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

Saturday, September 6, 2:18 PM

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki finished the 2024 campaign with 65 catches (83 targets) for 665 yards. He also had two touchdowns, although they both came during the Week 7 matchup with the Browns. Gesicki and quarterback Joe Burrow built a strong rapport, resulting in the 29-year-old agreeing to a three-year, $25.5 million contract in March to remain in Cincinnati. The Bengals brought in Noah Fant this offseason. However, Gesicki is projected to lead the position in targets. That's not saying he will receive consistent attention from Burrow throughout the season, especially with Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown in the mix. Still, the Bengals explosive offense makes Gesicki a starting option in two-tight end setups versus Cleveland.

Tuesday, September 9, 3:09 PM

After watching how the Washington Commanders used new wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. in the Week 1 win over the New York Giants, The Athletic's Nicki Jhabvala writes that it's clear the team wants him to "be everywhere" and to "do everything." Samuel played 54 offensive snaps and caught seven of a team-high 10 targets for 77 yards. Most of his snaps (74.5%) and targets (six) cam from the slot, but the 29-year-old also lined up out wide and in the backfield. He had a 19-yard rushing touchdown and was used on three WR screens. With the 49ers, Samuel was a deep target around only eight times per year. But in Week 1 on Sunday he was targeted deep twice. He was also Washington's lead returner on kickoffs. It's no secret now that the Commanders plan to use Samuel a lot, and in all situations. It will leave him more vulnerable to injury, but it will also rejuvenate his fantasy appeal.