Who Should I Start? Kayshon Boutte or Devaughn Vele

Saturday, November 22, 10:34 AM

New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (hamstring) returns from a two-game absence this Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. While fantasy managers will be excited to get the third-year receiver back for Week 12, expectations should be tempered as he prepares for a challenging matchup. Cincinnati's defense has been soft in many areas this year, but its one main area of strength has been shutting down receivers who operate out wide. The Bengals have allowed the second-fewest points to perimeter receivers, which is where Boutte has amassed 89.3% of his snaps. Even though he'll likely be the Patriots' No. 2 receiver this week, he ranks outside the top 36 fantasy receivers and has a very low floor in this specific matchup. Stefon Diggs and Hunter Henry are far better fantasy options among the Patriots' pass catchers in Week 12.

Saturday, November 22, 12:32 PM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Devaughn Vele has yet to carve out a significant role in the Big Easy, recording just six receptions for 54 yards and a touchdown on the season. However, with the team set to waive veteran Brandin Cooks, there will be additional opportunity for Vele to contribute in the offense. He has received eight targets in his last two contests and was on the field for a season-high 87% of snaps in the Week 10 win against the Panthers. With the Saints lacking a clear-cut WR2 behind Olave, Vele will compete with Mason Tipton for targets, though Tipton played just 34% of snaps in their last game. Given the potential increase in role, he's worth monitoring in deep leagues.