Fantasy Football 2015 preview: Draft busts

Oct 23, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (85) catches a pass as Denver Broncos strong safety Quinton Carter (38) and cornerback Bradley Roby (29) come in to make the tackle during the first half at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Antonio Gates

Antonio Gates was the second highest-scoring tight end last year (NFL.com), but there are a number of reasons not to draft him this season.

It starts with the fact he’s suspended for four games. Taking him will mean needing to draft a backup tight end to fill in for a quarter of the season. Then what? Do you take another tight end high? Or do you risk taking one late on to fill in for those games?

At 35 years old, it could be time for his production to take a hit. Last season, he posted an impressive 821 yards for 12 touchdowns, but don’t expect similar numbers in the games he starts this campaign.

Entering the final year of his contract, it’s possible the Chargers begin to transition Ladarius Green into a bigger role in the passing game, so there’s no guarantee Gates will replicate his 2014 productivity once he’s back.

If you can’t get Rob Gronkowski or Jimmy Graham, you should be looking at the likes of Greg Olsen and Travis Kelce. If they are gone, the likes of Martellus Bennett, Jason Witten and Jordan Cameron come into play late in your draft.

Next: A wide receiver to get the Chiefs a TD?