The new NFL season is almost upon us and fantasy football leagues all over the world are being set up in anticipation. For ESPN, though, there’s a good reason why people should steer away from Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes when the fantasy drafts commence.
Before learning why the reigning Super Bowl champion is a big no in this season’s fantasy football, there are other guys that shouldn’t be on anyone’s list, according to an article posted by USA Today. Terry McLaurin, wide receiver for the Washington Commanders, may seem like a solid pick, but his potential is hindered by the arrival of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the team’s shift toward a run-first offense. With new short-range targets like Austin Ekeler, McLaurin’s volume could diminish significantly.
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Another player to avoid is Gus Edwards of the Los Angeles Chargers. Listed as a co-RB1, Edwards faces stiff competition from J.K. Dobbins and may struggle to find scoring opportunities, making him a risky choice. Joe Mixon, now with the Houston Texans, has had a solid past but has been deemed inefficient recently. His role could diminish quickly, despite starting the season as the lead back.
Los Angeles Rams’ Puka Nacua has shown promise but is not worth a high draft pick, especially with Cooper Kupp’s return to health. Lastly, Javonte Williams from the Denver Broncos is recovering from an injury and faces competition from Jaleel McLaughlin, who has outperformed him in camp. This could limit Williams’ fantasy value as the season progresses. Avoiding these players may help you build a stronger fantasy team.
The Reason Why Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes Must Not Be Drafted in ESPN Fantasy Football
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Along with the five players listed above, Mahomes should not be considered at all. According to an analysis by Eric Karabell for ESPN, there’s a pretty good reason why the Chiefs quarterback must be left alone in fantasy football for the time being.
“The Bills’ Josh Allen, Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and Eagles’ Jalen Hurts are this year’s positional headliners, each going in the first three rounds of ESPN ADP. It is too early.
Sure, quarterbacks tend to score the most points, but this is about supply versus demand, and depth simply is not there at running back and wide receiver. Wait on quarterbacks in single quarterback, redraft formats, even the best ones. Rinse and repeat,” Karabell wrote.
On the other end of the argument, Mahomes remains a top fantasy option, expected to be drafted as one of the first quarterbacks for most people. With an average draft position around 26.78, he offers elite potential, especially with a strengthened receiving corps featuring new additions like Xavier Worthy and Marquise Brown.
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