Ringo's 2026 Team Defense Busts

Here are some defenses that I don’t like in 2026. Some could be busts, while others seem overvalued with their current price tag (consensus ranking being too high).

Before Christian McCaffrey, Andrew Luck, and Aaron Rodgers played for Stanford and Cal respectively, there was a guy named John Elway who played for Stanford. Elway had led Stanford to what seemed like one of his many late drive heroics over arch rival Cal on the road in Berkley. Stanford took the lead with only 4 seconds left. Here is how El;way’s last collegiate game for The Cardinal ended. Note- the video is a little grainy- the gold circle is where the ball is.

The second video is the Bluegrass Miracle. Kentucky seemed poised to deliver a major upset at home in Lexington over Nick Saban and the LSU Tigers. But as Lee Corso would say, not so fast, my friend.

Green Bay
There’s a good chance that Micah Parsons starts the season on the PUP list. If that happens, the Packers’ defense is vulnerable. Parsons is one of the most dominant pass rushers in the league. There’s a reason Green Bay traded a hefty sum for him. Even when he comes back it might take him a bit to get his sea legs back (aka - be in football shape, game ready). Until that happens, Green Bay’s pass rush will probably struggle.

Fantasy strategy- I’d avoid drafting Green Bay. Instead, I’d keep a close eye on if Parsons goes on the PUP list and when he returns. If the Packers defense struggles and is dropped, I’d consider picking them up later in the year when Parsons returns.

Detroit
The legal troubles of former 1st round pick Terrion Arnold has been a shot to the jugular of the Lions’ secondary. Detroit cut it’s losses and let go its top CB. Brian Branch is injured, he could miss some time early in the season. The Lions figure to struggle on defense.

Fantasy strategy- I’d avoid the Lions’ defense, however, I’d load up on Detroit’s offensive players and also look for my players to play against their defense in the playoff weeks. The fact that they play half their games in climate controlled dome should ensure some high scoring contests.

Cleveland
As good as Jared Verse is, he’s not an upgrade over Myles Garrett. However, an even bigger concern is the offensive line. The Browns added a lot to their line, but even the most talented units take time to gel. Throw in the fact, that there’s a new coach and a new offense, and the Browns figure to struggle offensively. That means more punts and turnovers putting the pressure on the defense. I expect the Browns to wear down both physically and mentally.

Fantasy strategy- In the rare chance that you were thinking about picking Cleveland, my suggestion is look elsewhere. This is one “dawg” who seems to be in the fantasy doghouse in 2026.

Ringo's 2026 Team Defense Sleepers

*Note- some of these calls aren’t sleepers just defenses that I think could have a good year. It’s difficult to find a true sleeper in today’s fantasy football landscape, but I’ll do my best to uncover some longshots in larger leagues. Now it’s time for a little Doomsday Defense!

Cincinnati
Beware of the Bengals in 2026. This isn’t your dad’s Cincinnati team that was a dream matchup for your fantasy players to go against. While they’re defense isn’t a finished project, the Bengals are vastly improved. Their defensive front is downright beast-like. Newcomers, Boye Mafe, Jonathan Allen, and Dexter Lawrence turn the team’s biggest weakness into a strength. And if they get anything out of youngsters Cashius Howell or Myles Murphy, lookout! (Note- EDGE Shemar Stewart was carted off after a gruesome injury in training camp). Cincinnati will be going with the Seahawks strategy of dominating in the trenches. Safety Bryan Cook comes over from Kansas City. He should help bolster the secondary while CB D.J. Turner is underrated. If the Bengals can stay healthy, make no mistake, this team has a legit shot at the title.

Fantasy strategy- Cincinnati is a sleeper who, if they can stay healthy, I expect to surprise a bunch of folks who haven’t done their research. Ask any NFL exec, and they’ll agree this defensive front is one to be reckoned with. I would try to avoid players with playoff matchups against the Bengals. In addition, downgrades/temper expectations for players from division rivals Cleveland (is that even possible?), Pittsburgh, and possibly Baltimore (although Lamar and Derrick Henry are really good) who have to face this stalwart line twice.

L.A. Rams
The Rams aren’t a sleeper, but they’re really good. And, they’re pretty much all in this year. L.A. traded a 1st round pick for Chiefs’ CB Trent McDuffie. However, that pales in comparison to the monumental trade for EDGE rusher Myles Garrett. It cost them draft picks and youngster Jared Verse. Rumors are swirling that former all-pro Aaron Donald could unretire. Can you imagine Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett on the same defensive line? Good lord- if that happens my money is on the other teams total points under folks! And if there’s a bet that the opposing QB ends up in the hospital, I’d sprinkle a little dust on that one as well. If Donald comes back, the Rams are one of the best defenses in the league and one of the favorites to bring home the Lombardi Trophy when the 2026 dust settles.

