Who Should I Start? Sam LaPorta or Brian Robinson Jr.

Monday, January 6, 1:09 AM

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta caught all seven of his targets for 63 yards during Sunday's Week 18 win over the Minnesota Vikings. LaPorta played a large role in helping the Lions secure the NFC's top seed, both this weekend and over a greater stretch of games. In fact, over the final six weeks of the regular season, he ranked first among tight ends in fantasy points (tied with Trey McBride). It was impressive to watch the 23-year-old overcome a tough start to 2024 and finish the season as one of fantasy football's most productive, impactful tight ends. He should remain in the mid-range TE1 tier for 2025, and this season should serve as a reminder to fantasy managers that LaPorta is a top fantasy option regardless of whether his role in the Detroit offense takes a little while to develop.

Sunday, January 12, 11:23 PM

Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. tallied just 16 yards on ten attempts during their victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Robinson was deployed as the top option in the backfield but could not get any rhythm going in the running game. He performed better as a receiver, bringing in four of his five targets for 22 yards. Later in the game, the Commanders opted to give Austin Ekeler starting opportunities, which could suggest that Robinson may have a smaller workload in next weekend's game against the Detroit Lions. During Weeks 16 through 18, the Alabama product also struggled, averaging an underwhelming 31.3 yards per game. DFS players should opt to fade Robinson next weekend, as he will face a Detroit defense that has allowed the third-fewest PPR points per game to opposing RBs.