Who Should I Start? Daniel Carlson or Chase McLaughlin

Friday, September 5, 8:03 PM

Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson enters the 2025 season in the middle tier of fantasy options after two straight years of declining accuracy. Once considered one of the league's most reliable legs, Carlson now finds himself tied to an offense that remains more potential than production. His Week 1 matchup against the Patriots does little to boost his outlook, as New England's defense should keep scoring opportunities limited. Until the Raiders prove they can sustain drives and finish possessions consistently, Carlson is best left on the waiver wire. For now, he's a low-end streaming option without dependable week-to-week fantasy value.

Saturday, September 6, 9:59 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers kicker Chase McLaughlin will look to keep the good times rolling after a strong 2024 campaign. McLaughlin posted a career-high 93.8 percent conversion rate on field-goal attempts last season. The 29-year-old knocked down 30-of-32 field goals and 54-of-56 extra point attempts across 17 games with the Bucs. He'll enter his third season in Tampa Bay as it appears McLaughlin has found a long term home. The Bucs have a strong enough offense to give McLaughlin plenty of opportunities. McLaughlin should be considered a strong kicking option in what could be a high-scoring game in Week 1 versus the Atlanta Falcons.