Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or Efton Chism III

Friday, January 2, 11:40 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Sterling Shepard has been completely phased out of the team's game plan with their WR corps at full strength, putting him on the back burner for fantasy. The 32-year-old was a bigger part of Tampa Bay's offense earlier in the campaign, as the receiving room dealt with a myriad of injuries. However, as veterans Mike Evans (rest) and Chris Godwin Jr., and second-year pro Jalen McMillan have returned to full health, Shepard has faded from the offense. In fact, Shepard has been a healthy scratch over the past few weeks, signaling the team's preference in the starting lineup. The Oklahoma product has been a fine secondary option over the course of his career, but he can be avoided for fantasy purposes in a loaded Bucs' pass-catching unit.

Sunday, October 26, 11:49 AM

New England Patriots wide receiver Efton Chism III (coach's decision) is a healthy scratch for Sunday's Week 8 contest against the Cleveland Browns. Chism was inactive for the first five games this season, but the rookie debuted in Week 6. He has logged offensive snaps in each of the last two contests. He has not yet been targeted in the passing game, but he does have seven kick returns. The 24-year-old undrafted free agent could remain a healthy scratch until another wide receiver suffers an injury.