Who Should I Start? Jaylin Lane or Dont'e Thornton Jr.

Saturday, October 11, 10:31 PM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Jaylin Lane has made a big impact as a punt returner this season and has made plays when his number has been called on offense. Lane has seen more time on offense with top wide receivers Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (quad, knee), both dealing with mult-game absences. Lane caught only one ball in Washington's Week 5 win over the Chargers, but it came on a crucial 3rd and 16 deep in their own territory in the second quarter that helped sustain the drive and lead to their first touchdown of the game. And if Deebo Samuel Sr. (heel) is unable to go, Lane would likely be in line to take some of those designed and underneath targets to get the ball in his hands. Samuel looks like a true game-time decision, which is a frustrating situation on Monday night. The rookie wide receiver has upside against a Bears defense that has allowed the sixth most PPR points per game to opposing wide receivers through four games this season.

Saturday, October 4, 6:47 PM

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. has yet to establish a consistent role in the team's offense, and his opportunities continue to dwindle as the Raiders shift toward heavier two-tight-end formations. In Week 4 against the Bears, Thornton saw just two targets and failed to record a catch, marking another quiet outing for the rookie. With Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker entrenched as the primary receivers and fellow rookie Jack Bech beginning to see occasional involvement, Thornton has fallen further down the depth chart. Until his target share increases or his role expands, fantasy managers can safely move on from Thornton in all formats. He remains a developmental stash at best, with little short-term fantasy appeal.