Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel Sr. or Travis Hunter

Thursday, October 16, 3:07 PM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (heel) was not at the portion of practice open to the media on Thursday, according to The Athletic's Ben Standig. Samuel was a non-participant in Wednesday's practice as well, so this puts his availability firmly up in the air for the Week 7 game this Sunday against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys. The 29-year-old was questionable leading up to the Monday night loss to the Chicago Bears, too, although he suited up. Samuel played 70% of the offensive snaps, but he didn't look right, and caught only four passes for 15 yards in the one-point loss. With Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) potentially missing a fourth straight game, Washington could be looking at Luke McCaffrey and rookie Jaylin Lane leading their WR corps against Dallas if Samuel cannot play. Samuel may need to get in some practice on Friday to avoid being ruled out entirely this weekend.

Wednesday, October 15, 2:34 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen stated the team plans to expand rookie wide receiver Travis Hunter's role moving forward, utilizing his elite speed and athleticism more frequently within the offense. The second overall pick has caught 20 of 31 targets for 197 yards but has yet to find the end zone in his debut season. Despite early frustrations for fantasy managers, Coen's comments suggest an uptick in volume could be coming soon. Hunter's versatility as both a wide receiver and cornerback makes him one of the league's most dynamic young players, and additional touches could quickly boost his fantasy value. Managers in deeper leagues may want to hold tight, as Hunter's breakout could be on the horizon.