Who Should I Start? DeAndre Hopkins or Michael Thomas

Thursday, September 28, 1:15 PM

Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins has hauled in 14 of his 25 targets for 153 yards in his first three games with the organization. The 31-year-old still looks like he has plenty of ability and is No. 11 in the NFL in target share (30.9%), but the Tennessee offense is holding him back. Quarterback Ryan Tannehill has been sacked 13 times (second-most) and has been under pressure often. Ultimately, the Tennessee passing attack looks like one of the worst in the NFL, meaning Hopkins could be at risk of posting duds every week. His overall target volume makes him an interesting fantasy option against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 4, but he's far from bust-proof -- as we've seen over the last two weeks. Hopkins practiced in full early in the week, but he could still carry an injury designation come Friday.

Friday, September 29, 9:22 AM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas has remained consistent throughout his career. While his numbers have fallen since his prime years, he is still garnering a 25.7% target share on the season with an average of 8.7 targets per game. That volume alone is enough to warrant a fantasy start. The concern is his efficiency with that volume, as his average yards per reception is at a career-low 9.2. PPR leagues reward receptions, making Thomas a valuable flex option, but he has yet to score a touchdown in 2023 and has not yet cleared 61 receiving yards in a game. Start him in PPR leagues with a safe floor, but know that his upside is limited.