Fantasy strategy- The Rams are already solid, If Donald unretires and it sounds like that is a distinct possibility, the Rams will be one of the first offenses off the board in your draft. They may be worth the price. Aaron Donald and Myles Garrett on the same line would create havoc on oppsing teams QBs. I would also try to avoid any fantasy playoff matchups vs the Rams. Let someone else deal with Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald. I’ll take my chances elsewhere.


Seattle
The Seahawks lost a few pieces, but they still have plenty of their core from last year’s Super bowl team. The strength of their team is their defensive line. Leonard Williams, Demarcus Lawrence, Jarran Reed, and Byron Murphy are a formidable test for even the most talented offensive line. Nick Emmanwori is an athletic freak in the secondary and Devon Witherspoon is solid at CB. If Seattle’s defense can stay healthy, they’ll be in the mix once again for the title.

Fantasy strategy- The Seahawks are solid and their 12th man home field advantage is always a concern for opposing offenses. Seattle seems worthy of being one of the first defenses selected in fantasy drafts. I would try to avoid any matchup vs Seattle in the playoff weeks.


Philadelphia
The Eagles are solid. Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter are a force to deal with up front. Newly acquired LB Jonathan Greenard might make his former team (Minnesota) green with envy. Sorry I had to. He’s an upgrade at LB. Riq Woolen comes over from the defending champions. He joins Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean and should form a solid secondary.

Fantasy strategy- The Eagles are a solid defensive team. Their biggest weakness might be their offensive line, which no longer is the dominant force it once was. That impacts the defense where they have to be on the field more. Still, this is tough group. I’d be happy with Philly as my defense. I’d also want a better matchup for my players than to face the Eagles when it’s the fantasy playoffs. Fly Eagles Fly!


Houston
Finally, I’ll go with the Texans. Denver is in the mix here as a possibility, but their division seems tougher on paper with Kansas City, the Chargers, and an improving Raiders’ team, so I prefer Houston instead. Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter form a menacing 1-2 pass rush punch, while Derek Stingley and Kamari Lassiter are excellent in the secondary. If Houston can get some improvement out of their offense and specifically their line to sustain some long drives, this defense could excel once again.

Fantasy strategy- The Texans are another solid choice. They have a strong pass rush and excellent cover corners. Barring injuries, Houston is a good bet to do well in 2026.

Ringo's 2026 Kicker Busts

Well, let’s be honest…picking a good kicker is a dart throw more than anything. The good news is I’m awesome at picking ones that do lousy, haha! Besides, I just want to play this cool video below.

Chris Boswell
Boswell is a good kicker, but he plays in a difficult stadium. Heinz Field is notorious for being one of the toughest field to kick with the outdoor elements, notably the swirling wind in December. When all else fails, pick a kicker in a dome or at least in a warm weather city so the ball goes further. The exception to the the rule is Denver, where the ball flies easily in the thin mountain air.

Zane Gonzalez
The Dolphins a re a work in progress. I have zero confidence in Malik Willis behind a shaky line. In addition, their defense is also in a rebuild mode. I don’t expect them to be in close games. I’m fading Miami and Gonzalez in 2026.

Andre Szmyt|
Szmyt?? I can’t even say his name. How the hell am I supposed to suggest him? I’m going the be the guy who tries to pronounce TJ Houshmandzadeh, haha! Szmyt championship, haha!

Jake Moody
Jake had a stellar career for the Wolverines in College, but has struggled in his brief NFL careeer. Maybe he turns it around, but I’m fading until I see some improvement.

Jake Elliott
I actually like Elliott. I think he’s a pretty reliable kicker. Unfortunately, the Eagles go for so many fourth downs with that damn tush push, that he’s on my do not draft list. That drives me nuts when I have a kicker and he loses opportunities.

Readers, “Ringo, you miserable slug!  You think you can talk your way out of this.  We trusted you.  Your picks were horrible! You betrayed us!” 

Me, “No, I didn’t.  Honest, I ran out of gas.  I had a flat tire.  I didn’t have enough money for cab fare.  My tux didn’t come back from the cleaners. An old friend came in from out of town.  Someone stole my car.  There was an earthquake.  A terrible flood.  Locusts!!!   It wasn’t my fault. I swear to God!!!” Haha!!!

Ringo's 2026 Kicker Sleepers

Well, let’s be honest…picking a good kicker is a dart throw more than anything. Besides, I just want to play this cool video below. Shiloh Eagles vs Richmond Giants in Facing The Giants. And it comes down to a kicker named David vs. the Giants (aka Goliath)? Hmnn…the conspiracy theorist in me would say that’s not a coincidence.

Brandon Aubrey
Aubrey has a cannon for a leg. If any kicker can almost win a week, it’s him. I still don’t advise picking kickers early in typical scoring systems, but he’s the most consistent.

Cam Little
Little came up big when he set the NFL record for the longest FG in NFL history (a 68 yarder! (see video below- click Watch on YouTube). I wouldn’t reach for him, but if he slips he’s one to consider if you get rewarded for longer FGs.

Cameron Dicker
Dicker is on a solid offense and the Chargers should get plenty of opportunities. Don’t Dicker over your kicker, haha!

