Tank Dell or DeAndre Hopkins Week 9 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Fantasy Football Projections for WRs
The Houston Texans have had a fascinating history with the wide receiver position. For most of their early existence, their dominator at the position was Andre Johnson. After he left, DeAndre Hopkins filled that void.
Then after he left, the Texans were left to scramble for a replacement. In 2021, they drafted an unassuming Michigan Wolverine by the name of Nico Collins in the third round. By the end of last season, he was their potential future dominator after having career-highs.
The hype only intensified when Stefon Diggs joined via trade - but this month, it has all but dissipated thanks to devastating injuries. That leaves the team's hopes on sophomore slot man Tank Dell, who faces off against Hopkins in this fantasy battle. So, who wins?
Is Tank Dell a good fantasy pick in Week 9?
Thursday represents a major opportunity for Tank Dell, who is expected to bear most of the Texans' deep-ball responsibilities with their main two outside targets unavailable. However, fulfilling the expectations placed on him will be easier said than done.
The New York Jets boast one of the most talented defenses in all of football. Cornerback Sauce Gardner in particular is one of the best defensive backs in the league, capable of shutting down even the best wideouts. But he also has a capable supporting cast with him: fellow outside DJ Reed, slotmen Brandin Ecols and Michael Carter II, and safeties Tony Adams and Jalen Mills.
Is DeAndre Hopkins a good fantasy pick in Week 9?
From being a perennial star to a role player - this is what DeAndre Hopkins' career has devolved into.
When he first joined the Tennessee Titans in 2023, he was expected to return to his dominant ways. But even though he hit 1,000 yards for the first time since his last Pro Bowl in 2020, the team struggled.
And as the Titans continued to strugle in 2024, the front office decided that change was needed. Hopkins went to the Kansas City Chiefs, who needed another deep threat. He had a bit-part role in his debut, catching only 2 passes for 29 yards.
He should have an increased role against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have Antoine Winfield Jr. leading the secondary but are still missing top corner Jamel Dean.
Tank Dell or DeAndre Hopkins: Whom should I start?
Sportskeeda's Start/Sit Optimizer, interestingly enough, thinks Dell is the better option and expect him to overcome the Jets' defensive talents.
In case the deep game proves underwhelming, the Texans can just switch to the running game, which he can contribute to alongside Dameon Pierce and Joe Mixon, especially in trick plays. Offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik can then turn to tight ends Dalton Schultz and Cade Stover for catches - against whom Gardner and Co. might prove too weak to stop.