Who Should I Start? Adonai Mitchell or Dont'e Thornton Jr.

Wednesday, September 24, 9:10 AM

The Indianapolis Colts coaching staff is putting faith in second-year wide receiver Adonai Mitchell. A 2024 second-round pick, Mitchell struggled as a rookie, catching just 23 of 55 targets for 312 yards and failing to score a touchdown. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter expressed confidence in his development, saying, "When AD's number is called, AD is going to be ready for action." Mitchell could see a bigger role this week with Alec Pierce in the concussion protocol. Last season, Pierce missed one game, during which Mitchell played 89% of the snaps (his second-highest total of the year) but managed only one target that went for 36 yards. If Pierce is sidelined, Mitchell would likely slide into the WR3 role and could become a factor in the Colts' passing attack. For fantasy purposes, Mitchell remains off the radar outside of deep leagues, but his situation is worth monitoring if Pierce misses significant time.

Friday, September 26, 2:35 PM

Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. continues to disappoint fantasy managers, seeing his snap share dip to a season-low 59% in Week 4 as fellow rookie Jack Bech earned more playing time. While Thornton still drew four targets, he managed just two catches for 29 yards, extending his streak of underwhelming stat lines. Once viewed as a sleeper with breakout potential, Thornton's limited role and lack of consistent production make him expendable in most fantasy leagues. Managers in need of roster flexibility should feel comfortable dropping Thornton in favor of a waiver-wire option with a stronger target share and clearer path to relevance.