Who Should I Start? Adonai Mitchell or Jalen Royals

Wednesday, September 24, 9:10 AM

The Indianapolis Colts coaching staff is putting faith in second-year wide receiver Adonai Mitchell. A 2024 second-round pick, Mitchell struggled as a rookie, catching just 23 of 55 targets for 312 yards and failing to score a touchdown. Offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter expressed confidence in his development, saying, "When AD's number is called, AD is going to be ready for action." Mitchell could see a bigger role this week with Alec Pierce in the concussion protocol. Last season, Pierce missed one game, during which Mitchell played 89% of the snaps (his second-highest total of the year) but managed only one target that went for 36 yards. If Pierce is sidelined, Mitchell would likely slide into the WR3 role and could become a factor in the Colts' passing attack. For fantasy purposes, Mitchell remains off the radar outside of deep leagues, but his situation is worth monitoring if Pierce misses significant time.

Sunday, September 21, 7:44 PM

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jalen Royals (knee) is officially active for Sunday's Week 3 contest against the New York Giants. The rookie had been listed as questionable but was trending in the right direction after logging a full practice on Friday. He'll make his pro debut on Sunday night after missing the first two games of the season. Royals could provide a boost to a wide receiver room that is currently without Rashee Rice (suspension) and Xavier Worthy (shoulder). However, the fourth-round pick will likely still find himself behind established receivers like Marquise Brown, Tyquan Thornton, and JuJu Smith-Schuster.