As fantasy football managers prepare for the 2025 NFL season, many enter their draft rooms with specific players in mind to target. However, it is equally important to consider players who are best avoided, particularly at their usual draft costs. Identifying potential first-round disappointments and early busts is essential for achieving success in fantasy leagues. With running backs historically facing the most attrition, it is prudent to highlight three players at this pivotal position who present significant risks that may not warrant their inflated selection prices.

Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers is often viewed as a dual-threat stud, with an enticing upside that could make him the best player in fantasy football if he remains healthy for an entire season. However, the lingering concern about his durability is a considerable downside, as the 'if healthy' caveat weighs heavily on his value. Over the past five seasons, he has been limited to seven games or fewer in three of those seasons, including just four appearances in 2024 and three in 2020. Turning 30 this upcoming season, typically a concerning age for running backs, adds another layer of uncertainty given his less-than-stellar performance last year. His yards per touch fell to 5.4, the second lowest of his career, and he failed to score a touchdown for the first time. Fantasy managers may gamble on his potential, but selecting him in the first round could overlook substantial risks.

Javonte Williams of the Los Angeles Rams presents a more nuanced case. Last season, he scored more standard fantasy points than all but five running backs, seemingly justifying his current draft price. Upon closer examination, however, his production can be attributed to a high volume of opportunities, which raises questions about future yield. With his yards per touch declining from 4.7 to a career-low 4.2, Williams did not showcase the explosive playmaking ability that may concern the Rams' coaching staff. While the team extended his contract and has not invested heavily in running back alternatives, they may seek more consistent productivity from the ground game, putting his draft value in jeopardy, particularly for managers investing a second- or third-round pick.

Breece Hall of the New York Jets rounds out this list as he seeks to find his footing as a fantasy football asset. Although a 1,000-yard rushing season is often considered a hallmark of a star running back, Hall has yet to achieve this benchmark. He has also not recorded a double-digit touchdown season, which may raise concerns for those prioritizing scoring opportunities. While Hall's value could be enhanced by his contributions in the passing game, there are questions regarding his effectiveness with Justin Fields at quarterback, a player with a career completion percentage of 61.1%. Fields' style of play, which includes running, may further reduce rushing opportunities for Hall, especially as Jets coach Aaron Glenn favors a committee approach involving multiple running backs. These complexities could significantly limit Hall's expected volume as a third-round pick.

In summary, fantasy football managers should approach the upcoming 2025 season with caution, particularly regarding high-profile running backs such as McCaffrey, Williams, and Hall. While all possess undeniable talent and the potential for significant contributions, each player carries unique risks that may outweigh their draft costs. Identifying these players to avoid may prove as crucial as selecting league-winners for fantasy success.