Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or Xavier Gipson

Sunday, February 22, 10:27 AM

Across 13 games in 2025, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Sterling Shepard recorded 39 receptions for 371 yards and one touchdown on 53 targets. With veteran Buccaneers wideouts Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr. sidelined for a significant portion of the year by injury, Shepard saw increased opportunity for playing time, particularly early in the season. However, he was largely unable to hold off Bucs rookie wide receivers Emeka Egbuka and Tez Johnson, and the late-season return of second-year wideout Jalen McMillan pushed Shepard even further down the depth chart. Shepard is now set for unrestricted free agency, and a change of scenery away from the crowded wide receiver room in Tampa Bay could help his fantasy outlook. Still, Shepard is entering his age-33 season and has not recorded 40 receptions in a season since 2020. Regardless of where he ends up in 2026, Shepard's fantasy-relevant days may be behind him.

Thursday, September 11, 4:23 PM

The New York Giants have claimed wide receiver Xavier Gipson off waivers from the New York Jets, per NFL.com's Ian Rapoport. Gipson was released by the Jets after his costly special teams fumble played a big role in the team's Week 1 loss. With the Giants, Gipson should have a chance to battle wide receiver Gunner Olszewski for a role as a reserve slot receiver and primary special teamer. In 35 career NFL games, Gipson has recorded 27 receptions for 268 yards and one touchdown. He should remain off the radar of fantasy managers.