Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel or DeVonta Smith

Friday, December 20, 11:40 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. will bring the least productive five-game stretch of his career into a Week 16 matchup in Miami on Sunday. He is averaging 3.3 half-PPR points over that stretch, including a 3.4-point performance last Thursday at home versus the Los Angeles Rams. Samuel Sr. reached a low point when he dropped an important 3rd-down pass in LA territory to a chorus of boos from the home fans. He'll have better days ahead -- he's certainly a better player than this -- but at this point, Samuel Sr. is untrustable in fantasy. In addition, Miami's tough pass defense has limited fantasy receivers to the second-lowest total in the league. Perhaps Samuel Sr. sees an increase in carries, with the 49ers down to their fifth-, sixth-, and seventh-string running backs due to a deluge of injuries. It might not matter much, though, as he's only averaging 2.7 yards per carry this year with one rushing touchdown, way back in Week 1. He's projected as a WR4 this week, and most Samuel Sr. managers still in the fantasy playoffs probably benched him long ago.

Friday, December 20, 11:06 PM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith looks to keep his momentum rolling in Week 16 against the Washington Commanders. Smith has scored in back-to-back games, including an 11-catch, 109-yard performance in the Eagles' 27-13 win over the Steelers. It was his best game of the season, fueled by a season-high 12 targets, as Philadelphia's passing attack clicked. While Washington's defense is stingy, ranking fourth in passing yards allowed per game (189.6), they have struggled in the red zone, surrendering 23 passing touchdowns this season. Smith's ability to earn targets and convert them into scoring opportunities makes him a solid WR2/Flex with upside this week. Fantasy managers should feel confident starting Smith as Philadelphia's offense looks to stay hot.