Who Should I Start? Nick Folk or Jake Bates

Friday, October 17, 9:15 PM

New York Jets placekicker Nick Folk is a low-end fantasy option for his team's contest with the visiting Carolina Panthers in Week 7. As has been the case all season, the veteran was perfect in Week 6, knocking through all three of his field goal attempts - a season-high. Carolina's defense has been stingy in the yardage department, but they're a bottom-half team in terms of scoring and one of the worst NFL teams regarding red zone efficiency. With that said, New York's offense may have trouble matriculating the ball sans its WR1 in Garrett Wilson. Folk has been excellent when called upon, and would be a reliable option if the Jets could find more offensive consistency. However, he again won't be a recommended fantasy asset despite what should be a juicy matchup. The 40-year-old is RotoBaller's K25 for this weekend's slate of games.

Saturday, November 1, 12:09 AM

Through seven games so far in 2025, Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has made an uninspiring eight out of 11 field goal attempts. However, Bates leads the NFL in both extra-point attempts (27) and makes (27). The Lions are currently averaging over 30 points scored per game, which has given Bates a relatively safe fantasy floor. In Week 9, Detroit will host the Minnesota Vikings. Playing inside the domed Ford Field, Bates will not have to deal with any potential weather concerns. In 12 career games at Ford Field, Bates has scored an average of 8.67 points per contest. He profiles as a must-start fantasy kicker in Week 9 against Minnesota.