Will Reichard
Reichard plays in a dome and is one of the most consistent kickers in the NFL. Scott Fish’s son Iain made an astute observation. The Vikings road game in Mexico City could be the setting for the NFL longest FG to be broken. At 7350 feet above sea level, Mexico City is one of the highest altitude cities on Earth. The ball will soar in the warm, thin air. In his previous job, he worked for Star Fleet on the U.S.S. Enterprise as Number One to Captain Jean-Luc Picard, haha!

Will Lutz
There are worse places to kick than the thin air of Mile High Stadium. If you get extra points for longer field goals, Lutz is worth a shot. Or as we say in our analyst circles, don’t be a putz, draft Lutz. Actually no one says that. I just like telling bad puns to you guys. It’s one of the few perks I have in this hobby, haha!

Jake Bates
Bates plays for one of the most potent offenses in the league. He also plays in a dome for half his games. He should have a solid year for the Lions.

Evan McPherson
The Bengals invested heavily in their defensive line. That should keep games close and make field goal attempts more prevalent. McPherson is really good. As long as Joe Burrow stays healthy, McPherson should have plenty of opportunities.

Justin Tucker (LONGSHOT LARGE LEAGUES 12+ WITH DEEP ROSTERS)
Arguably the greatest kicker in NFL history, Tucker remains a free agent after allegations surfaced regarding inappropriate behavior with female massage therapists. Players have done worse, and have gotten second chances. Worth a shot in large leagues with very deep rosters. Yippie Ki-Aye- mother Tucker!

Daniel Carlson (LONGSHOT LARGE LEAGUES 12+ WITH DEEP ROSTERS)
Carlson is also a free agent. The longtime Raider waits for his chance. Prior to being released, Carlson was one of the more reliable kickers in the league.

Ringo's 2026 TE Busts

*Note- some of these calls aren’t sleepers just players I think could have a good year. It’s difficult to find a true sleeper in today’s fantasy football landscape, but I’ll do my best to uncover some longshots in larger leagues or leagues with deeper rosters.

Tyler Warren
Warren is an impressive youngster. He had a great rookie campaign, however, he’s fully priced now. QB Daniel Jones is coming off an Achilles injury. Jones might miss the first few weeks of the season. The entire Colts’ offense struggled without him. Warren’s current consensus ranking at TE 4 seems very risky.

As Tyler would say, the first rule of Sleepers and Busts fight club is you do not talk about fight club. The second rule of Sleepers and Busts fight club is you do not talk about fight club!!! And the final rule of Sleepers and Busts fight club is, if this is your first time at Sleepers and Busts fight club, you have to fight….for a championship!

Tucker Kraft
Kraft is coming off reconstructive knee surgery. Anyone who follows me knows my general philosophy is to fade players coming off major knee surgery. Most fantasy analysts haven’t learned that it takes two years until people feel close to 100% from this injury. Kraft’s current consensus ranking at TE 5 is reckless given the challenges he faces in 2026.

Dalton Kincaid
Kincaid is another former member of Ringo’s TE sleeper lists. Unfortunately, he can’t stay heathy. Dalton hasn’t materialized into the weapon I or the Bills thought he would when he landed in Buffalo. Kincaid’s current consensus ranking at TE 9 seems too high given his injury history and lackluster fantasy performance.

George Kittle
This call could come back to bite me. When healthy, Kittle is one of the most talented players in the league. However, he suffered a devastating Achilles injury last season. What I’m hearing is that this injury will prevent him from being the run after catch star he was in the past. He’ll still be a red zone threat, but is no longer elite. Keep an eye out for reports from medical experts regarding Kittle as the summer progresses, but temper expectations for an elite season.

Ringo's 2026 TE Sleepers

*Note- some of these calls aren’t sleepers just players I think could have a good year. It’s difficult to find a true sleeper in today’s fantasy football landscape, but I’ll do my best to uncover some longshots in larger leagues or leagues with deeper rosters.

This is your opportunity. To rise from these ashes and grab glory. We are….Marshall. We are…Marshall. Funerals end today.

Trey McBride
Trey is the best in the business at TE right now. McBride is a solid pick if you’re strategy is to go early at TE.

Brock Bowers
Brock had an injury plagued year which hurt his fantasy stats. He’s still one of the most talented TEs in the game. The upgrades at QB should help with veteran Kirk Cousins and heralded rookie, Fernando Mendoza, coming aboard. The Raiders also signed center, Tyler Linderbaum, to help fix a leaky offensive line. Bowers should have a better year in 2026. Bow to your sensai. Bow to your sensai!!!! Haha!!!

Colston Loveland
It took him a bit to get going, but Colston Loveland started coming on as 2025 winded down. The Bears said to be patient with him. The departure of WR D.J. Moore should give Loveland more opportunities in Ben Johnson’s offense. And while Loveland isn’t a sleeper, I expect him to take another step forward and establish himself as one of the best young TEs in the game.


