Who Should I Start? Adam Thielen or Rashod Bateman

Saturday, August 17, 6:54 PM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen won't suit up for Saturday's preseason contest against the New York Jets. The Panthers plan to sit a majority of their starters during their second preseason contest. The 10-year wideout doesn't necessarily need preseason reps to get ready before Week 1. That being said, fantasy managers shouldn't be alarmed if Thielen sits out the entire preseason. He's coming off an excellent first year in Carolina where he recorded over 100 receptions and 1,000-plus yards in 17 games. The expectation is that Thielen will once again be a focal point in the Panthers offense this upcoming season. In his absence, Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall figure to see a majority of the starting reps on Saturday.

Wednesday, September 4, 7:33 PM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman has endured an injury-riddled career so far and hasn't lived up to the expectations that come with a first-round draft pick. The former 27th-overall pick enters this year with a lot to prove and some added expectations after the team didn't retain Odell Beckham Jr. All of the talk surrounding Bateman in camp has been positive, so it seems Bateman could be in for a better year, but fantasy managers should proceed with caution. While he only missed one game last year, he operated as the third and fourth receiver most times while posting 367 yards and one touchdown on 32 receptions. Bateman isn't on the fantasy radar during Week 1, but could be a stash type of player if he shows improvement.