Who Should I Start? Dont'e Thornton Jr. or Isaiah Bond

Monday, February 16, 5:56 PM

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. had an underwhelming rookie season, catching just 10 of his 30 targets for 135 yards through 15 games. There was plenty of preseason hype about the Tennessee product, so it was frustrating to see that he never really produced at a significant level. Part of the blame falls on Thornton himself, but we can also attribute some of it to the poor state of the Raiders' offense. Quarterback Geno Smith struggled during his first year with the team, amassing 17 interceptions and just 19 touchdowns. All signs point to Vegas drafting college football standout Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, which would put the offense in a better state and potentially lead to more upside for Thornton. He could also pick up some additional targets with veteran Tyler Lockett headed for free agency. The 23-year-old is a very intriguing buy-low candidate in dynasty leagues after his quiet season. Dynasty managers may have already grown impatient with Thornton, meaning that he could be acquired at minimal cost.

Friday, February 13, 3:13 PM

Across 16 games as a rookie in 2025, Cleveland Browns wide receiver Isaiah Bond hauled in 18 receptions for 338 yards on 44 targets. While Bond's overall numbers don't jump off the page, he showcased an ability to make plays down the field by averaging 18.8 yards per reception. However, the 21-year-old failed to earn more than four targets in any game from Week 6 onwards. Across seven games started by Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders, Bond recorded seven catches for 215 yards. In 2026, Cleveland will have a new play-caller at the helm after replacing long-time head coach Kevin Stefanski with former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Still, the offensive environment around Bond remains a question mark, as Cleveland remains without a clear answer at the quarterback position. Bond should have an opportunity to carve out a consistent role in the Browns' offense in 2026, but he still has plenty to prove to dynasty fantasy managers after his quiet rookie campaign.