As the 2026 NFL season draws near, fantasy football enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts. While many players are being targeted for their potential, some are best left off your draft board. This article highlights several players who may not be worth the investment this season, despite their past performances or current hype.
First on the list is quarterback Drake Maye of the New England Patriots. Although Maye has shown promise as a future NFL star, his value as a fantasy asset in 2026 is questionable. The quarterback position is loaded with talent this season, making it wise to wait for later rounds to draft a quarterback. Maye has impressive stats, including over 4,400 passing yards and 31 touchdowns last season, but with a wealth of comparable options available, investing a high draft pick in him may not be the best strategy.
Running back Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles also raises concerns. After a stellar 2024 season where he averaged 22.2 fantasy points per game, Barkley’s performance dipped significantly in 2025, finishing as RB14. Now entering his age-29 season, his explosive potential seems diminished. Although he remains a recognizable name, drafting Barkley as RB8 in the second round may not yield the returns fantasy managers hope for, especially with younger, more dynamic running backs available.
Wide receiver George Pickens of the Dallas Cowboys is another player to approach with caution. After a breakout season in 2025 where he recorded 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns, Pickens is now under pressure to replicate that success while playing on a franchise tag. With a healthy CeeDee Lamb alongside him, the competition for targets could limit Pickens’ upside, making his current draft position less appealing.
DJ Moore, recently traded to the Buffalo Bills, presents a similar dilemma. Once a top fantasy receiver with the Chicago Bears, Moore's efficiency has declined sharply, and his transition to a new team may not guarantee a return to form. While he has the potential to thrive under head coach Joe Brady, the crowded receiving corps in Buffalo could hinder his production, making him a risky pick in the third round.
Another player to watch is Alec Pierce of the Indianapolis Colts. After securing a long-term deal, expectations are high for Pierce to step up as the team’s top receiver following Michael Pittman Jr.'s departure. However, Pierce's injury history and lack of consistent target volume raise red flags. He has never surpassed 83 targets in a season, and his inability to earn significant targets could limit his fantasy potential.
Tight end Dalton Kincaid of the Buffalo Bills has shown flashes of brilliance, but his limited snap counts and route participation raise concerns about his ability to produce consistently. Despite his impressive yards per route run, Kincaid's lack of opportunity makes him a risky investment in drafts. Similarly, Isaiah Likely of the New York Giants has yet to prove himself as a reliable fantasy option, with a history of low target volume and competition for snaps.
In summary, as fantasy football managers prepare for the 2026 season, it’s crucial to evaluate these players carefully. While they may have had success in the past, various factors such as team dynamics, injuries, and competition could impact their fantasy viability. Avoiding these players in your drafts could lead to a more successful fantasy season.
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