Sam LaPorta
LaPorta slipped a little in performance, but he’s still really good. The only concern is the Lions’ offensive line. They’ve had some departures over the past few seasons and they’re no longer the dominant force they once were. If Detroit can protect Jared Goff, LaPorta should have a solid season.


Isaiah Likely
The Giants are concerned about Malik Nabers being ready for the start of 2026. In addition, I’ve heard that Nabers might not be 100% until 2027. Likely could come in and be a big slot WR for New York, who also lost WR WanDale Robinson in free agency. When Likely had opportunities as a go-to-guy in Baltimore, he produced. And with a consensus ranking at TE 13, Likely could easily outkick his draft cost, especially with a promising QB like Jaxson Dart, and a Giants' schedule that seems to be ripe for some fantasy points.


Mark Andrews
I’ve tried, but I can’t figure this one out. Mark Andrews, a longtime favorite target of Lamar Jackson, has a current consensus ranking of only TE 15. Isaiah Likely is gone and Andrews is “thee” guy. He should have a resurgent year in 2026. Andrews’ current consensus ranking at TE 15 seems like a gift. Just say thank you for the sale price and walk away.


Kenyon Sadiq (SEMI-LONGSHOT PICK)
Sadiq is a sort of gamble on potential and raw talent. for fantasy purposes I guess he’s sort of a longshot pick, but he was also taken in the 1st round, so unless the guys in your league are living in a cave, most have probably heard of Sadiq. He’s one of the most talented young TE prospects to come out in recent years. However, the New York Jets seems to be a place where talented young prospects go to die (in a fantasy sense). It sounds like they’ll use both Sadiq and Mason Taylor in two TE sets. Sadiq might be more of a big slot WR. If Geno Smith can right the ship at QB, Sadiq could have some highlight reel plays. That said, I wouldn’t want to count on Sadiq as my starter, but more as a backup with potential. Sadiq’s Current Fantasy Pros Consensus Ranking is TE 22. Worth a shot.


Hunter Henry
Hunter Henry’s resurgent year wasn’t an accident. He had his best seasons with Josh McDaniel as his offensive coordinator. I expect that trend to continue, especially with a young talented QB like Drake Maye throwing him the rock. Henry’s current consensus ranking at TE 19 seems cheap.


T.J. Hockenson (LONGSHOT PICK)
Tj Hockenson is another former member of the upper echelon of TEs from fantasy pasts. Last year he was coming off reconstructive knee surgery which is why he struggled. However, T.J. should be 100% by now and I expect him to have a bounce back year as long as Kyler Murray wins the starting gig. Remember, the last TE guy Murray threw to in Arizona, Trey McBride, had some pretty good fantasy seasons. While Hockenson isn’t McBride, he’s still very good and with a current consensus ranking of only TE 23, he’s dirt cheap.


David Njoku (LONGSHOT PICK)
One of my favorite players at TE finally escapes the fantasy hell that is Cleveland. The Chargers went out and signed Njoku to a one year contract. Njoku is explosive and can turn catches into long TDs. The pairing with Justin Herbert and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel could catapult Njoku into a Top 10 TE. McDaniel is known for having his QBs quickly get the ball out to his playmakers. Remember Jonnu Smith’s season in Miami a few seasons ago? The same could happen here with Njoku. My main concern is playing time with Oronde Gadsden penciled in as the starter. Still, with a current consensus ranking at TE 27, there are worse long shots you can take than on a very talented TE on a potent offense.

Ringo's 2026 WR Busts

Here are some players that I don’t like in 2026. Some could be busts, while others seem overvalued with their current price tag (consensus ranking being too high).

Now let’s razzle dazzle those dummy d’s with a little hook and lateral. Just catch the damn ball. Hook and lateral on one. Ready? Break!

The second video is how the hook and lateral play is supposed to work. The Epic in Miami was an instant playoff classic featuring the Dolphins and Chargers in Miami’s Orange Bowl. With 6 seconds left until halftime and trailing 24-10 and out of field goal range, Miami’s Hall of Fame coach Don Shula draws up the play. Here’s legendary announcer, Don Criqui, with the call. click Watch on YouTube below.

Malik Nabers
Nabers is coming off of two surgeries to repair his torn ACL. There is zero chance he’ll be 100% at any part of the 2026 season. The Giants are worried he won’t be ready for week 1. They didn’t sign Darnell Mooney because they like his sense of humor. Many of my peers in the fantasy industry are having a difficult time grasping just how brutal an injury this is because they never had to rehab from it. There is no way Nabers should be anywhere close to a top 20 WR in 2026. Bust

Nico Collins
Nico Collins has shown the ability to have big games. There’s definitely some chemistry between him and C.J. Stroud. However, the Texans’ offense took a step back last year. Their offensive line struggled. It doesn’t appear they did enough to address it. Houston also has Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, and hopefully, Tank Dell, returning from a gruesome knee injury. That’s a lot of mouths to feed. With a consensus ranking at WR 8, Collins seems a little rich considering some of the concerns stated above.

