Who Should I Start? Mike Evans or Deebo Samuel Sr.

Friday, September 5, 8:52 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans missed three games last season and still was able to keep his 1,000-yard streak alive. Evans is Mr. Reliable and he has earned that title after 11 straight seasons with 1,000 receiving yards or more. Fantasy managers should expect Evans to continue having success in 2025. The Bucs are shorthanded at wideout to begin the season with Chris Godwin (ankle) and Jalen McMillan (neck) both out. That being said, Evans is expected to be leaned on heavily in the passing game. The Atlanta Falcons aren't known for their elite defense, so fantasy managers should be able to count on Evans as a WR1 for Week 1. There should be plenty of opportunities for the 32-year-old as he looks to make it 12 straight seasons with 1,000 receiving yards.

Sunday, September 7, 7:40 PM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. caught seven of his 10 targets for 77 yards during Sunday's Week 1 win over the New York Giants. He also added a 19-yard rushing touchdown. On a team with several weapons on the offensive side of the ball, it was intriguing to see Samuel emerge as the top contributor. He had 14 more scrimmage yards than Jacory Croskey-Merritt, five more receptions than Terry McLaurin, and twice as many targets as Zach Ertz. Given his prominent role, Samuel should be trusted as a low-end WR2 heading into Thursday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers.