Fantasy football drafts are exhilarating, filled with anticipation and strategy. But beware—the wrong pick can haunt your season. Let’s dissect the riskiest choices in each round, ensuring you dodge the pitfalls. Buckle up, managers!
Here are the Worst Fantasy Picks by Round in 2024
Saquon Barkley (Round 1)
The Dilemma
Saquon Barkley, the Eagles’ dynamic running back, tantalizes fantasy managers. His blend of speed, agility, and pass-catching prowess is undeniable. However, let’s break it down further:
The Concerns
There are a few, which can really impact Barkley’s performance in the season.
Crowded Offense:
The Giants’ attack features Kenneth Gainwell, AJ Brown, and Dallas Goedert. Touchdown opportunities might be scarce for Barkley.
Health:
Barkley’s 2020 injury lingers. His yards per carry (YPC) dipped from 5.0 in 2019 to 3.8 in 2023.
TD Efficiency:
In 2018, he scored 15 TDs; in 2023, only 10 TDs.
The Verdict
While Barkley’s upside is immense, consider alternatives like Derrick Henry. Don’t overreach—weigh risk and reward carefully.
Sam LaPorta (Round 2)
The Hype
Sam LaPorta, Iowa’s tight end, dazzled in college. His athleticism and red zone potential have fantasy managers buzzing.
The Catch
Trey McBride, another promising tight end, lurks in later rounds. Waiting a round or two might yield LaPorta without sacrificing value. LaPorta’s 2023 stats include 889 yards and 10 TDs.
Patrick Mahomes (Round 3)
The Mahomes Factor
Patrick Mahomes, the magician of the gridiron, boasts jaw-dropping stats. But let’s dig deeper.
The Twist
Kyler Murray, Dak Prescott, and CJ Stroud offer similar productions later. Mahomes’ 2023 season featured 4,183 passing yards, 27 TDs, and 14 interceptions. Draft wisely—QB depth matters.
Stefon Diggs (Round 4)
Past Glory
Stefon Diggs soared in 2020, torching defenses. But there’s more:
The Metrics Dip
His yaradage dipped from 1535 in 2023 to 1183. Now, in Houston, he’s not Josh Allen’s top target. Explore other WRs, such as Chris Godwin.
Malik Nabers (Round 5)
The Daniel Jones Enigma
Jones struggles with consistency. Nabers, the rookie WR, relies on him. Proceed with caution.
Scouting Tip
Watch preseason games. Nabers’ chemistry with Jones will reveal his fantasy potential. In college, Nabers had 45 receptions for 705 yards and 5 TDs.
Jordan Love (Round 6)
The Dilemma
Jordan Love, the Packers’ backup QB, straddles two worlds. His real-life potential is compelling, but…
The Catch
Another player with a few issues to consider.
Rushing Void:
In fantasy, QBs with rushing upside thrive. Love? Not so much. His legs don’t dance like Lamar Jackson’s or Kyler Murray’s.
Aaron Rodgers’ Shadow:
The reigning MVP casts a long one. Love’s playing time hinges on Rodgers’ health and drama.
The Verdict
While Love’s arm talent sparkles, consider other QBs like Jalen Hurts or Ryan Tannehill. They scramble, score, and won’t leave you hanging.
Jonathan Brooks (Round 7)
The Hype
Jonathan Brooks, the Texas Longhorns’ RB, oozes promise. But…
The Reality Check
There are a few issues to consider before picking Brooks.
Injury Cloud:
Brooks limps into fantasy relevance after a major injury. Patience, grasshopper—it might be weeks before he gallops.
Opportunity Cost:
A 7th-rounder is prime real estate. Invest wisely; don’t build on quicksand.
Hollywood Brown (Round 8)
Past Glory
Hollywood Brown’s name echoes with some feats. But…
The Regression Saga
Another player who brings a few concerns to the table as soon as their name is mentioned.
Statistical Slide:
Brown’s yards dipped from 1008 in 2021 to 574 in 2023. Regression alert!
Bateman’s Shadow:
Rashod Bateman looms. Suspended until 2025? The crystal ball is cloudy.
The Move
Explore WRs like Deebo Samuel or Mike Williams. They’re trendier than Brown’s shades.
Christian Watson (Round 9)
Packers’ WR Room Puzzle
Christian Watson enters a crowded room. Packers’ WRs jostle like commuters at rush hour.
The Alternative
Keon Coleman winks from the shadows. Draft him; he’s the cool kid at the party.
49ers Defense (Round 10)
Defense Early? Nah.
The 49ers’ ADP Reality Check isn’t pretty for the Defence. WRs and RBs whisper sweet nothings. Don’t commit too soon.
Conclusion
Remember, drafting is a chess match. Balance risk and reward, and may your picks lead you to glory.
