Who Should I Start? Brandon Powell or Darius Slayton

Wednesday, August 7, 9:20 AM

Minnesota Vikings wide receivers Jalen Nailor and Brandon Powell were listed as co-starters in the No. 3 role on the team's first unofficial depth chart. The wideout spot behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison is open following the departure of K.J. Osborn, and the pair of pass-catchers are the prime candidates to fill that gap. Nailor, a sixth-round pick out of Michigan State in 2022, has tallied 12 receptions for 208 yards and one touchdown through his first 21 NFL games. Powell, an undrafted free agent in 2018, has hauled in 76 receptions for 678 yards and three touchdowns in 55 games with the Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Rams, and Vikings. It will be interesting to see who comes out of the camp battle victorious, but neither is likely to have much fantasy value in an offense led by Sam Darnold or rookie J.J. McCarthy. However, one of the two wideouts could have deep-league value early in the season if Addison is suspended following his misdemeanor DUI charge, especially since tight end T.J. Hockenson (knee) is likely to miss the start of the regular season.

Sunday, December 22, 9:14 AM

New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton was once again quiet during last week's loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Slayton hauled in his lone target for 16 yards as he continues to be a non-factor in the offense. In fact, Slayton has finished with two receptions or less and 27 yards or fewer in each of his last four games. The 27-year-old is far behind Wan'Dale Robinson and Malik Nabers on the pecking order. It's tough to imagine Slayton being a viable option for Week 16. He does have a good matchup against the Atlanta Falcons defense, but most fantasy managers should be able to find a more reliable option. Slayton should be considered a low-end flex option in deep leagues.