Full Breakdown
2025 Fantasy Football Busts: Key Players to Avoid
8/27/2025, 1:19:30 PM
Overview of Potential Busts
As the 2025 Fantasy football draft season approaches, identifying potential busts is crucial for managers aiming to build a successful roster. Several players, despite their past performances or high average draft positions (ADP), are projected to underperform this season. This article highlights key players to avoid based on expert analyses and statistical evaluations.
Notable Running Back Busts
Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs
Isiah Pacheco, who emerged as a leading rusher for the Chiefs in 2022 and 2023, is now projected as a significant bust for 2025. Coming off an injury-plagued 2024 season, Pacheco's limited route participation (17.9%) and low juke rate (8.4%) raise concerns about his effectiveness. With the Chiefs adding Kareem Hunt and drafting Brashard Smith, Pacheco is ranked as RB40, despite being the 26th running back selected on average in early drafts.
Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara, while coming off a career-high in rushing yards, faces skepticism regarding his value in 2025. The Saints are expected to struggle, which could lead to a pass-heavy offense, potentially limiting Kamara's rushing opportunities. His performance will be closely monitored as the season unfolds.
Quarterback Concerns
Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert's Fantasy production has declined since his impressive rookie season. Operating in a run-heavy offense under head coach Jim Harbaugh, Herbert has not ranked among the top 10 Fantasy quarterbacks in three seasons. The model projects him to finish outside the top 15 in 2025, making him a risky pick.
Tight End Risks
Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs
Travis Kelce, a long-time Fantasy staple, is now viewed as a player to fade at his current ADP. Despite finishing as TE6 in PPR points per game in 2024, his declining production and age (turning 36) raise red flags. The uncertainty surrounding the health of wide receiver Rashee Rice further complicates Kelce's value.
Evan Engram, Denver Broncos
Evan Engram's move to the Broncos comes after a disappointing season and a torn labrum. Although some optimism exists regarding his potential in Sean Payton's offense, historical trends suggest tight ends under Payton rarely finish in the top 10. Engram's current TE8 ADP may be too high given his recent performance.
Wide Receiver Warnings
Tetairoa McMillan, Carolina Panthers
Tetairoa McMillan's potential is limited by a crowded receiving corps, including Adam Thielen and Xavier Legette. With a conservative offensive approach expected under Bryce Young, McMillan's WR19 ADP may not reflect his actual value.
Courtland Sutton, Denver Broncos
Courtland Sutton's production dropped significantly in the latter part of the 2024 season as Marvin Mims gained prominence. With the Broncos likely shifting to a more run-heavy strategy, Sutton's WR24 draft position may not be justified.
Stefon Diggs, New England Patriots
Stefon Diggs, coming off an ACL injury and entering his age-32 season, faces a challenging outlook. The Patriots' uncertain quarterback situation further complicates his potential for a strong season, making his WR39 ADP risky.
Conclusion
As Fantasy football managers prepare for the 2025 draft, being aware of potential busts is essential. Players like Isiah Pacheco, Justin Herbert, and Travis Kelce may not deliver the expected returns, and caution is advised when considering their draft positions. Staying informed and adjusting strategies based on expert insights can help mitigate risks and enhance roster success.
