Dont'e Thornton Jr.
Wide Receiver
Dont'e Thornton Jr. News
Is Dont'e Thornton Jr. Still Worth Rostering in Dynasty Formats?
A fourth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. struggled to establish himself as a rookie. Across 15 games (eight starts), the 23-year-old recorded just 10 catches for 135 yards and zero touchdowns on 30 targets. However, Thornton Jr. should have a significantly improved offensive ecosystem around him in Las Vegas in 2026. The Raiders hired former Seattle Seahawks play-caller Klint Kubiak as their new head coach and are also widely expected to select University of Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the number one overall pick in the upcoming draft. Additionally, the Las Vegas wide receiver depth chart currently looks like an open competition for playing time between incumbents Thornton Jr., Jack Bech, and Tre Tucker, as well as free agent additions Jalen Nailor and Dareke Young. Thornton Jr. did not show much reason for optimism as a rookie, so fantasy managers should proceed with caution. However, he also stands out as a buy-low candidate who could likely be acquired on the cheap after his underwhelming 2025 campaign.
Mar 29, 2026 8:41 AM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Expected to Get a Quarterback Upgrade
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. had an underwhelming rookie season, catching just 10 of his 30 targets for 135 yards through 15 games. There was plenty of preseason hype about the Tennessee product, so it was frustrating to see that he never really produced at a significant level. Part of the blame falls on Thornton himself, but we can also attribute some of it to the poor state of the Raiders' offense. Quarterback Geno Smith struggled during his first year with the team, amassing 17 interceptions and just 19 touchdowns. All signs point to Vegas drafting college football standout Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, which would put the offense in a better state and potentially lead to more upside for Thornton. He could also pick up some additional targets with veteran Tyler Lockett headed for free agency. The 23-year-old is a very intriguing buy-low candidate in dynasty leagues after his quiet season. Dynasty managers may have already grown impatient with Thornton, meaning that he could be acquired at minimal cost.
Feb 16, 2026 5:56 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Sees Uptick in Playing Time in Week 17
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. has had a quiet rookie season, recording 10 catches (29 targets) for 135 yards and zero touchdowns in 14 games. Thornton earned steady playing time out of the gate -- 61.8% of the snaps over the first five weeks -- and drew at least two targets in each game. Known for his speed and big-play ability as a prospect, he showcased his explosiveness for the Raiders in the first three games of his career, hauling in five of his 12 targets for 94 yards. The Tennessee product posted a 25% explosive-catch rate, tied for the highest in the league among receivers with at least 12 targets during that span. The rookie fourth-rounder's snaps eventually faded, beginning in Week 11, where he played on only 38.3% of snaps and gradually declined every week until bottoming out to 7.4% in Week 16. However, in Week 17, with the Raiders competing for the No. 1 overall pick, Thornton's snaps spiked to 78%. He recorded just two catches (four targets) for 12 yards, but he had his most receptions and targets in a game since Week 3. Looking to 2026, Thornton profiles as a big-play threat who is unlikely to be a consistent producer week to week.
Dec 31, 2025 12:25 AM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. is Ready to Go for Week 15
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (concussion) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's Week 15 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Thornton was limited in practice to begin the week, but has been cleared to suit up after two straight full practice sessions. He's back in the mix after sitting out due to a concussion during last week's loss to the Denver Broncos. When healthy, Thornton is unlikely to be a significant contributor in what has been a bad Raiders offense. The 23-year-old has only eight receptions for 123 yards in 11 games this season. Fantasy managers should look elsewhere for help ahead of Vegas' tough road matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.
Dec 12, 2025 9:24 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Logs a Full Practice Session on Thursday
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (concussion) upgraded to a full participant in practice on Thursday. He had previously opened the week in a limited capacity. It appears that Thornton is trending in the right direction to clear concussion protocol and play in Sunday's Week 15 contest against the Philadelphia Eagles. The 23-year-old has been underwhelming in his first NFL season, even after teammate Jakobi Meyers was traded away. He ranks as the overall WR138 in PPR leagues with 25 targets, eight catches, and 123 yards so far this year. Even if he's confirmed as active on Sunday, Thornton can be avoided in all fantasy leagues.
Dec 11, 2025 10:30 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Won't Play Against Broncos
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (concussion) did not practice all week and has officially been ruled out for the Week 14 contest this Sunday against the division-rival Denver Broncos, according to Ryan McFadden of ESPN. Thornton will miss at least one game with the concussion that he suffered in last Sunday's loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. The fourth-round pick out of Tennessee has had a forgettable first year in the league with eight catches on 25 targets (28% success rate) for 123 yards and no touchdowns in 11 games (seven starts). In his defense, the Raiders' offense has stalled more often than not, limiting his opportunities in a depth role. Thornton hasn't had more than one catch in a game this year since Sept. 21 against the Commanders. With Thornton out this weekend, it will give fellow rookie Jack Bech a chance for more playing time, although we aren't expecting much from him against the Broncos' stout defense.
Dec 5, 2025 8:30 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Ruled Out With Concussion on Sunday
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. (concussion) has been ruled out for the rest of Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers. Thornton was forced to make an exit in the fourth quarter due to a head injury. The Raiders have ruled out Thornton for the rest of the game due to a possible concussion. Before exiting, Thornton hauled in one of his two targets for 11 yards. His absence should mean more snaps for Jack Bech and Alex Bachman down the final stretch of this game.
Nov 30, 2025 7:13 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Offers Big-Play Upside Against Cowboys
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. is trying to take advantage of expanded opportunities in Week 11. Thornton only caught one pass for four yards in their Week 11 loss to the Denver Broncos, but played 60% of the snaps, which ranked second on the team. With the Dallas Cowboys on the slate in Week 11, Thornton could offer big-play upside in deeper leagues and DFS formats. The Cowboys have allowed the most half-PPR fantasy points to wide receivers this season, so this could be a big week for the rookie receiver. In what should be a high-scoring affair in Week 11, look for Thornton to make an impact in Week 11.
Nov 15, 2025 4:29 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Not a Fantasy Option in Week 10
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. did not play a snap in Week 9's loss to Jacksonville. After showing promise early in the season, he hasn't logged a catch since Week 3. With Jakobi Meyers now traded to the Jaguars, Thornton could see his role expand. In the one game Meyers missed this season, Thornton played a season-high 83% of the snaps. However, the recent addition of Tyler Lockett may cap his overall opportunity. With Denver allowing the fewest fantasy points to opposing wide receivers, expectations should remain low. Thornton may see the field more in Week 10, but he should stay off fantasy rosters for now.
Nov 6, 2025 10:23 AM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. to be Active for Week 10
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. will be active for Thursday's game against the Denver Broncos, according to head coach Pete Carroll. Thornton was a healthy scratch in Week 9, but is returning to the rotation with Jakobi Meyers being traded on Tuesday. The rookie wideout hasn't recorded a catch since Week 3, so Thornton hasn't made much of an impact lately. It's tough to imagine there being streaming appeal here for this Week 10 contest. Thornton could be worth stashing in dynasty formats or certain deep leagues, but can't be trusted right now.
Nov 5, 2025 9:07 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Could Benefit from Potential Personnel Changes in Las Vegas?
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. has largely been phased out of the team's offense in recent weeks. Thornton Jr. has recorded five catches for 94 yards on 19 targets across seven games this season. However, he has been held without a reception in each of his last four games played. For the time being, Thornton Jr. appears to be firmly behind Jakobi Meyers, Tre Tucker, and Jack Bech on the wide receiver depth chart in Las Vegas. That could change in the coming weeks, as Meyers has reportedly been seeking a trade away from the 2-5 Raiders. With Meyers (knee, toe) inactive in Week 7 due to injury, Thornton Jr. played a season-high 86% of the team's offensive snaps. Even if Meyers is traded, Thornton Jr. will be tough for fantasy managers to trust given his lack of production so far. Still, he's a name to monitor in deeper leagues if the Raiders deal Meyers at some point before the NFL trade deadline.
Oct 21, 2025 9:11 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Losing Ground in Raiders' Offense
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. has yet to establish a consistent role in the team's offense, and his opportunities continue to dwindle as the Raiders shift toward heavier two-tight-end formations. In Week 4 against the Bears, Thornton saw just two targets and failed to record a catch, marking another quiet outing for the rookie. With Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker entrenched as the primary receivers and fellow rookie Jack Bech beginning to see occasional involvement, Thornton has fallen further down the depth chart. Until his target share increases or his role expands, fantasy managers can safely move on from Thornton in all formats. He remains a developmental stash at best, with little short-term fantasy appeal.
Oct 4, 2025 6:47 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Unlikely to Have Major Role in Week 5 Against Colts
Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. remains an unappealing fantasy option heading into Week 5 against the Indianapolis Colts. The rookie has seen his snap share hover around 60 percent in three of four games this season, which usually doesn't quite translate to a level of volume that is productive for fantasy football. Indeed, he is the overall WR96 in PPR leagues with 14 targets, five catches, and 94 yards. He's third on the depth chart but is a significant step down from both Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker. Thornton has immense fantasy appeal, and we wouldn't be surprised to see him come on strong this year if his snap share jumps to at least 75 percent. For now, though, he should be benched or dropped in redraft leagues, even against a Colts team allowing the third-most fantasy points to wide receivers.
