Who Should I Start? Jaxon Smith-Njigba or Brian Thomas Jr.

Tuesday, August 5, 8:19 PM

The Athletic's Michael-Shawn Dugar writes that Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba "plays everywhere" and is a "threat everywhere." Additionally, he's being targeted from everywhere in training camp practices. The 23-year-old former 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft out of Ohio State broke out in his second year in the league in 2024 and was Seattle's most productive wideout, outshining both DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett with 100 catches on 137 targets for 1,130 yards and six touchdowns in 17 games (16 starts). Heading into his third year, he'll share targets with newcomer Cooper Kupp with both Metcalf and Lockett no longer in town. It's great news that JSN is being targeted all around the field, but will he be as effective with new quarterback Sam Darnold. Fantasy managers should be willing to pay the price of a WR2 to find out.

Thursday, August 7, 12:52 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (illness) is back at training camp practice on Thursday, according to Michael DiRocco of ESPN. Thomas returns after sitting out on Wednesday while being under the weather. Head coach Liam Coen said that "everybody" will play in the preseason opener this Saturday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, so Thomas should be on the field. The 22-year-old is a top-10 fantasy wideout going into his second NFL campaign after impressing to the tune of 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns in 17 games (16 starts) as a rookie. The Jags added two-way star Travis Hunter in the first round this year, and he should take over immediately as the WR2 across from Thomas to help draw some attention away from him. In Coen's offense, Thomas could be even more prolific in Year 2.