SportsLine's predictive model has built a reputation for spotting underperforming fantasy assets before the season even begins.
In its latest projection for the 2026 campaign, the model flags several high‑profile players who could fall short of expectations, urging drafters to think twice before reaching for them.
Projected busts to watch
The model specifically downgrades New York Giants wideout Malik Nabers, projecting that he will not crack the top‑15 receivers in the upcoming season.
Nabers is considered a risky pick because of a lingering injury and the Giants' anticipated emphasis on a ground‑centric offense, factors that the algorithm weighs heavily.
Buffalo Bills running back James Cook also receives a cautionary note, landing at No 10 among RBs in the model's rankings, suggesting he should be drafted later than his current average draft position.
The algorithm highlights Cook's elevated fumble rate and a lack of elite target volume out of the backfield as primary reasons for the downgrade.
Beyond individual players, the model is also fading one of the first five receivers typically drafted early in 2026 fantasy leagues, ranking him just inside the top ten and labeling him a potential league‑wide bust.
The service encourages readers to explore the complete 2026 rankings and accompanying cheat sheets on its platform, where historical accuracy such as correctly forecasting Terry McLaurin's down season in 2025 adds credibility to the projections.