Who Should I Start? Terry McLaurin or Michael Pittman Jr.

Sunday, December 14, 9:12 AM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin will look to bounce back following last week's underwhelming fantasy performance against the Minnesota Vikings. He's trending in the right direction with a more favorable matchup in Week 15 against the New York Giants. The Giants have allowed the fourth-most receiving yards and fifth-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers in 2025. McLaurin has played in just six games this season, averaging 3.8 catches, 56.7 yards, and 0.3 touchdowns per contest. He'll be dealing with a change in quarterback this week as Marcus Mariota starts in place of Jayden Daniels (elbow), but that shouldn't have a significant effect on his fantasy value. McLaurin's best fantasy performance of the year came in Week 13 with Mariota under center, when the 30-year-old pass catcher had seven catches, 96 yards, and a touchdown in the Commanders' upset win over the Broncos. With a favorable matchup on tap, McLaurin should be viewed as a high-end WR2 in most leagues.

Friday, December 12, 11:00 PM

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. had a down year in 2024. However, he's turned it around this season. In 13 appearances, the 28-year-old has 69 catches (94 targets) for 699 yards. While he could have a tough time surpassing his mark from the 2023 campaign (109 receptions), he has already amassed a career-high seven touchdowns. Unfortunately, the Colts have struggled of late, with the team losing their last three contests. To make matters worse, Daniel Jones went down with a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. As a result, Indy will turn to Philip Rivers or Riley Leonard (knee), who no longer carries an injury designation, in Sunday's meeting with the Seahawks. As expected, many feel that neither player will do enough to get Indianapolis back to the top of the AFC South. With that in mind, Pittman's fantasy ceiling might be at its lowest point of the season, especially with a challenging contest on tap. Although he's still a must-start in any setup, considering he's been a top fantasy wideout, managers should expect the worst and hope for the best in Week 15.