Who Should I Start? Adam Thielen or Kenneth Gainwell

Monday, January 6, 3:37 PM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen said that he will go through his normal process and evaluate whether he wants to continue his playing career this offseason. Thielen said he's leaning in a certain direction, "but I'm not going to tell you what that is." If the Panthers choose to do so, they can cut the 34-year-old with only a $5 million dead salary cap hit to get out of the final year of his deal. He missed time in 2024 due to a hamstring injury that landed him on Injured Reserve, but Thielen was productive when healthy as quarterback Bryce Young's favorite target, catching 48 passes on 62 targets for 615 yards and five touchdowns in 10 starts. Staying in Carolina is the likely outcome if Thielen chooses to play another season. His chemistry with Young would give him a solid fantasy floor as a flex, depending on what the rest of the WR room looks like in 2025.

Monday, January 6, 9:38 AM

Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell saw increased usage in Sunday's 20-13 win over the New York Giants but struggled to make an impact. Gainwell logged 11 carries for just 14 yards and added two receptions for nine yards. Rookie Will Shipley outperformed Gainwell, posting 32 rushing yards and 35 receiving yards. With Saquon Barkley set to return for the playoffs, Gainwell will return to his usual backup role. While his Week 18 output was disappointing, Gainwell has shown the ability to contribute effectively when needed. The Eagles will rely on their depth as they prepare to host the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round.