Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel Sr. or Tetairoa McMillan

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.

Tuesday, January 27, 12:39 PM

Across 17 games in 2025, Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan recorded 70 receptions for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns on 122 targets. The number eight overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, McMillan established himself as the number one wide receiver in Carolina right away as a rookie. The 22-year-old also closed the season strong, recording five of his seven touchdown catches from Week 11 onwards. Heading into 2026, McMillan should have the benefit of stability in Carolina. The Panthers made the playoffs in 2025 for the first time since 2017 and figure to retain both quarterback Bryce Young and play-calling head coach Dave Canales. Carolina struggled to find reliable pass-catchers outside of McMillan in 2025, so the team could look to bring in additional talent. However, any potential additions seem unlikely to unseat McMillan as the option in the pass game. All in all, McMillan profiles as a fantasy wide receiver on the rise in both dynasty and redraft formats after his strong rookie season.