Who Should I Start? Parker Washington or Dont'e Thornton Jr.

Thursday, August 7, 4:18 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars beat writer John Oehser writes that wide receiver Parker Washington's improvement and approach has been constant since the arrival of new head coach Liam Coen, and the offensive staff "continues to be impressed by Washington's versatility and production." "He can plug and play at different spots and go and execute a wide route tree," offensive coordinator Grant Udinski said. The 23-year-old is expected to be the team's No. 4 wideout this year alongside rookie Travis Hunter, Brian Thomas Jr. and Dyami Brown. Washington caught 32 passes for 390 yards and three touchdowns for the Jags a year ago and is showing that he can be reliable and productive in Coen's scheme. He's produced 48 catches on 72 targets for 522 yards and five touchdowns in 26 games (eight starts) in his two NFL seasons. Unless an injury opens up more playing time, Washington is one to avoid in 12-team leagues.

Friday, September 12, 1:50 PM

Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. was quiet in the team's Week 1 win over New England, logging just two catches on four targets for 45 yards while playing 60% of the snaps. Encouragingly, he drew more targets than Tre Tucker despite fewer snaps, and the Raiders leaned on the passing game as Geno Smith threw for 362 yards. With Chip Kelly determined to stretch the field, Thornton's speed keeps him in play as a stash with big-play potential. The Week 2 matchup adds intrigue, as the Chargers just allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers in Week 1, giving Thornton an outside chance to make noise if he sees increased usage. Until his role grows, he's best kept on benches, but the upside is worth monitoring.