Fantasy Football Players to Avoid in Every Round

Aug 10, 2026

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

A large part of fantasy football is avoiding landmines. Picking a player early that doesn’t come close to performing at the level of their cost can sink your team. Missing on multiple picks later in your drafts can do the same, leaving you scouring the waiver wire to be competitive. Below is who to avoid in each round.

Round 1 - Jonathan Taylor, RB Colts

It’s tough to pick any first-round player to fade, as they’re all so good. That’s why they’re in the first round. Jonathan Taylor was on a historic pace in 2025 before Daniel Jones’ injuries ended his season and the ceilings of everyone in the offense. Taylor averaged 27.4 Half PPR PPG through Week 10, and 12.6 after. Jones is expected back to start 2026, but it’s not that simple. Jones tore the Achilles in his planting foot, which will limit his arm strength and ability to push the ball downfield. Along with that, the Colts’ premier field stretcher, Alex Pierce, is recovering from offseason surgery and may start the season slow. These combined will allow defenses to crash down and focus on Taylor.

Round 2 - De’Von Achane, RB Dolphins

Like the first round, the second round is chock-full of great players. De’Von Achane is an exceptional player who has been one of the most efficient running backs in the league, and an elite receiver for the position. The big worry for him this year is just how bad the Dolphins offense could be. Miami could easily be one of, if not the lowest, scoring teams in the league. Malik Willis is still an unproven quarterback to a degree, and he has no one to pass to other than Achane. Except, we know rushing quarterbacks throw to their running backs less than others. Finally, there’s a bit of risk that Achane gets shut down at the end of the season if the Dolphins are that bad.