Who Should I Start? John Metchie III or Tez Johnson

Friday, January 2, 11:00 AM

After being acquired by the New York Jets from the Philadelphia Eagles in late October, wide receiver John Metchie III looked like a potential breakout candidate. Across his first three games with New York, the 25-year-old recorded 10 receptions for 113 yards and two touchdowns on 11 targets. However, Metchie III has been unable to maintain his hot start. Over his last five games played, Metchie III has failed to eclipse four catches or 41 receiving yards in a game, nor has he found the end zone. Metchie III's playing time has dropped off slightly as well, as he's played 77% or fewer of the Jets' offensive snaps in two out of the last three weeks. Especially with undrafted rookie quarterback Brady Cook in line to make his fourth straight start for the Jets in Week 18 against the Buffalo Bills, there's little reason to think Metchie III will reverse recent trends. He profiles as a wide receiver for fantasy managers to avoid in the final week of the 2025 regular season.

Tuesday, December 30, 9:18 PM

Across a seven-game stretch from Week 5 to Week 12, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Tez Johnson recorded 22 receptions for 274 yards and five touchdowns on 34 targets. However, Tampa Bay has welcomed wide receivers Mike Evans, Chris Godwin Jr., and Jalen McMillan back from injury in recent weeks, burying Johnson on the depth chart. Over his last five games, Johnson has hauled in just four catches for 18 yards. The 23-year-old has also played 16 or fewer offensive snaps in three consecutive outings. Heading into the team's Week 18 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, there is little indication that Johnson is ticketed for a significant role in the Tampa Bay offense. Johnson has shown enough in his rookie season to carry some upside in dynasty formats, but he should likely be off the radar of redraft fantasy managers in Week 18.