Oct 4, 2025 9:39 AM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Trending Toward Drop Territory
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. continues to disappoint fantasy managers, seeing his snap share dip to a season-low 59% in Week 4 as fellow rookie Jack Bech earned more playing time. While Thornton still drew four targets, he managed just two catches for 29 yards, extending his streak of underwhelming stat lines. Once viewed as a sleeper with breakout potential, Thornton's limited role and lack of consistent production make him expendable in most fantasy leagues. Managers in need of roster flexibility should feel comfortable dropping Thornton in favor of a waiver-wire option with a stronger target share and clearer path to relevance.
Sep 26, 2025 2:35 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Flashing Stash Appeal in Raiders' Offense
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. was quiet in the team's Week 1 win over New England, logging just two catches on four targets for 45 yards while playing 60% of the snaps. Encouragingly, he drew more targets than Tre Tucker despite fewer snaps, and the Raiders leaned on the passing game as Geno Smith threw for 362 yards. With Chip Kelly determined to stretch the field, Thornton's speed keeps him in play as a stash with big-play potential. The Week 2 matchup adds intrigue, as the Chargers just allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers in Week 1, giving Thornton an outside chance to make noise if he sees increased usage. Until his role grows, he's best kept on benches, but the upside is worth monitoring.
Sep 12, 2025 1:50 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Worth a Stash Despite Run-Heavy Scheme
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. enters Week 1 as one of the more intriguing sleepers of the 2025 draft class. The 6'5" playmaker earned a starting role ahead of Amari Cooper's retirement and will face a Patriots secondary that could be without cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Thornton's size and downfield ability have made him a favorite target for quarterback Geno Smith throughout camp, flashing legitimate big-play upside. While his early-season role carries promise, the Raiders are still expected to lean on their running game, limiting his immediate fantasy ceiling. Thornton should be stashed on benches with the potential to develop into a key contributor.
Sep 5, 2025 7:21 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Listed as Starter on First Depth Chart
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. is listed as a starter on the team's unofficial depth chart heading into a Week 1 matchup against the New England Patriots this Sunday. Meanwhile, Amari Cooper is listed on the second string after signing with the team late in training camp. Cooper could eventually become a bigger part of Vegas' offense, but going into the season opener, Thornton figures to have a big role in the passing attack. He should start in three-wide sets alongside Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker. The 22-year-old fourth-rounder has emerged ahead of fellow rookie Jack Bech after a strong training camp and preseason, but it remains to be seen exactly how much he'll be targeted by quarterback Geno Smith out of the gates. But Thornton's output alone this summer makes him deserving of a roster spot for receiver depth in deeper fantasy formats.
Sep 2, 2025 7:18 PM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Loses Standing with Addition of Veteran
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr.'s role in the team's offense is unclear with the addition of veteran wide receiver Amari Cooper to the fold. The University of Tennessee product has speed for days and garnered hype this Summer as the Raiders' legitimate WR2 alongside incumbent starter Jakobi Meyers. However, Cooper returning to the team that selected him fourth overall in the 2015 NFL Draft is unideal for the prospect. Currently, Thornton Jr. sits fourth on Las Vegas' unofficial depth chart, behind Cooper, Meyers, and third-year pass-catcher Tre Tucker, who has flashed as well. The possibility remains that Thornton Jr. will eventually work into the starting offense. For now, though, fantasy managers can't expect more than the occasional spike week. He carries more value in best ball and dynasty formats.
Aug 30, 2025 11:17 AM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Records Touchdown in Preseason Finale
Las Vegas Raiders rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. recorded two catches for 26 yards and a touchdown in his team's final preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. The fourth-rounder out of Tennessee finishes the preseason with three catches on eight targets for 43 yards and a score. Thornton Jr.'s touchdown grab against Arizona came from starting quarterback Geno Smith on the team's first offensive possession. Thornton Jr. is listed as a starter on the team's depth chart, and he has a chance to emerge as the team's WR2 behind veteran Jakobi Meyers. He could be a solid value as a late-round dart-throw for fantasy managers, particularly in deeper leagues.
Aug 24, 2025 11:17 AM EST
Dont'e Thornton Jr. Listed as Starter on First Depth Chart
On the Las Vegas Raiders' first unofficial depth chart of the preseason, they've listed rookie wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. as a starter opposite Jakobi Meyers. Thornton has impressed all season leading into his first year in the NFL and continues to get reps with the first-team offense during training camp. With the Raiders expected to play their starters in their preseason opener this Thursday against the Seattle Seahawks, we should see the 22-year-old get some run with quarterback Geno Smith for a series or two. So far, Thornton has been more impressive than Jack Bech, and he could operate as Smith's top deep threat down the field in 2025. Thornton averaged an impressive 25.4 yards per catch in his final season at Tennessee and could be worth a late-round flier in deep fantasy leagues. RotoBaller has him ranked as the WR78.
Aug 6, 2025 12:06 PM EST
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