Who Should I Start? Rashod Bateman or Michael Wilson

Friday, January 2, 9:28 PM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (illness) is listed as questionable but is expected to suit up for Sunday's Week 18 contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bateman is likely to play despite missing practice all week due to a lingering illness. The Ravens are likely going to wait and see how Bateman feels closer to game time before making a final decision. Even if he's active, Bateman isn't a reliable fantasy option. Since Week 11, Bateman has hauled in three receptions for 30 yards. Fantasy managers should look elsewhere for help, even if Bateman is active. The absence of Bateman would mean slightly increased value for DeAndre Hopkins and Tylan Wallace in a must-win game that will decide the AFC North division.

Sunday, January 4, 9:01 PM

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Wilson caught five of his eight targets for 99 yards and one touchdown during Sunday's Week 18 loss against the Los Angeles Rams. The highlight of his performance was a 43-yard touchdown in the third quarter that temporarily pulled Arizona within one possession. The Cardinals limped to a 3-14 record this season, but Wilson ended up being a league-winner in many fantasy leagues thanks to his incredibly strong second half of the campaign. The 25-year-old eclipsed 1,000 yards for the first time in his career, and he ranked as the overall WR2 from Week 11 through the end of the season. On paper, Marvin Harrison Jr. might enter the 2026 season as Arizona's No. 1 receiver. However, based on track record, Wilson has made quite the case to be the Cardinals' top pass-catcher not named Trey McBride. Quarterback uncertainty creates some questions about Wilson's fantasy stock for next year, but there's no denying that he has top-12 upside heading into next summer's drafts.