Who Should I Start? Mack Hollins or Arian Smith

Saturday, November 1, 9:59 AM

New England Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins has been one of the most underrated factors of the team's 6-2 start to the season. He has served as a reliable possession receiver who offers sure hands and an important veteran presence. Although he has just 18 catches through eight games, a big chunk of those receptions came last Sunday. In Week 8 against Cleveland, Hollins caught all seven of his targets for 89 yards. He has consistently earned playing time, logging more snaps than Stefon Diggs in three of the last four games. Under-the-radar production isn't exactly a new thing for Hollins, who quietly led the entire Buffalo Bills team in receiving touchdowns last year. Now contributing with the Patriots, he's offering similar value. This week, Hollins plays in a revenge game scenario against his old team, the Atlanta Falcons. Atlanta has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to wide receivers in 2025, but Hollins still has low-end WR3/flex value in deeper leagues.

Saturday, October 25, 4:22 AM

New York Jets wide receiver Arian Smith should again see a substantial uptick in playing time when his team squares off with the hosting Cincinnati Bengals in Week 8. The rookie played a season-high in snap share (92%) last weekend, with fellow wideout Garrett Wilson (knee) tending to injury. However, he failed to net positive yardage on 1-of-3 receiving. Smith will get another chance to make an impact this Sunday, although it's currently difficult to trust any of the Jets' skill position players with the offense failing to perform. Furthermore, head coach Aaron Glenn's refusal to name a starting quarterback muddies the situation further, adding an extra variable. With Wilson set to miss another game, and Josh Reynolds (hip) questionable with an injury of his own, Smith will have a chance to lead New York's WR corps if both are inactive. Even still, he's nothing more than a long shot with New York's offense looking woefully outmatched.