Who Should I Start? Tim Patrick or Luther Burden III

Tuesday, December 9, 2:02 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Tim Patrick had five receptions for 78 yards and a touchdown on six targets during Sunday's win over the division-rival Indianapolis Colts. Patrick posted season-best marks in catches and yards while scoring his third touchdown of the year. The 32-year-old wideout saw an uptick in snaps with Parker Washington (hip) out of the lineup, playing 65.6% of the offensive snaps, his second-highest mark of the season. Patrick was acquired by the Jaguars from the Detroit Lions before the start of the regular season, and while he hasn't played a massive role, he's earned at least four targets in three of the past four games. Patrick still profiles as more of a deep-league option, but that could change if he stacks another performance like this. He'll be worth considering as a deep-league flex play in Week 15 against the New York Jets if Washington misses another game.

Tuesday, January 27, 12:10 PM

Across 15 games in 2025, Chicago Bears wide receiver Luther Burden III recorded 47 receptions for 652 yards and two touchdowns on 60 targets. While the 22-year-old's full-season numbers may not jump off the page, he closed his rookie season on a strong note. Across his final seven games, including postseason play, Burden III hauled in 31 catches for 423 yards and a touchdown on 46 targets. In that same seven-game stretch, Burden III earned at least six targets in every game but one. Heading into 2026, Burden III could be poised to hit the ground running as one of the featured pieces in the Chicago passing game. It's worth noting that the Bears have other talented pass-catchers in wide receivers Rome Odunze and DJ Moore, as well as tight end Colston Loveland, who are also worthy target-earners. Still, Burden III's late-season breakout demonstrates his upside. He profiles as a wide receiver option on the rise for fantasy managers in both dynasty and redraft leagues.