Potential IDP Busts for the 2026 Fantasy Football Season

The 2026 fantasy football season is approaching, prompting managers to refine their strategies and assess player roles. Understanding potential risks, especially for players coming off strong seasons, is crucial for effective IDP drafting.

Caleb Downs is expected to play as a nickel back, limiting his upside and placing him in the DB3/4 range rather than the DB2 range where he is often drafted. Meanwhile, Andre Cisco's position on the New York Jets is uncertain, with Dane Belton likely to secure the starting safety role, potentially affecting Cisco's future with the team.

Brian Burns faces challenges after moving to the strong side, which may impact his sack production. Montez Sweat, despite a successful 2025 season, might see a decline in sacks due to increased attention from opposing offenses. Tuli Tuipolutu's production is concerning, as much of it came from a few games, and his tackle consistency is in question.

Devin White's role with the Detroit Lions may limit his effectiveness, as he might not be on the field during passing downs. Leo Chenal is likely to remain in a part-time role, while Tyrel Dodson's starting position with the Miami Dolphins is precarious due to competition from rookies. These factors suggest that many of these players may not meet the expectations set for them this season.