Chris Olave
I was wrong about Olave last year. He did pretty well. However, I’m still skeptical. While Olave is a good WR, he’s not a game breaker. While Rasheed Shaheed was traded last season, the Saints drafted Jordyn Tyson in the first round. Tyson is viewed by many scouts as a talented WR capable of being a #1 WR if he can stay healthy. That’s a big if considering Tyson’s injury history. However, if he can then Olave’s numbers figure to take a hit. Olave’s current consensus ranking at WR 12 seems risky.

Side note- there’s a rumor that the Saints could trade Olave. He’s in the last year of his contract and the Saints don’t sound too eager to pay him. Teams that could be interested include Kansas City, Indianapolis, Washington, L.A. Rams, etc. Keep an eye on this situation as the summer and season progresses.

Tetairoa McMillan
McMillan had a good rookie season. The main concern with him is the Panthers’ offense. Can Bryce Young take another step forward? While McMillan finished last year as the 14th ranked WR (in half point PPR), he only had two games over 100 yards and 7 TDs. Two!

McMillan’s current consensus ranking at WR 14 seems a little high, if he can’t get more yards and TDs, which he might not.

Jaylen Waddle
Jaylen Waddle is really talented, so this call could come back to bite me. In fact, at Alabama he was on his way to possibly winning the Heisman Trophy until he got hurt. His teammate DeVonta Smith ended up winning it. Injuries are a real concern and they’ve hampered Waddle in the past. How will his body hold up in a colder climate? Can Bo Nix take a step forward? How much volume will he get with Courtland Sutton as the featured WR?

With a consensus ranking at WR 23, Waddle seems a little high in the Mile High City. I prefer other players in that range, but if Jaylen can stay healthy, he has the talent to make plenty of big plays for the Broncos.


Ricky Pearsall
Pearsall is talented, but he’s struggled to stay healthy. I think the 49’ers are running out of patience. They brought in veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk because their WR room was so depleted. Until I see him stay healthy, I’m fading Pearsall. And I haven’t seen it yet. Pearsall’s current consensus ranking is only WR 43, so if you like him, he won’t cost you much. However, Michael Pittman seems like a better choice in that draft range.

Ringo's 2026 WR Sleepers

*Note- some of these calls aren’t sleepers just players I think could have a good year. It’s difficult to find a true sleeper in today’s fantasy football landscape, but I’ll do my best to uncover some longshots in larger leagues or leagues with deeper rosters.

Ja’Marr Chase
There’s not much to say. If Ja’Marr and Joe Burrow stay healthy, Chase is in store for another big year.

Please pass to all-pro Ja’M-arr.
Excuse me, please pass to all-pro Ja’M-arr.
Please pass to all-pro Ja’M-arr.
Would you please pass to jelly? Haha!

You’ll call him fantastic. You’ll call him remarkable. But please don’t dare call him jelly, haha!

Cee Dee Lamb
Lamb is one of the most talented WRs in the league. He and George Pickens make a tough combo. If anything happens to Pickens, Lamb will get even more volume. As long as Dak can stay healthy, Cee Dee should score plenty of TDs.

Justin Jefferson
Jefferson had a little bit of a disappointing year in 2025. The Vikings’ QB play was not the best. They brought in Kyler Murray to compete for the starting gig. I think he’ll win the job over J.J. McCarthy. If he does, Jefferson should have a solid year, as long as Murray can stay healthy.

Emeka Egbuka
Mike Evans’ departure in free agency opens up a spot for Egbuka to take over as at least the 1A option for Baker Mayfield, and possibly as Baker’s new go-to guy. The Bucs’ offense is forced to pass to keep up in games. Mayfield was injured last year, but he’s healthy now. Egbuka seems poised for a big year.

And to all of the other drafters out there, if you smell a delicious crispy aroma after Mark Ringo takes Emeka in your draft, that’s not your nose playing tricks on you. It’s a little bit of “eMake & Bake”. Doesn’t that catch phrase just blow your mind? That just happened! It rhymes. They’re both verbs…sort of. Haha!

DeVonta Smith
On the flip side, when AJ Brown moves on that means DeVonta Smith becomes the de-facto #1 WR in the City of Brotherly Love. DeVonta is plenty capable of that role. When Jaylen Waddle went down with a season ending injury in Alabama Smith took over and won the Heisman. Even though the Eagles don’t pass it a ton, I expect Smith to have a career year, if he and Jalen Hurts can stay healthy.

Here’s a look at what DeVonta Smith did when he was the featured WR at Alabama.

Marvin Harrison Jr.
A lot of fantasy analysts are writing Marvin off as a bust. I think that's a mistake. Arizona has a new head coach this season, Mike LaFleur. LaFleur comes over from Los Angeles under the tutelage of offensive wiz, Sean McVay. McVay's offense features a pass-oriented attack, the same one where a fantasy star WR named Puka plays. In addition, the Cardinals added more juice to the offense with RB Jeremiyah Love and bolstered their line with Guard Chase Bisontis. With a consensus ranking at WR 31, Harrison seems cheap given his talent and the potential of an improved Cardinals' offense in 2026.

