Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or Van Jefferson

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, December 28, 5:19 PM

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Van Jefferson (forearm) has already been ruled out for Week 18 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to interim head coach Mike McCoy. His season is over. Jefferson picked up the injury during the second quarter of Sunday's loss to the New Orleans Saints. At the time of his departure, he led the team with three catches for 46 yards on three targets. After the game, McCoy was quick to rule out Jefferson for the last week of the season. While not a top fantasy threat, Jefferson had recently taken on a larger role after Calvin Ridley (leg) landed on injured reserve. Chimere Dike, Elic Ayomanor, and Mason Kinsey will operate as the Titans' top receivers against a Jaguars secondary that has been playing at a high level lately.