Who Should I Start? Jermaine Burton or Luke McCaffrey

Sunday, July 6, 11:53 AM

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Jermaine Burton continues to make a positive impression on the coaching staff. Head coach Zac Taylor has already touted the wideout's improved growth and maturity this offseason. However, it didn't end there, with offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher being the latest member of the staff to comment on Burton's personal development. "He's got a good look in his eye," stated Pitcher. "He's putting the time in." The 24-year-old, selected with the No. 80 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a forgettable rookie campaign, amassing only four catches (14 targets) for 107 yards. He was also held out of three contests while failing to find the end zone. Without question, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown will each command attention from quarterback Joe Burrow. Tight end Mike Gesicki should also be involved. Still, Burton has a chance to climb the depth chart, which could result in fewer snaps for Andrei Iosivas. With that said, Burton has a way to go before earning the trust of fantasy managers, although he's worth monitoring heading into Week 1. His ceiling could rise even more if Chase, Higgins, or Iosivas get injured at some point during the season, giving him streaming potential.

Monday, July 14, 6:22 PM

Washington Commanders receiver Luke McCaffrey impressed during the team's offseason practices and should have a more meaningful role in 2025, according to Mike Jones of The Athletic. Jones writes that McCaffrey "demonstrated an improved understanding of the playbook and improved confidence." A third-round selection in the 2024 NFL draft, McCaffrey logged just 18 catches for 168 yards and zero touchdowns as a rookie. The Commanders have Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel entrenched atop their depth chart at wide receiver, but there could be playing time available via the WR3 role. Veterans Noah Brown and Michael Gallup, as well as fourth-round rookie Jaylin Lane, are among the names McCaffrey will have to beat out for the job. He'll need to earn consistent playing time to become fantasy-relevant, but it appears as though McCaffrey will have that opportunity.