6 players to avoid at your Fantasy Football draft

Fantasy football is as popular as it has ever been. From daily fantasy to dynasty leagues, there is something out there for every football fan. Each draft season, players are given an average draft position (ADP) that gauges which pick they come off the board in drafts.

This year, several players are being selected higher than I would ever consider taking them. Whether it be from a decline in talent, injury risks, or a lack of opportunities… each person on this list should be avoided at your fantasy football draft. All ADPs can be found at FantasyPros.com.

Fantasy Football Name To Avoid No. 1: Travis Etienne, RB, Jaguars

ADP: 43 (RB14)

Travis Etienne was a third-rounder in most drafts last season. He finished as the RB16 in full PPR leagues, turning in a solid effort as he returned from an Achilles tear. One would assume Etienne is due for an uptick in usage with another offseason of health under his belt. However, the 2023 NFL Draft threw a wrench in things.

At the event, the Jaguars selected Tank Bigsby out of Auburn. The former four-star running back forced a whopping 151 missed tackles in his three-year stint with the Tigers. He brings an NFL frame and a workhorse motor to the NFL, casting doubt on Etienne’s ability to finish as a strong RB2 in fantasy football.

Head coach Doug Pederson loves to rotate his running backs — which is good for the longevity of his players — but a nightmare for fantasy owners. It is unclear how much Bigsby will play as a rookie, but given Pederson’s prior management of ball carriers, it is probably best to avoid this backfield altogether. Or maybe take a late-round flyer on Tank if your fellow managers let him slide down the board.