Luther Burden
D.J. Moore’s departure opens up a spot for Burden for a bigger role int he offense. the Bears in general should be more comfortable with Ben Johnson’s offense in year two. I expect a huge jump and Burden should be one of the benefactors. Even with a current consensus ranking at WR 23, Burden seems fairly priced and could make some big plays in 2026.

I remember another Luther in the scene below. Unfortunately, the best I could find is just an audio version. The video was blurred out-ugh! Go to 1:48 mark in the video where Luther tries to get a free pizza, haha!

Courtland Sutton
I’m not the biggest Bo Nix fan, but even still I can’t figure out why Courtland Sutton is so cheap. He finished as WR 11 last season. Sutton is currently ranked at WR 34 in the consensus rankings. That’s a steal in my book. Even with Jaylen Waddle aboard, Sutton is the WR 1 in Denver. Waddle should open things up, but when they get near the red zone, Sutton’s big frame should draw plenty of targets.

Mike Evans
Mike Evans is no longer in his prime, but he still has some juice left in the tank. And he might be in an even better situation than he was in Tampa. George Kittle is coming off an Achilles injury. Evans becomes the go-to guy in San Francisco, at least at WR. Christian McCaffrey and him should create plenty of scoring opportunities. With a current consensus ranking at WR 26, Evans seems cheap given the potential of the 49’ers’ offense.

Terry McLaurin
Throw out 2025. Without Jayden Daniels, the Commanders’ offense struggled. Daniels is back now and as long as he can stay healthy, McLaurin should be in for a solid year. The Commander still have a good offensive line, so Daniels should be well protected. With a consensus ranking at WR 22, McLaurin is probably fairly priced, but if Washington performs like I think they can, he should do fine.

Jordyn Tyson
Carnell Tate might have gone first, but most scouts/NFL execs believe that Jordyn Tyson was the most talented WR with the highest ceiling in the draft. One execs’ comp for Tyson was Justin Jefferson light. According to scouting reports Tyson is an improved route runner who is able to play any of the WR positions. The reason he slipped in the draft was an extensive injury history in college. However, his WR coach at Arizona State, and former Steelers all-pro WR Hines Ward put those fears to rest by vouching for Tyson. Tyson refused to come off the field vs Texas Tech after he hurt his hamstring, He said (and I’m paraphrasing here) I’m not leaving my brothers.) Tyson went on to almost single handedly helping the Sun Devils win with a crucial fourth and two which led to the game winning TD. With a consensus ranking at WR 36, Tyson is very cheap given his immense talent and heart.

Ringo’s comp- Tyson reminds me a little of a lighter version of Dez Bryant. Tyson isn’t a burner, but he fights for yardage and is dangerous with YAC (yards after the catch) much like Dez was for Dallas.

Jalen Nailor (LONGSHOT PICK LARGE 12+ TEAMS WITH DEEP ROSTERS)
Jalen Nailor played in the shadows of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but make no mistake, Nailor is electric in the open field. He’s also a good route runner and has a physicality to his game when it comes to creating YAC (yards after the catch). Nailor is reunited with former Vikings’ teammate, Kirk Cousins, in Sin City. Waiting in the wings to take over at QB is the number one overall pick Fernando Mendoza. All Mendoza did was lead the unheralded Indiana Hoosiers to a National Championship.

With a consensus ranking at WR 74, Nailor is pretty much free and I think based on his talent alone, he outperforms his draft cost in street shoes.

Darnell Mooney / Darius Slayton (LONGSHOT PICK LARGE 12+ TEAMS WITH DEEP ROSTERS)
Malik Nabers is coming off major reconstructive knee surgery. He won’t be 100% all year. And the Giants fear he probably won’t be ready for week one. Someone has to pick up the slack. Two of the benefactors could be Darius Slayton and Darnell Mooney. Both are deep threats, but Slayton is bigger. Note- Mooney is reunited with Matt Nagy who was his head coach in Chicago. Jaxson Dart is better than the QB he had in Chicago, Mitch Trubisky. When Mooney played with Kirk Cousins in Atlanta, he put up solid numbers for a low ranked fantasy sleeper. The only concern is if John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator, Matt Nagy want to focus the offense on running the ball. However, with Mooney and Slayton’s current consensus rankings at WR 78 and WR 104 respectively, it’s worth a roll of the dice in larger and deep roster leagues.

Tank Dell (LONGSHOT PICK LARGE 12TEAMS+ LEAGUES WITH DEEP ROSTERS)
If you’re willing to be patient and want to roll the dice on a long shot with star potential, Tank Dell is the guy. Dell is rehabbing from a gruesome knee injury. It’s a career threatening injury, the same one which Tyreek hill is currently trying to comeback from. The texans have already admitted they are taking things slow and cautious with Dell. they’re probably going to limit his snap count in the early part of the season if he plays. The good news is there are encouraging reports coming out of Houston regarding Dell’s progress. How close to the pre-injury Tank Dell will the post-injury Tank Dell be? With a current consensus ranking at WR 80, I’ll roll the dice on the electric WR with the hope that he’s still got “it”.

