RADIO
The Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver room will look a little different in 2024. After spending just one season with the Jaguars, Calvin Ridley was traded to the Tennessee Titans this offseason. Jacksonville drafted Brian Thomas Jr. with the 23rd overall draft pick to replace him.
That leaves Thomas and seventh-year wideout Christian Kirk as the top two receiving options for star quarterback Trevor Lawrence heading into the 2024 season.
So, is Kirk or Thomas the fantasy football WR1 for the Jaguars? Let's dive in and find out.
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Who Is The Jaguars WR1?
While Thomas brings a fresh dynamic with his size and athleticism, Kirk's established chemistry with quarterback Trevor Lawrence and experience in the Jaguars system makes him the more reliable option to take over as the primary target.
In 2022, the season before Ridley's arrival, Kirk recorded 84 receptions for 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns and was Lawrence's clear No. 1 receiving option. Kirk's ability to excel in both the slot and outside positions should allow him to transition into the WR1 role seamlessly.
However, all eyes have been on Thomas throughout training camp as the rookie makes highlight plays every day, and excitement is brewing about the potential upside the rookie brings. Expect Kirk to begin the season as the WR1, but don't be shocked if Thomas makes a run for that role as the season goes on.
Brian Thomas Jr. is SOO MUCH MORE than just deep threat. He has shown off his underappreciated route running all training camp and preseason. He isn’t just a fast guy who can get open. His ability to know WHEN HE IS OPEN is special. You got one Jags fans.
pic.twitter.com/KBiKWrG36m— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) August 24, 2024
Who Should I Draft in Fantasy Football?
Kirk is listed as the WR32, while Thomas is taken as the WR45. Kirk brings much more stability to your roster as he enters the WR1 role once again. Fantasy managers can rely on him to produce each week.
Between Thomas and Kirk, Kirk is the safer and more valuable option to draft in fantasy football. Kirk has proven himself as a reliable target in Jacksonville's offense and should see an increase in targets with Ridley gone.
Christian Kirk is good pic.twitter.com/WLrBZJBV7g
— Demetrius Harvey (@Demetrius82) August 8, 2024
Kirk is a more established player with a strong connection to Trevor Lawrence, making him a solid pick, especially in PPR leagues.
Thomas offers potential upside as a rookie, but he may take some time to adjust to the NFL, and his role is less specific. Kirk is the better choice if you're looking for a steady contributor. Thomas is more of a late-round flyer with boom-or-bust potential, but a player who fantasy managers should want a piece of.
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