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

Friday, October 17, 9:05 PM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba draws a tough matchup in Week 7 against the Houston Texans. The Texans boast one of the best defenses in the NFL, particularly against the pass. However, Smith-Njigba has been matchup-proof in 2025. He has yet to score less than 13 PPR fantasy points in a game this season. That is due to JSN's uncanny ability to separate and his clear chemistry with quarterback Sam Darnold. Smith-Njigba's high floor is buoyed by his 56 targets, which is good for No. 5 in the NFL. Additionally, Smith-Njigba is averaging an eye-popping 16.6 yards per catch. He is not the underneath threat that he has been through two seasons in the NFL. He is catching deep bombs, which are leading to big plays and touchdowns. The Texans may be able to keep a lid on JSN over the top. However, his volume and route-running savvy will make him a safe WR1 this week.

Sunday, October 12, 10:13 PM

After a slow start to the 2025 season, his second year in the NFL, Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has heated up the last two weeks. In the 20-12 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, Thomas had eight catches on 10 targets for a season-high 90 yards and his first touchdown of the year. He led the team in targets, catches, and receiving yards. Thomas' eight catches were the most he's had in a game this season, and he's now caught 12 passes for 170 yards and a touchdown on 16 targets in the last two weeks. Fantasy managers are hoping that the 23-year-old second-year pass-catcher is just starting to find his groove with quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Thomas had over 1,200 yards receiving and 10 total touchdowns in 2024, so we know what he's capable of. He'll be a must-start in a Week 7 matchup in London against the Los Angeles Rams.