Who Should I Start? Malik Washington or Luther Burden III

Sunday, August 10, 3:02 PM

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington "is WR No. 3" behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, according to Omar Kelly of the Miami Herald. A sixth-round pick out of Virginia in the 2024 draft, Washington recorded 26 catches for 223 yards in 14 games (three starts) for the Dolphins as a rookie. With Hill (oblique) currently sidelined by an oblique injury, Washington could be in line for a larger role than might otherwise be expected. However, Hill's availability for Week 1 is not currently thought to be in danger. If Hill is healthy, he and Waddle should dominate wide receiver targets in Miami. Washington would need one or both of the Dolphins' star receivers to miss time to factor in fantasy this season, but it's noteworthy that he appears to be the clear next man up in the pecking order.

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.