Who Should I Start? Jalen Nailor or Luther Burden III

Wednesday, December 24, 3:20 PM

Due to a litany of injuries around him, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor is a lowly rated option when the Vikings play host to the Detroit Lions on Christmas Day. The Michigan State product has developed a solid chemistry with starter J.J. McCarthy (hand), but the latter will miss Thursday's game, giving way to undrafted rookie Max Brosmer. Detroit ranks a bottom-tier 31st against PPR receivers, though the Vikings are beaten up and on a short week. In addition to McCarthy, the Vikings will be without star left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee), center Ryan Kelly (concussion), tight end T.J. Hockenson (shoulder), running back Jordan Mason (ankle), and could be without right tackle Brian O'Neill (heel) as well. Nailor's varied role in the offense is difficult to rely upon anyway, as the receiver has not caught a pass three times in the past five weeks, yet had one game with two touchdowns. Ranked as RotoBaller's No. 86 receiver this week, Nailor is avoidable in all formats.

Thursday, January 15, 10:50 AM

Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III hauled in three of seven targets for 42 yards in the 31-27 win over the Green Bay Packers. Despite the wild victory over the division-rival Packers, Burden struggled, posting his worst statistical game since Week 13 and stopping on a route that led to an interception. The second-round pick has become a key part of the Bears' passing game, and he has an opportunity to explode in the Divisional Round. He faces a Los Angeles Rams defense that has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to wide receivers this season and has struggled as of late, allowing big games to Amon-Ra St. Brown, Michael Wilson, and Jalen Coker in the last six weeks. Burden is a high-ceiling option at the wide receiver position who could be a game-changer in what should be a high-scoring affair.