Who Should I Start? Allen Lazard or Rashod Bateman

Tuesday, October 14, 9:41 PM

New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard has recorded just four catches for 24 yards on six targets across four games so far this season. Still, Lazard could have a chance to make his mark in New York now that star Jets wideout Garrett Wilson (knee) is facing a multi-week absence due to a knee injury. Lazard missed the team's Week 6 matchup against the Denver Broncos due to personal reasons, so his status for Week 7 is somewhat unclear. If he's able to return to the lineup in Week 7, Lazard could be the favorite to start at wide receiver for the Jets alongside fellow veteran Josh Reynolds in a favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers. In the very deepest of fantasy leagues, Lazard could be a short-term desperation flex option while Wilson is sidelined.

Saturday, October 11, 10:31 AM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman has a chance to be the WR1 this week with Zay Flowers (shoulder) listed as questionable. Unfortunately, that won't move the fantasy value needle too much while Lamar Jackson (hamstring) remains sidelined. In Week 5, he saw three targets, but didn't register a single reception. As long as the offensive line continues to struggle, Bateman isn't likely to see many downfield throws, especially in a simplified offense for Cooper Rush. As of right now, he's projected to finish around WR72 in half-PPR formats, so there are probably better options on the waiver wire for fantasy managers in need of a flex.