Who Should I Start? Jake Bates or Spencer Shrader

Saturday, December 21, 9:25 AM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates can be started with confidence in Week 16 at the Chicago Bears. He is coming off a game against Buffalo in which he missed a 52-yard field goal but made all six of his extra points. The 52-yarder was his only attempt of the game so he will look to rebound a bit at Chicago this week. Tied to the Lions' high-powered offense, Bates is a trustworthy option for fantasy managers at the position. Look for more opportunities for field goals in this game and expect Bates to deliver this week.

Tuesday, November 26, 3:14 PM

Kansas City Chiefs rookie kicker Spencer Shrader (hamstring) will not participate in the team's first practice of the week on Tuesday. On a short week -- the Chiefs play the division-rival Las Vegas Raiders this Friday -- Shrader's availability is now in question. Harrison Butker (knee) is on Injured Reserve, so the 25-year-old was scooped up off the New York Jets' practice squad and has served as KC's kicker the last two games. He's held his own for the Super Bowl champions, converting on all three of his field-goal tries and all six of his extra-point attempts. As insurance, the Chiefs added Matthew Wright to their practice squad on Tuesday. The Raiders have allowed the most fantasy points per game to opposing kickers, so whoever is kicking for Kansas City on Black Friday is at least worth a look as a streamer at the position in Week 13. Whether the Chiefs activate Wright to the active roster will be a telling sign for Shrader this week.