Who Should I Start? Younghoe Koo or Evan McPherson

Saturday, September 6, 12:29 AM

Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo had a rough 2024, converting just 73.5 percent of his field goal attempts last season before missing the final three games with a hip injury. However, the 31-year-old comes into 2025 healthy and made four of five field goals in the preseason, with his only miss coming from 51 yards out. With the Falcons having an implied total of 23 in their Week 1 contest against the Buccaneers, there is expected to be a decent amount of scoring. The fact that the game is a home matchup inside the dome in Atlanta means Koo will not have to deal with the elements, providing him with a pristine kicking environment. The eighth-year pro ranks as a low-end, top 12 option for Sunday's matchup, although his upside is limited given this will only be Michael Penix Jr.'s fourth start of his career, so drives may stall quickly.

Saturday, September 6, 2:31 PM

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson appeared to be on his way to becoming one of the league's best at the position. However, McPherson's production has gone in the wrong direction since his rookie year, and he finished the 2024 campaign by making only 72.7% of his attempts, a career-low. He was also limited to 12 games due to injury. The Bengals offense can move down the field quickly, which should give the 26-year-old chances to produce for fantasy managers. Still, until McPherson proves he can be trusted to capitalize on his opportunities, managers may want to consider other kickers for the Week 1 AFC North clash with the Browns.