Who Should I Start? Michael Thomas or Kayshon Boutte

Friday, September 29, 9:22 AM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas has remained consistent throughout his career. While his numbers have fallen since his prime years, he is still garnering a 25.7% target share on the season with an average of 8.7 targets per game. That volume alone is enough to warrant a fantasy start. The concern is his efficiency with that volume, as his average yards per reception is at a career-low 9.2. PPR leagues reward receptions, making Thomas a valuable flex option, but he has yet to score a touchdown in 2023 and has not yet cleared 61 receiving yards in a game. Start him in PPR leagues with a safe floor, but know that his upside is limited.

Sunday, August 20, 9:09 AM

New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte caught both his targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's 21-17 preseason win over the Green Bay Packers. Bailey Zappe connected with Boutte for a 42-yard touchdown strike with a minute left before the first half. The 21-year-old made the most of his opportunity on Saturday, catching both targets while racking up 32 yards after the catch. Boutte is battling Demario Douglas and Tre Nixon for a roster spot on New England's wide receiver depth chart behind JuJu Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne, and Tyquan Thornton.