NOTE: Because there are so many fantasy drafts taking place over the weekend of August 21-23, I wanted to publish my 2026 Shy Away List with all the names first. I’ll add analysis to the so-far unanalyzed players down the list gradually. (And I’ll probably add more names as we go.)
Justin Jefferson
First-round Justin Jefferson drafters are banking on Kyler Murray rejuvenating Minnesota’s passing offense after 2025’s J.J. McCarthy debacle.
Yet eighth-year veteran Murray has never topped 26 touchdown passes in an individual season. 2025 fantasy league winner Trey McBride appeared end-zone allergic in Arizona until Jacoby Brissett rescued McBride from Murray last year.
Jefferson didn’t miss a game in 2025 and finished as fantasy’s WR30. He’s far from quarterback-proof, and I’m betting against Murray being the solution.
I’m taking running backs like Kenneth Walker III and Chase Brown, and generational tight end Brock Bowers, over Jefferson this year.
Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley is 29.5 years old. His yards-per-touch average nosedived from 6.0 in 2024 to 4.5 last season. Renowned Eagles O-Line coach Jeff Stoutland retired in the offseason. Saquon hasn’t reached 40 receptions in either of his two seasons with dual-threat QB Jalen Hurts, who also steals close-in touchdowns via Philly’s patented Tush Push.
Barkley is old, declining, and loses high-value touches because of his quarterback.
My Barkley ranking is only a couple of spots behind his ADP, but I’m drafting around him more often than not.
De’Von Achane
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