Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or Tez Johnson

Tuesday, October 28, 4:32 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Sterling Shepard has seen an increase in playing time as a result of injuries to Chris Godwin (leg) and Mike Evans (collarbone). Shepherd had his quietest game of the season in the Bucs' blowout 23-3 win over the New Orleans Saints in Week 8, catching just one of two targets for eight yards. The veteran wideout had caught multiple balls in every other game up until last week and saw a season high of seven targets in Week 7 against the Lions. Still, the upside isn't very high for the 32-year-old even in a good Tampa Bay offense, as he has provided little value after the catch. Rookies Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson have emerged as the go-to targets at wide receiver for Baker Mayfield, with tight end Cade Otton filling a complementary role. Fantasy managers who are in desperate need of a flex who will run a lot of routes can look to Shepherd as a possible option.

Tuesday, October 28, 2:30 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Tez Johnson has strung together four straight games of at least 6.8 fantasy points in half-PPR formats. His early success came on the back of big plays, but he's now seen at least six targets in back-to-back games. While the Buccaneers' passing attack has struggled as a whole over the past two weeks, Johnson has managed a respectable nine catches for 101 yards and a score over that time. With the Buccaneers on a Week 9 bye and Chris Godwin nearing a return, there's a chance Johnson could be dropped this week, making him an intriguing add for those with the luxury of not needing an immediate plug-and-play starter. Brighter days should be ahead for the Buccaneers' passing attack, and Johnson looks as if he will be a major part of it.