Who Should I Start? Adam Thielen or Tetairoa McMillan

Friday, September 19, 7:42 PM

Coming off two poor offensive weeks, things look even worse for the Minnesota Vikings and wide receiver Adam Thielen in Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals. While the Bengals' secondary is normally a green-light matchup for receivers, the surrounding circumstances for the Vikings are not good. If starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee), who is questionable on the injury report, is not ready to return from ACL rehab, the Vikings will be down to a third-string left tackle in addition to a backup quarterback and a first-time starter at center. For a team already allowing an NFL worst 18% sack rate, there is no reason to put any faith in a second-rate passing game if a manager has any other options.

Thursday, September 25, 2:13 PM

Carolina Panthers rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan (calf) returned to practice on Thursday after sitting out Wednesday, a positive sign for his availability in Sunday's matchup with the New England Patriots. With Xavier Legette (hamstring) still sidelined, McMillan is positioned to handle a large share of the passing volume in Week 4. The 2024 second-round pick has been productive early, posting 216 yards through three games while emerging as Bryce Young's most reliable option. Although he's yet to find the end zone, that could change this week against a Patriots defense that has already surrendered five passing touchdowns. Fantasy managers should start McMillan as a WR2, especially in deeper leagues, as he brings both a solid target floor and intriguing upside in a game where Carolina could lean heavily on him.