Brian Thomas Jr. or Sam LaPorta: Who Should You Start?

The call

• The usage is the case: 78% snap share and a 20% target share across 14 games makes him the clear No. 1 read in this passing game, and target volume is the most stable input in PPR.
• The WR42 consensus rank and 10.1 projection put him at the low end of startable, but that number is priced off projection, not role — a 20% target share player rarely finishes as a true bench option.
• The DvP composite shows Cleveland at 10 of 32 (tougher half), but it's a 0-game sample with 0.00 confidence, so it shouldn't override the volume read.
• Main risk is game script: Jacksonville is a 7.5-point favorite with a 24.0 implied total, so a comfortable lead could pull pass attempts down in the fourth quarter.

The call

• 11.0 projected points and a TE6 consensus rank put LaPorta well above replacement at a thin position; that's a lineup lock in a 12-team PPR when he's active.
• Role is bulletproof: 91% snap share and a 17% target share over nine games make him the clear pass-game centerpiece at tight end.
• Detroit's 27.8 implied total as a 7-point favorite means volume and red-zone looks even if the game script tilts run-heavy late.
• The only real wrinkle is the questionable designation and a New Orleans DvP that sits 13 of 32 — but that matchup grade carries a 0-game sample and 0.00 confidence, so it shouldn't move the needle. Confirm his status pregame.