Fantasy Football is a fickle beast, and more often than not players who you think you can rely on for years will let you down. Here are some of the most dangerous picks to make in 2015.
DeMarco Murray [Philadelphia Eagles]: Why avoid the 2014 NFL rushing champion? It's a little more complicated than the curse of 370. DeMarco has hit the danger zone he went over 370 carries last season which typically means a dramatic drop off in production. No player in NFL history has been the exception after they go over 370 carries. DeMarco is looking to do this without the stellar offensive line that paved the way for him to become the rushing champion in the first place. Instead he has the Eagles patchwork line centered around Jason Peters. The Eagles did pick up Murray's college teammate in Sam Bradford, but I seriously doubt the both of them will stay healthy all season. Lastly Murray is in a time share backfield with Darren Sproles and Ryan Mathews which means his carries will be cut in half if not possibly by more.
Odell Beckham Jr [New York Giants]: ODB had a crazy rookie season, making all kinds of crazy catches. The reason he is on this list is simply because he is missing training camp. He has a right hamstring issue which is alarming for every fantasy owner interested in the wide receiver. These injuries tend to go on all season long and flare up at the worst time. Plus he will never match the numbers he put up a season ago especially with Victor Cruz heading back into the fold.
Victor Cruz [New York Giants]: Cruz is coming back from an injury himself, a torn patellar tendon. He most likely will not be on the PUP list to start the season but it is likely his is limited throughout the beginning of the season. If this were to happen it would start at training camp. It has been reported that he is running routes and can pass his conditioning test but do not be surprised if a) the Giants hold him back until mid-season and b) he is slower and a little more indecisive with his route running than before.
Peyton Manning [Denver Broncos]: Peyton Manning is getting old, this is a well-known fact. But this is not the only reason to stay away from him this season. The Broncos have a new coaching staff and they are looking to run the ball, a lot. The combination of Montee Ball and C.J. Anderson are the key to keeping Peyton Sharp and not empting his tank before the playoffs.
Todd Gurley [St Louis Rams]: Gurley is recovering from a torn ACL the bane of any fantasy player's existence. His goal is to be ready by training camp which is optimistic to say the least. Expect Tre Mason to get first team reps as the Rams will ease Gurley into the rotation.