Ringo's 2026 RB Busts

Here are some players that I don’t like in 2025. Some could be busts, while others seem overvalued with their current price tag (consensus ranking being too high).

It’s time for everyone’s favorite fantasy football game show where drafters try for big time players and try to avoid the whammy. It’s time to Press Your Luck! Below are the intro and extended theme songs.

Bijan Robinson
This isn’t about Bijan as much as it’s about his cost and the rest of the Falcons. Michael Penix is coming off an injury and Atlanta brought in Tua to compete for the job. Tua has had his own lengthy injury history. In addition, the Falcons’ offensive line isn’t the best or deepest group out there. Any injuries at QB or the line could derail this offense. The loss of backup
QB Kirk Cousins will hit harder than some realize, imo. Bijan is still awesome, but with a consensus ranking of RB 1, I’d rather pick someone else early given my concerns with the Falcons’ offense in 2026.

Jonathan Taylor
JT is pretty much the same song but different dance that I explained with Bijan. Taylor is still awesome, but his success hinges on Daniel Jones’s health. Without Jones, the Colts offense takes a hit. Defenses will be able to key on Taylor and force backup QB, Riley Leonard, to beat them,. If Leonard can’t, that hurts the TD count for Taylor. Taylor’s current consensus ranking at RB 7 is a little higher than I’d prefer. I don’t think he’s a bust, but I’d rather pick someone else in a better situation at that price.

Devon Achane
The Dolphins’ offense is a major work in progress. They’re in the middle of a total rebuild. Their new starting QB is Malik Willis. Maybe Willis will work out, but I’m not optimistic. I thought Miami overpaid for him. In addition, Willis will be working behind a shaky offensive line. The departures of electric playmakers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle loom large. There’s a lot of moving parts in Miami and I think that could spell trouble for Achane. With a current consensus ranking at RB 7, I want no part of Achane or the Dolphins’ offense in 2026.

Travis Etienne Jr.
Well, I was one year early on Etienne leaving Jacksonville. I thought they were going to trade him last year. Instead, they kept him, and Etienne rewarded them with a great year. Now he joins New Orleans. The Saints are rebuilding. They’re improving on offense. I guess it ultimately comes down to if you believe in Tyler Shough taking a step forward. He had a hard time staying healthy in college. If he gets hurt, the Saints’ offense probably struggles under backups, Spencer Rattler or Zach Wilson. Also note, Alvin Kamara took a pay cut to stay in New Orleans. Kamara probably cuts into Etienne’s third down usage.

Bottom line- It’s just not the best situation for me to want to invest in. Etienne’s current consensus ranking is RB 18. That’s too rich for my blood. Who dat want to draft Travis Etienne in 2026 at his current draft price? Not Mark Ringo.

Jaylen Warren
Warren is a solid player. With Aaron Rodgers in his farewell tour, he’ll probably be the recipient of a lot of checkdowns. That always helps. However, there’s not much upside here. Quick, how many games did Warren go over 100 yards rushing last season? Two! That’s it. And now Rico Dowdle is aboard. Dowdle is bigger and a threat to vulture TDs when the Steelers are in the red zone. In addition, the Bengals went out and invested a lot of money in their defensive line. That’s never good when a team who have to play twice improves dramatically on defense.

Bottom line- Warren’s not terribly expensive at RB 27, but I just don’t think there’s much upside here, especially with a Steelers’ offensive line that has struggled in the past.

Zach Charbonnet
Charbonnet isn’t a bust in a traditional sense of having a high ADP, but rather in this sense. He shouldn’t be drafted at all, imo Charbonnet is coming off major reconstructive knee surgery. His surgery wasn’t until February 2026. That’s not enough time. I don’t care what reports you’re hearing. Forget about it. He’s a non-factor this year.

Ringo's 2026 RB Sleepers

*Note- some of these calls aren’t sleepers, just players I think could have a good year. It’s difficult to find a true sleeper in today’s fantasy football landscape, but I’ll do my best to uncover some longshots in larger leagues or leagues with deeper rosters.

Without further adieu, it’s time to start running!!!!!!

Jahmyr Gibbs
Gibbs is one of the most electric players in the league. The only concern is the Lions’ offensive line not being the dominant force they’ve been in the past. despite that, Gibbs is electric in the open field, he can turn any touch into paydirt. David Montgomery is gone, but the Lions brought in former Chief Isiah Pacheco to help lessen the workload on Gibbs. Don’t overthink it. Gibbs should have another great year.

Christian McCaffrey
McCaffrey’s analysis is real simple, if he stays healthy, he’ll have a monster year. And if he doesn’t, you’re in deep trouble. The good news is he’s coming into the season healthy after having a great year in 2025. Can he stay healthy, though? That’s the million dollar question. If he can, you’ve got a great shot at winning the title. It’s your call.

