Who Should I Start? Kristian Wilkerson or Justin Shorter

Saturday, August 24, 10:36 AM

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson made a solid impression in the Raiders' preseason finale, snagging three catches for 35 yards and a touchdown in Friday's 24-24 tie to the San Francisco 49ers. While this performance boosts his chances of making the final roster, fantasy managers should temper their expectations. Even if Wilkerson secures a spot, he's likely to be no higher than fifth or sixth on the depth chart. In the Raiders' offense, this translates to minimal regular-season opportunities, barring multiple injuries ahead of him. His preseason touchdown showcases some red-zone potential, but Wilkerson's fantasy relevance will be severely limited with established targets like Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers ahead of him. At best, he's a name to remember for deep dynasty leagues or as a potential in-season waiver wire option if injuries decimate the Raiders' receiving corps. For now, Wilkerson remains off the radar in all but the deepest of fantasy formats.

Friday, September 5, 2:41 PM

The Las Vegas Raiders have made a series of back-of-roster moves, elevating third-year wide receiver Justin Shorter to the active roster and signing veteran receiver Phillip Dorsett to fill his spot on the practice squad. The Raiders were able to open a roster spot after moving Amari Cooper to the Reserve/Retired list following his unheralded retirement announcement on Thursday. At 6'4" and 227 pounds, Shorter was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2023 but spent his rookie season on injured reserve. He spent 2024 between the Raiders' active roster and practice squad as he transitioned to playing tight end. He made ten regular-season appearances without registering a stat. While the Raiders search for any depth in the wide receiver room, Shorter's signing should have no significance to fantasy managers.