DeVonta Smith vs Jaylen Waddle: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. DeVonta Smith finished the 2025 season at 9.6 PPG over 17 games with the Philadelphia Eagles, while Jaylen Waddle clocked in at 10.1 across 16 appearances for the Denver Broncos. A 0.5-point gap means any given week could go either way.
With a margin this thin, season averages are not the deciding factor. Weekly variables like opponent defense, game script, and injury status carry more weight than a fraction of a PPG. The right start in Week 6 might be the wrong start in Week 14.
Both are workload receivers with similar target shares. DeVonta Smith turned 113 targets into 1008 yards and 4 touchdowns, while Jaylen Waddle converted 100 looks into 910 yards and 6 scores. When target volume is this close, game script and defensive matchup typically decide the weekly winner.
One scheduling note: DeVonta Smith is off Week 5 and Jaylen Waddle Week 14. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in wide receiver for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
