Who Should I Start? Rashod Bateman or Jalen Nailor

Saturday, April 4, 6:52 PM

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jalen Nailor signed a lucrative three-year deal with the team this offseason. The signing rewarded him for a solid two-season stretch in Minnesota, during which he caught 57 passes for 858 yards and 10 touchdowns. His nose for the end zone is very encouraging, as it suggests that he could get onto the WR3/flex radar if he handles more volume and produces more yardage. Therein lies the big question for the 2026 season, though. As it stands, Nailor is in line to compete for No. 1 receiver duties with Tre Tucker. However, neither Nailor nor Tucker has much of a track record in a No. 1 receiver role. With the Raiders expected to draft Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 pick, we wouldn't be surprised if they bring in an established veteran to serve as the rookie's favorite target. Players like Keenan Allen and Jauan Jennings have both been heavily linked to Vegas. If the Raiders were to sign either one of them, Nailor would take one step down the pecking order, lowering his fantasy upside for 2026. Managers looking to buy low on the 27-year-old receiver should make sure they avoid overpaying, in case Nailor slips down the depth chart as free agency continues.