Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel Sr. or DeVonta Smith

Wednesday, October 15, 7:48 PM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (heel) continues to deal with a nagging heel injury and was listed as a non-participant at the first practice of the week on Wednesday. Samuel missed a couple of practices last week as well and was listed as questionable, but he played through his heel injury in Monday night's loss to the Chicago Bears. The 29-year-old was noticeably quiet, though, catching four passes for only 15 yards while playing 70% of the offensive snaps. It remains to be seen if his troublesome heel will slow him down again in Week 7 against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys, but as long as he's active, Samuel should be in starting fantasy lineups in a strong matchup. However, Samuel's fantasy ceiling will be lowered if Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) returns this weekend from a three-game absence. Samuel's status for the rest of the week also bears watching closely.

Wednesday, October 8, 6:47 PM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith boomed against the Broncos, recording his highest target and receiving yard counts of the season in a team-leading performance. The question with Smith, as usual, is whether or not he can turn this into consistency. After his last big game against the Rams, he followed it up with two catches on two targets in the next outing. This week, he does have a very favorable matchup against the Giants, who are allowing the second-most fantasy points to WRs this season. Plus, on a short week, Smith might be able to capitalize on a New York defense that's less than 100% conditioned. He's worth a WR3 spot in what should be his second consecutive strong week.