Fantasy Football Risks: Overvalued Running Backs to Avoid in 2026
As the 2026 fantasy football season looms, analysts are already flagging a handful of running backs whose draft profiles may be inflated by past flashes rather than sustained production.
TreVeyon Henderson, who burst onto the scene with the New England Patriots, posted a 9.8 PPR average when Rhamondre Stevenson was sidelined, but that figure drops to a modest RB33 when the full season is considered. The spike reflects a narrow window of opportunity rather than a reliable workload.
Chuba Hubbard’s 2025 campaign ended as the RB40 in points per game, a steep decline that saw him lose his starter’s role to Rico Dowdle and now face a fresh challenge from Jonathon Brooks. The Panthers’ backfield appears poised for a reshuffle, making Hubbard’s upside uncertain.
Bucky Irving’s career has been punctuated by injuries, and his 2025 efficiency metrics slid noticeably as a result. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense, while potent, may not afford him the consistent touches needed to rebound.
RJ Harvey offers a contrasting profile: a reliable pass‑catcher who struggled to generate explosive runs and ranked low in yards after contact. With J.K. Dobbins returning and rookie Jonah Coleman in the mix, his path to a featured role is far from guaranteed.
The common thread among these four players is a disconnect between flash‑in‑the‑pan moments and the durability required for a full season. Drafting them early in 2026 could expose managers to volatility at a position where depth is increasingly prized.