Who Should I Start? Rashod Bateman or Tetairoa McMillan

Friday, May 9, 10:15 PM

While searching for a wide receiver, the Dallas Cowboys looked into a trade for Baltimore Ravens wideout Rashod Bateman, sources told FOX Sports' Jordan Schultz. The talks between the two teams didn't go far, though, and Dallas ultimately ended up acquiring pass-catcher George Pickens after this year's NFL draft. Bateman attracted interest from a receiver-needy team after a career year in 2024 in which he caught 45 of his 72 targets for 756 yards and nine touchdowns in 17 regular-season games (14 starts). It was nice to see from the 25-year-old former first-rounder, but fantasy managers probably shouldn't expect more growth in 2025, especially not in the touchdown department. The Ravens remain a run-first offensive operation, and the addition of veteran DeAndre Hopkins won't help Bateman's cause. Zay Flowers should once again lead Baltimore in targets if he stays healthy.

Thursday, May 8, 10:59 PM

The Carolina Panthers have signed rookie first-round wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan to a four-year, $27.93 million contract. McMillan was the first receiver selected in April's draft, chosen No. 8 overall by Carolina. The hulking pass-catcher (6-foot-4) will reportedly operate as the team's X receiver with veteran Adam Thielen manning the slot and Xavier Legette rounding out the corps at the Z. It's a natural fit for the Arizona product, as his frame and metrics support the position. He was excellent during his final two seasons at college, amassing 174 receptions, 2,721 yards, and 18 touchdowns, and projects to slot in as a high-volume target for quarterback Bryce Young. McMillan is a superb selection early in rookie drafts, and could garner appeal in redraft leagues if Young's improvements from the tail end of 2024 stick.