Who Should I Start? Terry McLaurin or Rome Odunze

Monday, June 30, 9:29 PM

ESPN's Adam Schefter said on The Pat McAfee Show on Monday that there is no update on contract talks between the Washington Commanders and wide receiver Terry McLaurin, "and that's the problem." "There is quite a gap between what both sides want right now and they have not made any progress," Schefter said. Schefter goes on to say that he'd be surprised if the Commanders look to move on from McLaurin via a trade, regardless of how disgruntled the wideout might be. McLaurin is entering the final season of a three-year extension he signed in 2022 and is looking for a hefty extension after posting his fifth straight 1,000-yard season with a career-high 13 touchdowns in 2024. He's reportedly seeking a deal that would pay him around $30 million a year, but the Commanders seem hesitant to give that to a receiver that will turn 30 this September. In fantasy, McLaurin is a solid WR2 target going into 2025.

Friday, June 6, 8:19 PM

Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze believes he's going to take a major step forward in his second professional season. Odunze had high expectations after being drafted as the No. 9 overall pick during last year's draft. He finished with 54 receptions, 734 yards, and three touchdowns across 17 games last season. To be fair, nothing seemed to go right for the Bears offense last season. They tried to get Odunze involved with over 100 targets, but the poor play of the offensive line made it difficult for them. Despite that, the Bears believe Odunze is a special player that can take a big leap this next season. Odunze said his goal is to get at least 1,000 receiving yards and double-digit touchdowns. The Bears have added talent on offense, so we'll see if that goal is achievable, but regardless fantasy managers should probably hold Odunze and see what happens.