Who Should I Start? Michael Thomas or Rashod Bateman

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.

Thursday, September 28, 3:10 PM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (hamstring) missed his second consecutive practice on Thursday. The second-year wideout has been involved in the offense in a limited capacity, garnering just three targets in each of the first three games of the season that have added up to seven receptions and 59 yards. With rookie Zay Flowers the new focus of Baltimore's receiving corps and Mark Andrews' presence at tight end, Bateman's time in the sun seems to have already passed. The Ravens take on the division-rival Cleveland Browns in Week 4, but there is no reason to believe Bateman will be any more involved. He is safe to drop in most leagues.