Fantasy football
Introduction
Table of Contents
As the fantasy football season reaches the midway point, tough roster decisions loom for managers looking to position their teams for a playoff push. With bye weeks in full swing and injuries hampering several key contributors, the waiver wire has become a crucial avenue for finding replacement options. However, in order to make room for these new additions, sometimes difficult choices must be made regarding players already rostered.
In this article, we’ll take a look at five fantasy football players who have underperformed to the point where they may no longer warrant a roster spot, even in deeper leagues. While cutting ties with high-draft-capital investments is never easy, sometimes it’s necessary to make the tough calls in order to maximize your team’s potential down the stretch.
1. Russell Wilson, QB, Denver Broncos
When the Denver Broncos acquired Russell Wilson in the offseason, fantasy managers were licking their chops at the prospect of adding one of the league’s most consistent and productive quarterbacks to their rosters. However, Wilson’s first season in Denver has been an unmitigated disaster, as he and the Broncos’ offense have failed to find any semblance of rhythm or consistency.
Through eight games, Wilson has thrown for just 1,761 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions, posting a dismal QB20 ranking in fantasy. With Denver’s offense appearing to be beyond repair, it may be time for fantasy managers to cut bait on Wilson and pivot to a more reliable option at the quarterback position.
2. Brandin Cooks, WR, Houston Texans
Brandin Cooks has long been a staple in fantasy football lineups, but his value has taken a significant hit this season playing for the struggling Houston Texans. Despite being the clear focal point of the Texans’ passing attack, Cooks has yet to eclipse the 70-yard mark in a single game and has found the end zone just twice.
With the Texans seemingly destined for another lost season, Cooks’ opportunities could continue to be limited, especially if the team decides to trade him before the deadline. For fantasy managers in need of immediate production, Cooks may be expendable, as there are likely better options available on the waiver wire.
3. Rashod Bateman, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Rashod Bateman entered the 2022 season with lofty expectations, as the second-year wide receiver was poised to take on a larger role in the Baltimore Ravens’ offense. However, Bateman has been plagued by inconsistency and nagging injuries, leaving fantasy managers frustrated with his sporadic production.
Through six games, Bateman has registered just 285 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, failing to capitalize on the absence of Marquise Brown. With the Ravens’ passing attack often overshadowed by their dominant rushing attack, Bateman may be better served as a roster stash rather than a weekly starter, especially in shallower leagues.
4. Michael Carter, RB, New York Jets
After a promising rookie campaign, Michael Carter was expected to take a leap forward as the lead back for the New York Jets in 2022. However, the emergence of Breece Hall has drastically reduced Carter’s fantasy value, as the rookie has firmly established himself as the team’s RB1.
While Carter still has a role to play in the Jets’ offense, his limited touches and touchdown upside make him a difficult start in most fantasy formats. With more explosive options available on the waiver wire, fantasy managers may be better served by cutting ties with Carter and pivoting to a player who can provide more consistent production.
5. Adam Thielen, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen has long been a steady contributor in fantasy football, but his 2022 season has been plagued by injuries and inconsistency. After missing time earlier in the year due to a hamstring issue, Thielen has failed to recapture the form that made him a reliable WR2 in previous seasons.
Through seven games, Thielen has amassed just 388 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, well off the pace he had set in recent years. With the emergence of Justin Jefferson as the clear WR1 in Minnesota, Thielen’s targets and opportunities have diminished, making him a risky fantasy start on a weekly basis. In shallower leagues, it may be prudent to cut bait on Thielen and prioritize players with higher upside.
Conclusion
As the fantasy football season marches on, roster management becomes increasingly crucial for managers looking to position themselves for a playoff run. While cutting ties with high-draft-capital investments is never an easy decision, sometimes it’s necessary to make tough choices in order to maximize your team’s potential.
The players highlighted in this article – Russell Wilson, Brandin Cooks, Rashod Bateman, Michael Carter, and Adam Thielen – have all underperformed to the point where they may no longer warrant a roster spot, even in deeper leagues. By making the difficult decision to part ways with these underperforming assets, fantasy managers can free up valuable roster spots to address more pressing needs and bolster their teams for the stretch run.
As you navigate the treacherous waters of the fantasy football landscape, remember to stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and be willing to make the tough calls when necessary. The path to fantasy glory is paved with tough decisions, but by staying proactive and making the right moves, you can position your team for success in the weeks and months to come.