Who Should I Start? Patrick Mahomes or Brock Bowers

Monday, August 18, 6:20 PM

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said on Monday that he expects quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the rest of the starters to play in Friday's preseason finale against the Chicago Bears. The Chiefs typically haven't played their starters in the preseason finale under Reid, but they'll change it up and give Mahomes and the starting offense a few series later this week. The 29-year-old two-time MVP played only three snaps in the preseason opener but still managed to throw a touchdown. Mahomes is no longer a high-end fantasy QB1 after the Chiefs offense took a step back last year, with the six-time Pro Bowler throwing for under 4,000 yards for the first time as a full-time starter. KC's offense just lacked any kind of downfield threat due to injuries to their receiving corps. A bounce-back is possible, though, and the Chiefs want to get back to being explosive downfield as an offense.

Saturday, August 16, 6:45 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers has seen his role shift under the new coaching staff in preseason games this year. After a dominant rookie year with 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns, Bowers was out-snapped 8-to-5 by Michael Mayer on Saturday. Mayer handled most first- and second-down work, while Bowers appeared primarily on third downs and passing situations. It's unclear if this is simply preseason management to limit wear and tear or an early sign of a new rotation. While still a TE1 with elite upside, Bowers' usage should be monitored heading into Week 1.