Top Potential 2007 Fantasy Football Busts

Winning Your League Depends on Not Losing it in the First 3 Rounds

Larry Johnson

And player with a legitimate chance to hold out for a significant period is a serious fantasy football risk. Johnson is a top 3 pick under normal circumstances and is still averaging that position in early ESPN drafts this season. Combining his hold out with the other factors: Trent Green gone to Miami so Brodie Croyle may be the quarterback - hello, 8 and 9-man fronts and L.J. may not be in game shape if he finally gets the contract worked out. Johnson is also coming off a season with 400+ carries. While that's impressive and very "workhorse" of him, the statistics show it's difficult for a running back to repeat his success after a work load like that. Steven Jackson, Frank Gore and even Peyton Manning come with far less to worry about in the first half of the 1st round of the draft.

Shaun Alexander

The former MVP and rushing champ returns in 2007 from an injury-filled 2006 campaign, where he gained under 900 yards and just 7 touchdowns. The offensive line is aging and so is Alexander. While he is likely to get back to double-digit touchdowns, more 1500+ yard seasons are unlikely. Alexander will be spelled more and more in 2007 to keep fresh for the NFL playoffs, if Seattle makes it, and keep the most tread on his tires. He will turn 30 before the season begins and that signals a downturn for running backs in the NFL, a young man's position.

Reggie Bush