Who Should I Start? Quentin Johnston or Mason Taylor

Friday, December 26, 9:59 AM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston reminded fantasy managers of his "boom" potential last week, erupting for 104 yards and a touchdown against the league's worst pass defense. However, his historical consistency remains an issue, and the pendulum swings back toward "bust" territory against the Houston Texans. The Texans are a defensive juggernaut, ranking first in EPA/Pass and second in pressure rate. While Johnston has overcome his groin injury, he now faces a secondary that excels at erasing deep threats and minimizing yards after the catch. In a game where Justin Herbert will likely be under constant duress, Johnston's high-variance profile makes him an extremely dangerous start in championship week. Unless you are chasing a miracle, the risk outweighs the reward. He is a touchdown-reliant, low-end WR4.

Friday, December 26, 11:49 AM

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, New York Jets tight end Mason Taylor (neck) will be unavailable for Sunday's divisional clash with the visiting New England Patriots. The rookie is set to miss his third straight game after suffering a neck injury in Week 14's 48-20 loss to the Jaguars. Unfortunately for Taylor, he's yet to log even a limited practice since picking up the issue. With the 21-year-old missing again, teammate Jeremy Ruckert will play a majority of snaps at the position for Gang Green, while Jelani Woods and Stone Smartt mix in behind him. None of them projects to be particularly involved enough to matter for fantasy.