Who Should I Start? Alec Pierce or Dont'e Thornton Jr.

Thursday, September 4, 10:01 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (groin) was not listed on the team's initial injury report on Wednesday. This is an excellent sign for the fourth-year wideout as he was diagnosed with a groin injury in August. In addition, Pierce was also a full participant during Thursday's practice, further suggesting he will be a full-go for Sunday's contest against the Miami Dolphins. Last season, Piece went on to have a career year, totaling 824 yards and seven touchdowns on just 37 catches. Despite playing in a crowded wide receiver room, Pierce was able to emerge as Indianapolis's primary deep threat. He tallied over 100 yards in three games and caught seven passes longer than 40 yards. However, given his role as the team's No. 3 WR, he is best left as a sneaky budget play in DFS.

Tuesday, September 2, 7:18 PM

Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. is listed as a starter on the team's unofficial depth chart heading into a Week 1 matchup against the New England Patriots this Sunday. Meanwhile, Amari Cooper is listed on the second string after signing with the team late in training camp. Cooper could eventually become a bigger part of Vegas' offense, but going into the season opener, Thornton figures to have a big role in the passing attack. He should start in three-wide sets alongside Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker. The 22-year-old fourth-rounder has emerged ahead of fellow rookie Jack Bech after a strong training camp and preseason, but it remains to be seen exactly how much he'll be targeted by quarterback Geno Smith out of the gates. But Thornton's output alone this summer makes him deserving of a roster spot for receiver depth in deeper fantasy formats.