Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or John Metchie 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.

Friday, January 2, 11:00 AM

After being acquired by the New York Jets from the Philadelphia Eagles in late October, wide receiver John Metchie III looked like a potential breakout candidate. Across his first three games with New York, the 25-year-old recorded 10 receptions for 113 yards and two touchdowns on 11 targets. However, Metchie III has been unable to maintain his hot start. Over his last five games played, Metchie III has failed to eclipse four catches or 41 receiving yards in a game, nor has he found the end zone. Metchie III's playing time has dropped off slightly as well, as he's played 77% or fewer of the Jets' offensive snaps in two out of the last three weeks. Especially with undrafted rookie quarterback Brady Cook in line to make his fourth straight start for the Jets in Week 18 against the Buffalo Bills, there's little reason to think Metchie III will reverse recent trends. He profiles as a wide receiver for fantasy managers to avoid in the final week of the 2025 regular season.