy team, but if they’re always hurt, they’re tough to rely on. Christian McCaffrey and Saquon Barkley both have superstar talent, but their injury histories are hard to ignore.

• Christian McCaffrey: He’s electric when healthy, but he’s missed a lot of games. That makes him a gamble.
• Saquon Barkley: Barkley’s dealt with his fair share of injuries too, and it’s tough to trust he’ll stay on the field all season.

Wide Receivers with Declining Stats

Some wide receivers just aren’t putting up the numbers they used to. Julio Jones and A.J. Green were once fantasy gold, but those days might be behind them.

• Julio Jones: His production’s dropped off lately, which doesn’t exactly inspire confidence for fantasy owners.
• A.J. Green: Green’s stats have taken a hit, and it’s hard to see that changing anytime soon.

Conclusion

In fantasy football, making smart choices really matters. If you know which players come with risks, you can dodge a lot of headaches.

The New York Times article digs into which players to avoid for the 2026 season. It might help you spot trouble before it happens.

If you’re curious and want to see the full breakdown, check out the article here.