Who Should I Start? Troy Franklin or Luther Burden III

Saturday, September 27, 12:53 AM

Denver Broncos wide receiver Troy Franklin has certainly taken a step forward during his second pro season, but he still isn't a very reliable fantasy option heading into Week 4 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Franklin broke out with eight catches and a touchdown in Week 2, but in his two other games, he averaged just three catches, 26 yards, and zero touchdowns. Without consistent production, the Oregon product ranks as a low-end WR4 and is a bit too risky to insert into lineups. That's especially true this week against the Cincinnati Bengals. While Cincinnati is limping right now with Joe Burrow (toe) sidelined, they've been solid against the pass, whether it's due to good defensive play or Cincinnati's opponents routinely running the ball with a sizable lead. The Bengals have allowed the 13th-fewest receiving yards and fifth-fewest touchdowns to wide receivers in 2025. Franklin can be left on the bench in most leagues.

Saturday, September 27, 12:12 PM

Chicago Bears rookie wide receiver Luther Burden III flashed big-play ability in Week 3's blowout win over the Cowboys, catching all three of his targets for 101 yards and a touchdown. He also logged a season-high 31% snap share, showing growth in his role. Despite the breakout performance, Burden's overall usage still limits his fantasy relevance. Through three games, he has played just 25% of the snaps, well behind Rome Odunze (95%), D.J. Moore (88%), and Olamide Zaccheaus (48%). Burden gets another favorable matchup in Week 4 against a Raiders secondary that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to wide receivers this season. However, until his role becomes more consistent, Burden remains unstartable in fantasy this week.