Drafting a player in fantasy football who is injury-prone or has had a history of injuries can come with significant risks. While these players may have great talent and potential, their injury history can negatively impact their performance and availability during the fantasy football season. Some key risks associated with drafting injury-prone players are:
- Missed Games: Players with a history of injuries are more likely to miss games during the season due to recurring or new injuries. This is frustrating for fantasy owners who rely on consistency to dominate their league.
- Reduced Performance: Even if injury-prone players manage to play through minor injuries, their performance on the field will be compromised. They might not be as effective as they were before the injuries, leading to lower fantasy points.
- Reinjury Potential: Past injuries increase the risk of reinjury. Players who have suffered from certain injuries may be more susceptible to experiencing the same injury again, which can result in prolonged absences from games and thus less fantasy points.
- Uncertain Return Timelines: Injuries can be unpredictable, and players may take longer to recover than initially anticipated. This uncertainty can leave fantasy owners with an inactive roster spot and no clear timetable for the player's return.
- Wasted Draft Capital: If you invest an early draft pick in an injury-prone player who ends up getting injured and missing significant time, it can severely hamper your team's performance. You might miss out on more durable and productive players available in the same draft range.
- Frustration and Stress: Owning injury-prone players can be frustrating and stressful. Constantly monitoring injury reports and dealing with lineup adjustments is a pain in the rear!
While there is an element of risk in any fantasy football draft, it's essential to balance the potential reward of drafting a talented player with injury concerns against the potential drawbacks. If you decide to draft an injury-prone player, consider your team's overall depth and the availability of suitable backup options. Additionally, staying informed about injury updates and news during the season can help you make more informed decisions about your roster and potential trades or waiver wire pickups.