Who Should I Start? Allen Lazard or Rhamondre Stevenson

Tuesday, December 16, 10:48 AM

The New York Jets are releasing wide receiver Allen Lazard, Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic reports. Lazard hasn't played a significant role for the Jets this season, collecting 10 catches for 70 yards on 18 targets in 10 games. His snap share dipped to just 22.4% over the past three games after averaging 45.7% over his first seven games. The 29-year-old wideout was passed on the depth chart by trade-deadline acquisitions Adonai Mitchell and John Metchie III, who both present more youth and upside at the WR position. Lazard will likely be scooped by another team in the coming days, but he can be ignored in fantasy football.

Saturday, December 27, 9:27 AM

New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson has maintained a significant role in the team's backfield despite the emergence of rookie TreVeyon Henderson. Stevenson should remain involved during Sunday's Week 17 contest against the New York Jets. Several factors point in his favor this week, starting with his role. Henderson (concussion) is questionable, and if he doesn't clear concussion protocol in time, Stevenson would handle the lead-back role, likely playing more than 80% of the snaps. Additionally, Stevenson's managers should be excited about the game script. The Patriots are favored by 13.5 points, and this spread suggests that New England could frequently run the ball or throw it short to minimize turnovers and run out the clock. That works in Stevenson's favor because he has 26 carries and eight catches over his last three games. Furthermore, there will be more opportunities to go around with Kayshon Boutte (concussion) and Mack Hollins (abdomen) ruled out. These injuries could lead to more carries and targets for members of the backfield, including Stevenson. Finally, the 27-year-old gets a very favorable matchup against the Jets, who have allowed the most touchdowns and the third-most fantasy points to opposing running backs in 2025. If Henderson is inactive, Stevenson can be a high-end RB2 in fantasy football. However, even if Henderson plays, Stevenson is an appealing RB3/flex option.