In fantasy football, there’s nothing more frustrating than a player who turns out to be a liability in your lineup. You can handle the occasional underperformance from a superstar, but when a fringe starter contributes to your loss, it’s infuriating. Fantasy managers must strive to avoid these disappointments at all costs, especially as we head into the critical weeks of the season.
Last week, we highlighted players like C.J. Stroud, Nick Chubb, and DK Metcalf as potential bench candidates. If you took our advice and benched them, congratulations! If not, you might be feeling the sting of regret. But fear not—Week 16 brings fresh matchups and new opportunities to analyze. The goal remains the same: steer clear of those lineup landmines that can sabotage your chances of victory.
Week 16 Fantasy Football Rankings
QBs | RBs | WRs | TEs | D/ST | Kickers
Fantasy QB Busts Week 16
Michael O’Hara: Bo Nix, Denver Broncos — Bo Nix’s early-season fantasy appeal was largely due to his rushing ability. However, he hasn’t scrambled much lately, thanks to solid offensive line play. Since Week 8, he hasn’t scored more than four fantasy points from rushing. If Nix is relying solely on his arm against the Chargers, he may struggle. Los Angeles boasts the league’s No. 9 pass defense and ranks 8th in EPA per dropback. Expect this divisional matchup to be dictated by strong defensive play.
Ed Williams: Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers — After a promising return from an ankle injury, Herbert’s performance has taken a dip. Following the injury to J.K. Dobbins and Herbert’s own struggles, he faced a tough outing against Tampa Bay, throwing for only 195 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Now, he faces the Broncos, who allow the 6th-fewest points to quarterbacks. It’s a risky play this week.
Vinnie Iyer: Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders — Daniels has had a fantastic rookie season, but he struggled against the Eagles in Week 11. While he may still be your best option, prepare for potential disappointment against a tough defense.
Fantasy RB Busts Week 16
O’Hara: Brian Robinson Jr., Washington Commanders — Robinson Jr. is primarily a rusher, and that could be a problem against the Philadelphia defense. The Eagles rank 7th in rushing yards allowed per game and have given up the 3rd-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. If the Eagles’ offense puts the Commanders in a position to abandon the run, Robinson could be in for a tough day.
Williams: Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs — Pacheco has yet to find his stride since returning from injury. With Kareem Hunt now in the mix, he’s not getting the bell cow workload he needs. His highest yardage since returning is just 55 yards, and he hasn’t scored a touchdown. Facing the Texans, who allow the 4th-fewest points to running backs, doesn’t help his case.
Iyer: Joe Mixon, Houston Texans — Mixon’s recent struggles culminated in a disappointing performance against the Dolphins. Now, he faces the Chiefs, who excel at limiting rushing, receiving, and scoring opportunities for running backs. While you may have to start him, prepare for low-end RB2 numbers.
Fantasy WR Busts Week 16
O’Hara: DK Metcalf, Seattle Seahawks — Metcalf’s target share has dwindled to just 18.4% over the last month, and he finds himself in a tough spot this week. With Geno Smith’s knee injury, there’s a chance Sam Howell could be under center. Metcalf thrives on explosive plays, and without a reliable quarterback, he may struggle to reach his fantasy ceiling.
Williams: Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions — While Williams can be a game-changer with just one catch, this week’s matchup against the Bears may limit his production. In their last meeting, he managed only 28 yards on five catches. The Bears are stingy against outside receivers, suggesting a bigger day for Amon-Ra St. Brown and Sam LaPorta.
Iyer: Zay Flowers, Baltimore Ravens — Flowers has fallen to the bottom of WR3 rankings, and his previous outing against the Steelers was underwhelming. With Lamar Jackson throwing for big numbers last week, Flowers still managed only 6 catches for 53 yards. He may be better off riding the bench this week.
Fantasy TE Busts Week 16
O’Hara: Tucker Kraft, Green Bay Packers — Kraft’s role in the Packers’ offense has been inconsistent at best. He’s been held to a single-digit target share in three of the last five games. With such volatility, he’s become a touchdown-or-bust option, and the matchup against the Saints isn’t ideal for finding the end zone.
Williams: Cade Otton, Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Otton’s production has dipped since Mike Evans returned. While he’s still running routes, he’s not seeing the targets he enjoyed previously. The Cowboys allow just 8.8 points per game to tight ends, and Otton may fall below that threshold.
Iyer: Jonnu Smith, Miami Dolphins — Smith has had a surprising rise this season, but he’s likely to face a tough matchup against Fred Warner and the 49ers’ defense. Expect a scoreless outing from Smith this week.
Fantasy Defense Busts Week 16
O’Hara: New York Jets — The Jets’ defense has struggled lately, culminating in a lackluster performance against the Jaguars. With the Rams on the schedule, confidence in the Jets’ defense is waning.
Williams: Pittsburgh Steelers — Despite Lamar Jackson’s historical struggles against the Steelers, their defense was recently overwhelmed by the Eagles. The Ravens have the offensive firepower to exploit a wounded Steelers’ defense, especially with T.J. Watt potentially limited.
Iyer: Houston Texans — The Texans have performed well this season, but facing the Chiefs, even without Patrick Mahomes, is a daunting task. Their recent lack of turnovers and a sack-free game in Cleveland raises concerns.
As we gear up for Week 16, remember that the right decisions can make or break your fantasy season. Stay informed, stay sharp, and good luck!
