Who Should I Start? JuJu Smith-Schuster or Tutu Atwell

Saturday, January 4, 2:02 PM

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster will take on the Denver Broncos in Week 18. Smith-Schuster appeared to be the Chiefs WR1 in the wake of Rashee Rice's injury, but then he also lost time to injury. By the time he returned, Kansas City had acquired DeAndre Hopkins, and Xavier Worthy had become more integrated into the offense. This week, Smith-Schuster could find himself with a more significant role, given the state of the team. The Chiefs have already clinched the top seed in the AFC and a first-round bye, meaning they are inclined to rest their starters in anticipation of the playoffs. If the starters rest and Smith-Schuster plays, he could be an interesting PPR play due to the routes he runs. That said, the veteran receiver must rely on Carson Wentz throwing him the football. Patrick Mahomes is doubtful for this week's contest and likely will not suit up. Another obstacle Smith-Schuster will have to contend with is the Broncos, who rank 16th in fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers this season. The 28-year-old is ranked WR76 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, making him a deep flex option this week. Fantasy managers starting Smith-Schuster will have to hope for a touchdown.

Thursday, March 6, 11:46 AM

The Los Angeles Rams are signing wide receiver Tutu Atwell to a one-year, $10 million fully guaranteed contract. The 2021 second-round pick out of Louisville was set to be a free agent with his rookie deal expiring, but he'll remain with the organization for at least one more season. Atwell has hauled in 99 receptions for 1,343 yards and four touchdowns in 54 career games. The speedster posted career highs in receptions (42) and receiving yards (562) in 2024. With Cooper Kupp likely to be traded, the organization keeps one of its depth wideouts to play behind Puka Nacua and whoever the team brings in this offseason. While Atwell is not a target hog or high-end producer, he stretches the field for Sean McVay's passing offense and could see an increased role in 2025.