Fantasy managers are advised to cut underperformers like Justin Herbert and Kenny Gainwell as the season approaches its midpoint. New data suggests these players are unlikely to recover, making them prime candidates for waiver wire moves.
As the 2026 NFL season creeps toward its halfway point, fantasy football managers are being urged to make tough roster decisions. According to recent analysis from RotoBaller, the period is ideal for aggressive moves based on actual performance data rather than preseason expectations. The article highlights that it is time to accept that certain players are "who we thought they were," even if that means letting go of high-profile names who have failed to deliver.
Specifically, the report identifies Justin Herbert, Kenny Gainwell, and Coutland Sutton as underperformers who are fair game for the waiver wire. The consensus among fantasy analysts is that holding onto these players out of loyalty or draft-day sentiment is no longer a viable strategy. With the season's trajectory becoming clearer, managers are advised to prioritize current production and future outlook over past potential.
ESPN’s fantasy football coverage echoes this sentiment, noting that the key question for managers is whether it is acceptable to drop a player they once coveted. The answer, according to the latest Week 6 guidance, is yes. The data indicates that these players are on their "last legs" in terms of fantasy value, and retaining them may hinder a team's ability to compete in the second half of the season.
Managers looking to make these cuts are encouraged to pair the drops with strategic waiver wire pickups. While the focus is on shedding underperformers, the goal is to replace them with players who offer a better risk-reward profile. As the season progresses, the margin for error shrinks, making data-driven roster management essential for long-term success.