Who Should I Start? Kayshon Boutte or Luther Burden III

Thursday, September 4, 7:18 PM

ESPN's Mike Reiss writes that New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte projects to start alongside Stefon Diggs and slot man DeMario Douglas going into Week 1 against the Las Vegas Raiders, with nine-year veteran Mack Hollins next on the depth chart. Rookies Kyle Williams and Efton Chism III will provide additional depth. Boutte may draw the "start" on Sunday in the season opener, but fantasy managers should expect the 23-year-old to split time with Hollins in three-wide sets. The former sixth-rounder is unlikely to be on the field enough or see enough targets to be a starting option in fantasy lineups in an offense that could have a steep learning curve early in the season. Even Diggs, the team's presumed WR1, will be a shaky WR4/flex in fantasy in Week 1 coming off an ACL tear. Boutte is currently rostered in 1% of Yahoo leagues.

Thursday, August 28, 10:37 PM

Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III is making an early mark with his run blocking. The former Missouri standout has shown a knack for driving defenders into the second level and clearing lanes for the ground game. While Burden still has work to do as a route runner and must sharpen his concentration in contested situations, his physicality and willingness to block stand out. Chicago coaches value receivers who contribute beyond catching passes, and Burden's effort could earn him more opportunities. With his athletic upside, the rookie has the tools to eventually become a reliable playmaker.