The NFL doesn’t stand for not for long for nothing. Whether players have been great for their first couple of years in the league or if they’ve been at it for a while, continued success is never guaranteed. It’s important to get to know these players early on in the offseason to identify who to avoid as the fantasy season approaches. In this article, I’ll do exactly that, highlighting four players to stay away from when it comes to fantasy draft season. For more NFL offseason content, check out my profile HERE.
Big Name NFL Players to Avoid in Fantasy
1. Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers Running Back
McCaffrey’s injury-riddled season was well-documented last year and not without controversy. After unexpectedly missing the first eight games of the season due to Achilles tendinitis, he’d return to the lineup with limited success, playing four games before a knee injury forced him to miss the remainder of the season.
While he’s been known as one of the best receiving backs in league history, injuries dating back even further to last year have put his long-term availability in serious question. At an average draft position of nine, selecting him around there would be a risky investment. Additionally, with a depleted 49ers offense, the defense’s attention will be on McCaffrey more than ever.
2. Tyreek Hill, Miami Dolphins Wide Receiver
While it’s not exactly clear if Tyreek Hill has lost a step, it’s clear he’s no longer happy in Miami and if we know anything about diva receivers, they won’t always give full effort when displeased. After two back-to-back 1,700+ seasons in 2022 and 2023, Hill posted 959 yards in 2024, his lowest since 2019.
Through quarterback injuries and telling the press that he wanted out after the 2024 season finale, it’s clear Hill isn’t truly satisfied being a Dolphin, even if the sides have agreed to stay together for now. Though not his fault, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s health will largely determine the kind of production Hill has. His average draft position has dropped significantly to the fourth round due to this, which could still be considered dangerous.
3. Breece Hall, New York Jets Running Back
Hall was a hot name among players coming into the 2024 season, but subverted expectations to say the least. The former coaching staff didn’t seem to trust him, as he never passed 18 carries in a game. Offensive line injuries certainly did him no favors with key starters like Tyron Smith and Alijah Vera-Tucker missing significant time.
Even with a healthy offensive line, Breece failed to rush for at least 65 yards once and with run-first quarterback Justin Fields entering the picture, Breece’s production, especially near the goal line, is likely to be further limited. While his current average draft position has him in the range of RB2, selecting him is still a shaky proposition.
4. D.K. Metcalf, Pittsburgh Steelers Wide Receiver
Metcalf got exactly what he wanted this offseason: a new contract, though it wasn’t from the Seahawks. Seattle traded him to Pittsburgh in exchange for draft compensation and Metcalf received a contract worth $30 million a season. He’s one of the league’s greatest physical specimens, though his production can be inconsistent, as seen in him not recording 70+ receptions since 2022.
Outside of his abilities, the Steelers quarterback situation remains a mystery even as OTAs are underway. Free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers continues to keep Pittsburgh in the dark and with only veteran Mason Rudolph and rookie Will Howard on the roster, Metcalf has one of the worst quarterback rooms in the whole league. Since Metcalf is by far the best pass catcher on the offense, he could be a solid flex at best, though you’re best suited to look elsewhere.
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