A.J. Brown vs DeVonta Smith: Who Should You Start?
If you are choosing between A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith for your lineup, you are not alone. A.J. Brown finished the 2025 season at 12.1 PPG for the Philadelphia Eagles (15 games), and DeVonta Smith averaged 9.6 for the Philadelphia Eagles (17 games).
That 2.5-point weekly advantage for A.J. Brown is meaningful but not automatic. Fantasy football is a week-to-week sport, and the answer to "who should I start" often changes based on opponent, recent form, and game environment. Season averages set the baseline; weekly context makes the call.
Both are workload receivers with similar target shares. A.J. Brown turned 121 targets into 1003 yards and 7 touchdowns, while DeVonta Smith converted 113 looks into 1008 yards and 4 scores. When target volume is this close, game script and defensive matchup typically decide the weekly winner.
Both share a Week 5 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking wide receivers this deep on your bench, plan your replacement wide receiver early.
