Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel Sr. or Brian Thomas Jr.

Wednesday, December 24, 9:54 AM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. has been held under 50 yards in three straight games and hasn't found the end zone since Week 11. Samuel has exceeded 50 receiving yards only twice over the past nine games. The former San Francisco 49er draws a potential get-right spot on Christmas Day against the Dallas Cowboys, who have struggled to defend the pass. Dallas has allowed the most passing yards per game and the most PPR points per game to wide receivers this season. Washington's pass-catchers could take a hit for fantasy with quarterback Marcus Mariota (hand, quadriceps) uncertain to play after missing consecutive practices to begin the week, opening the door for journeyman Josh Johnson to make his first start since 2021. Samuel currently ranks as RotoBaller's WR29 in PPR leagues in Week 17.

Saturday, December 27, 12:06 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. is an interesting player in Week 17 against the Indianapolis Colts. The Jaguars' offense has been impressive over the last few weeks, but that hasn't meant guaranteed production for the second-year pro. With that said, the Colts are a great matchup, which Thomas Jr. somewhat took advantage of in Week 14, putting up 87 yards on just three catches. If BTJ can combine that big-play ability with an endzone trip or two, he could be in for a big day. However, after just 18 yards last week, he is difficult to trust. Thomas Jr. is a boom-or-bust play that is certainly worth consideration in Week 17, especially with the numerous injuries to close out the season.