Saquon Barkley
The imminent departure of A.J. Brown looms large in Philadelphia. Brown is so physical, he helps out Barkley in the run game, too. His loss will be felt. That said, I have a soft spot for Barkley. Saquon is one of the most talented RBs in the league. I’ve seen no signs of him losing a step. He’s still more than capable of electrifying runs and being a dominant RB. Saquon’s current consensus ranking at RB 8 seems cheap given how talented he is.  

Omarion Hampton
Omarion Hampton isn't the cheapest option, but I think he's the best value at RB. Last year, everything that could go wrong in Los Angeles did. Injuries crushed the Chargers. Hampton had is own injury issues. Fortunately, he and his teammates (offensive tackles RaShawn Slater and Joe Alt) are healthy now. I expect Hampton to be one of the few bell-cow RBs in the league and if that transpires it could produce an incredibly high fantasy ceiling. The Chargers should put up plenty of points this season.

With a current half-point consensus ranking at RB 10, Hampton seems cheap given the fantasy potential of an improved Chargers' offense in 2026.


Ringo’s comp-  Hampton reminds me of former Steelers RB Barry Foster (from the early 90’s).

Derrick Henry
Despite the Ravens never getting on track, Henry had another solid season. Just think if Lamar Jackson can stay healthy? Baltimore also addressed the trenches. While they lost all-pro center Tyler Lindstrom. They brought back former Raven, John Simpson, and drafted Vega Ioane. Both should help open holes for Henry. I’ve seen no signs of Henry losing a step. He seems like he’s in store for another great year. Long live the King

Bhayshul Tuten
Travis Etienne’s departure on free agency opens up the lead RB role in Jacksonville, and I think that could go to Tuten. Tuten is electric on the field. When it comes to Bhayshul "Rootin'" Tuten, his talent is obvious. He's the fastest RB north, south, east, and west of the Pecos, according to Yosemite Sam Ringo.

Ringo's comp- Tuten reminds me of a smaller version of former Bronco and Redskin, Clinton Portis.

Jonathan Brooks / Chuba Hubbard
I’m not the biggest Panthers fan out there, but there are fantasy points there to be had if we can pick the right RB. Brooks has more pedigree coming out of college. Knee injuries derailed his promising career so far, but he appears healthy now. If he can stay healthy, he has the ability to be a bell cow RB. Brooks’ current consensus ranking  on FantasyPros sits at RB 42.  Major sleeper and Potential League Winner!!

On the flip side, Chuba Hubbard might be the Rodney Dangerfield of RBs. He gets no respect, no respect at all. If Brooks gets hurt, Hubbard could once again be a sneaky pick who gets a lot of volume. Both seem relatively cheap with their consensus rankings: Hubbard is at RB 28 so not quite the value that Brooks is.

Another strategy in larger/deeper leagues is grabbing both. There’s value here with those cheap price tags, especially if Carolina designates one as the feature RB. Worth a shot.

Jadarian Price / Emanuel Wilson
Emanuel Wilson doesn’t get much hype, but when he gets his opportunity he runs hard and plays well. Seattle lost star RB Kenneth Walker III in free agency to Kansas City. Zach Charbonnet is recovering from a torn ACL in the playoffs last year. Even if he comes back, he won’t be 100% all year.  The Seahawks drafted rookie Jadarian Price who looks impressive. However, they still want to limit touches for each RB. Wilson wasn’t signed for his good looks. I expect a RBBC between both, Price and Wilson, for at least the first month of two.  With a current consensus ranking for Price at RB 28 while Wilson is at RB 57.  The Price seems Right for sleepers in Seattle.  Sorry, I had to.  Haha!

Jordan Mason
The Vikings’ offense never got fully on track last year. J.J. McCarthy struggled. The Vikes have a new regime in their front office and they went out and signed veteran QB Kyler Murray. If Murray wins the starting gig, he could propel the entire offense to new heights, including Mason. Aaron Jones is still there, but as I figured last year, he missed some time with injuries. Any time Jones misses opens up Mason for a full time bell cow role.

With a current consensus ranking at RB 40, Mason’s current cost seems very cheap, especially given the potential on a Vikings’ offense with Justin Jefferson, T.J. Hockenson, Jordan Addison, and Jauan Jennings.


Isiah Pacheco
Isiah Pacheco was one of my better calls a few years ago. A late round pick by the Chiefs who virtually no one mentioned as a sleeper in July of his rookie season, he eventually won the starting gig. Unfortunately, his violent running style has led to injuries. Pacheco seems to be healthy now. He’ll take over David Montgomery’s role on a Lions’ offense that can put up some serious points. Pacheco’s current consensus ranking at RB 49 seems cheap given that Montgomery consistently finished as a top twenty RB in Detroit. If Pacheco can stay healthy he’s a bargain, but that’s the million dollar question. Worth a shot.