Who Should I Start? DJ Moore or Deebo Samuel Sr.

Thursday, December 25, 12:00 PM

Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore has been on a tear over the previous few weeks and is poised to retain an elevated role in the offense amid injuries to his teammates. Moore felt like an afterthought in Chicago's attack early in the campaign. Through the first nine games of the year, the University of Maryland alum had recorded just one touchdown and three double-digit fantasy performances. However, he's been more involved over the last month or so, particularly with fellow wideout Rome Odunze (foot) battling a nagging foot issue. While it's unclear if Odunze will miss a fourth straight outing, he's yet to practice in any capacity since Week 15. Furthermore, rookie Luther Burden III (ankle) could also be out again. If one or both are inactive, fantasy managers can rely on Moore as a solid WR2 with upside against a vulnerable San Francisco 49ers defense on Sunday Night Football.

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.