Who Should I Start? Khalil Shakir or Brian Thomas Jr.

Friday, October 4, 11:27 AM

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir (ankle) has been ruled out ahead of the Week 5 matchup against the Houston Texans. Shakir was pulled early during last week's game due to an ankle issue. It doesn't seem to be improving too well as he hasn't practiced this week. As a result, Shakir will sit out this week and will hopefully return in Week 6. His absence should mean increased roles for Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins. Also, tight end Dalton Kincaid should see more targets in the passing game with Shakir sidelined. Kincaid saw a season-high seven targets and finished with 47 yards last week.

Saturday, October 5, 1:31 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. has a great opportunity to reach even greater heights in Week 5 against the Indianapolis Colts. BTJ had six catches for 86 yards and a touchdown last week against the Houston Texans, and the Colts should be an easier matchup for the rookie. The Jaguars offense looked horrible to start the year but has slowly looked better as the year has progressed. Trevor Lawrence looked better last week, and was able to get both Christian Kirk and BTJ involved a lot in the passing game. Despite the team's early struggles, the first-round pick has exceeded expectations of fantasy managers so far and has not started slowly like many rookie receivers do. Evan Engram may return from injury this week providing more competition for targets, but that should more affect BTJ's red-zone usage, which hasn't been much as is. BTJ should continue to show off his speed and route-running against the Colts, making him a great flex play with WR2 upside.