Who Should I Start? Justin Jefferson or Rashid Shaheed

Friday, December 26, 10:45 AM

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson finished Thursday's 23-10 victory against the Detroit Lions with four catches on five targets for 30 yards, a modest output despite the Vikings' inability to do much of anything in the passing game. Playing without starter J.J. McCarthy (hand) and already missing backup Carson Wentz (shoulder) for the season, the Vikings turned over the keys to undrafted rookie Max Brosmer, which went as expected. Brosmer threw for 51 yards and lost 48 yards to sacks, leading to just three net passing yards. A heroic performance from the Minnesota defense, which forced a whopping six turnovers, gave the offense a chance, and two rushing touchdowns were just enough. For managers rostering Jefferson, however, it was yet another frustrating outing limited by the offense around him. Of note, the superstar is 53 receiving yards from 1,000 with one game to go. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has made reaching the milestone a stated goal, so the gameplan may heavily feature Jefferson in a Week 18 game against Green Bay.

Friday, December 26, 7:39 PM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Rashid Shaheed is a risky play against the Carolina Panthers in Week 17. Shaheed has come alive over the last three weeks, posting no less than 67 receiving yards or a touchdown in any given week. However, he only earned one target in Week 16, and most of his points came from a punt return for a touchdown. Shaheed should earn more than one target in Week 17, but the Panthers have a solid secondary that has given opposing passing games fits this season. Shaheed's role in the offense is evolving into more of the downfield role he held in New Orleans. As such, he is always a threat for a bomb touchdown reception. On the other hand, the Seahawks have shown that in unfavorable matchups, their only reliable wide receiver is generally Jaxon Smith-Njigba. If you need upside for a big play, Shaheed is your guy, but proceed with caution for championship week because he is always a threat to sink your week.