Who Should I Start? Van Jefferson or Devaughn Vele

Saturday, November 22, 12:33 PM

Through 10 games this season, Tennessee Titans wide receiver Van Jefferson has recorded 17 catches for 189 yards and a touchdown on 33 targets. While those numbers don't jump off the page, Jefferson has seen an expanded role in his team's offense in recent weeks, earning 19 targets over his last three games played. The 29-year-old also played a season-high 92% of Tennessee's offensive snaps in Week 11 against the Houston Texans. With Titans wideouts Calvin Ridley (leg) and Elic Ayomanor (hamstring) both out, Jefferson could continue to see targets and playing time in Week 12 against the Seattle Seahawks. However, Seattle is a tough matchup for opposing passing games. Through 11 weeks, Seattle is allowing the third-fewest yards per pass attempt (6.2) in the NFL. Expected playing time alone may not be enough to carry Jefferson's fantasy production against the Seahawks. He profiles as a desperation flex option for deep-league fantasy managers in Week 12.

Thursday, December 11, 11:15 AM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Devaughn Vele should continue to see heavy utilization in the team's pass attack when they take on the visiting Carolina Panthers in Week 15. The second-year pro has materialized as a decent second option in New Orleans since ex-teammate Rashid Shaheed was moved to Seattle. In fact, Vele has been the Saints' leading receiver through the last two games, out-producing Chris Olave and matching his snap total in both contests. While that isn't the most likely outcome moving forward, there's no doubt that the 27-year-old has built a solid rapport with rookie QB Tyler Shough, and he should continue to operate as the second or third option at worst in a Saints' offense desperate for playmakers. Vele is a better asset in PPR leagues.