Who Should I Start? Cooper Kupp or Saquon Barkley

Friday, September 5, 2:13 PM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Cooper Kupp is checking in as a flex option in Week 1 against the San Francisco 49ers. Kupp is coming off a season with the Rams that began very auspiciously but finished horrendously. Kupp was a clear-cut WR1 over the first half of the season, but he was completely phased out of the offense towards the end. He only earned nine targets over his final three games, and he moved on from the Rams this offseason. Kupp did not show any signs of slowing down when he was given opportunities in 2024. This is certainly not the same player who took the league by storm in 2021, but Kupp should present solid value out of the slot in Seattle. He is going to be where quarterback Sam Darnold needs him to be at all times. San Francisco presents a tough matchup in Week 1, but they will need to focus their energy on stopping wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Kupp's role in the slot is more immune to tough matchups than outside wide receivers, giving him flex value with solid WR2 upside in Week 1.

Friday, September 5, 1:00 AM

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley carried the ball 18 times for 60 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown during Thursday's season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. He also caught four of his five targets for an additional 24 receiving yards. The superstar running back wasn't as efficient as expected, especially against a defense that just lost run-stopper Micah Parsons. However, Barkley's volume remained appealing as he amassed 23 touches with a healthy blend of carries and catches. Plus, he added a touchdown, showcasing an ability to score that we've become quite familiar with. The veteran remains a mid-range RB1 option heading into a Super Bowl rematch against the Kansas City Chiefs.