Every year fantasy football enthusiasts scramble to build the perfect roster, but not every headline name deserves a spot on a championship‑caliber lineup. In the latest edition of the author’s ‘Never Again Team,’ a handful of players are flagged as risky investments for the 2026 season, each for reasons that range from injury histories to off‑field distractions.
Why Some Stars Are Best Left on the Bench
Quarterback Jaxson Dart tops the list of concerns, not only because of a relatively thin college pedigree but also due to a propensity for injuries that have already limited his availability in recent seasons.
Running back Christian McCaffrey, now entering his age‑30 campaign, carries a heavy injury ledger that makes his workload a ticking time bomb, especially in a season where depth at the position is thin.
At the Steelers’ backfield, Jaylen Warren finds himself in a crowded rotation, with veteran Rico Dowdle poised to claim a larger share of carries, reducing Warren’s upside.
Wide receiver Rashee Rice arrives with off‑field distractions and a recent knee surgery, both of which cast doubt on his ability to stay healthy and productive.
Jameson Williams has shown flashes of brilliance but his performance has been erratic, making him a volatile option for fantasy lineups.
Veteran DJ Moore, while still on a potent offense, is viewed by many analysts as overrated; the team's tendency to spread the ball thinly dilutes his weekly ceiling.
Finally, tight end Sam LaPorta has battled injuries over the past two seasons, leaving fantasy owners wary of his reliability.
The Bottom Line
The recurring theme across these cautionary tales is the importance of weighing upside against durability; in fantasy football, a single missed game can cost a championship, so prudent drafting is essential.