What to do with DeVante Parker, Preston Williams in Week 5 fantasy football

Until further notice, Ryan Fitzpatrick remains at the helm of the Miami Dolphins offense. Head coach Brian Flores initially hesitated to name a starting quarterback in the direct aftermath of Week 4’s 31-23 loss to the Seattle Seahawks but confirmed that the fantastically bearded Fitzpatrick would get the nod for Sunday’s tilt with the San Francisco 49ers.

While those pulling for Tua Tagovailoa — the No. 5 overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft — will have to wait at least another week to see him start under center, the decision to stick with the veteran Fitzpatrick makes projecting the Dolphins’ top wideouts for Week 5 a little more straightforward.

Fantasy Football analysis: Dolphins WRs DeVante Parker, Preston Williams

While the 49ers defense largely stymied opposing wide receivers during their Super Bowl run a season ago, the unit has proven to be less stingy in 2020. Opposing offenses average 20 targets to wideouts for approximately 14 receptions, 148 yards, and roughly half a touchdown. The absence of Richard Sherman (calf injury, currently on IR) continues to open up opportunities in the passing game.

Accordingly, DeVante Parker looks like a decent starting option, assuming he suits up this week. The sixth-year wideout only participated in practice on a limited basis on Wednesday due to an ankle injury. However, Parker managed to fully practice Thursday and, barring a setback, should play on Sunday.

While Parker has produced reasonably well during the first four weeks of the season, Preston Williams has seen his target share dry up over the same span. The second-year wideout received only five targets over the past two games, the same amount he saw in all of Week 2. Williams might experience a bump in workload due to the opponent, but he remains a touchdown-dependant receiver until he proves otherwise.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Parker should start in season-long leagues and warrants consideration for DFS.

Williams looks like an emergency flex option at best and should probably spend the week on your bench.