Steer Clear: Wide Receivers to Avoid in Fantasy Football

Alright, fantasy football enthusiasts, let's dive into the world of wide receivers and discuss some guys you might want to avoid drafting this season. Remember, this isn't about bashing their skills, but helping you make informed decisions for your fantasy team. Let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and wide receivers to avoid fantasy football.

The Injury Prone

Michael Thomas

Oh, the irony. A year after breaking the NFL's single-season receptions record, Michael Thomas finds himself on this list. But, guys, let's face it - injuries have plagued him the past two seasons. In 2020, he played just seven games due to ankle issues, and he's still recovering from that injury. The Saints also traded away his QB, Drew Brees, and there's no guarantee Jameis Winston or Taysom Hill can replicate Brees' production. It's best to avoid the risk and look for healthier options.

Odell Beckham Jr.

Once a fantasy football darling, Odell Beckham Jr. has been a major disappointment in recent years. Injuries have limited him to just 10 games over the past two seasons, and when he has played, he's failed to produce at the level we've come to expect. The Browns' offense has also been more focused on their ground game and tight end, Austin Hooper. OBJ's high draft cost and injury risk make him a wide receiver to avoid.

The Inconsistent

Amari Cooper

Amari Cooper has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency has been his Achilles' heel. In his five seasons with the Raiders and Cowboys, he's only topped 1,000 receiving yards twice. He's also been a touchdown-or-bust player, scoring more than six TDs in a season just once. With Dak Prescott's injury, Cooper's value takes a hit. Consider other options before drafting him.

T.Y. Hilton

T.Y. Hilton has been a model of consistency when healthy, but the key word here is "healthy." He's missed 11 games over the past three seasons due to various injuries. When he's played, he's been productive, but the Colts' offense is now focused on running the ball and utilizing their tight ends. Hilton's inconsistency and the Colts' shift in offensive philosophy make him a wide receiver to avoid.

The Situationally Challenged

Allen Lazard

Allen Lazard burst onto the scene in 2020, catching 40 passes for 631 yards and scoring six TDs. But, guys, let's pump the brakes. He's still a relatively unproven commodity, and the Packers' offense is built around Aaron Jones and Davante Adams. Lazard is more of a depth option who benefits from injuries. Don't draft him as a starter.

Diontae Johnson

Diontae Johnson has shown promise, but he's also shown a knack for dropping passes (he led the NFL in drops in 2020). The Steelers' offense is also built around their running game and tight end, Eric Ebron. With JuJu Smith-Schuster and Chase Claypool ahead of him on the depth chart, Johnson's production is too unpredictable to rely on.

The Overhyped

Jaylen Waddle

Jaylen Waddle is one of the most hyped rookie wide receivers in recent memory, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. He's joining a Dolphins offense that ranked 28th in passing yards in 2020 and has a QB situation that's still up in the air. Waddle's big-play ability is enticing, but there are safer rookie options and proven veterans who can provide more consistent production.

Rashod Bateman

Rashod Bateman is another rookie wide receiver generating buzz, but he's joining a Ravens offense that's more focused on the run game and tight end, Mark Andrews. The Ravens also have Marquise Brown and Sammy Watkins ahead of him on the depth chart. Bateman's upside is undeniable, but there are safer rookie options and proven veterans who can provide more consistent production.

Final Thoughts

Alright, guys, we've covered some wide receivers to avoid in fantasy football this season. Remember, this isn't about hating on these players - it's about helping you make informed decisions. There are plenty of other wide receivers out there who can provide consistent production and help you win your league. So, do your research, stay informed, and good luck this fantasy football season!