Who Should I Start? Ainias Smith or Beaux Collins

Tuesday, August 19, 9:35 AM

Second-year Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Ainias Smith has enjoyed a healthy training camp, and his coaches have taken notice. Last season, as a fifth-round rookie, he struggled through camp with a stress fracture in his shin that would eventually land him on Injured Reserve for two months. This year, he is healthy and competing for one of the Eagles' last receiver spots on the 53-man roster. He has played in each of the team's first two preseason games, catching a touchdown in both and returning punts and kicks, as his path to the roster may run through special teams. Smith has been competing with fellow second-year wideout Johnny Wilson and undrafted rookie Darius Cooper for one of the team's final roster spots, and on Sunday, the Eagles acquired former second-round pick John Metchie III from the Houston Texans. Whoever can win the camp battle will have little relevance in managed redraft leagues, but could be worth a stash in deep dynasty formats.

Wednesday, June 18, 2:37 PM

New York Giants wide receiver Beaux Collins worked with the first team offense on Tuesday following the departure of Jalin Hyatt (leg), who exited practice with an apparent leg injury. Star wideout Malik Nabers (toe) is sitting out minicamp with a toe injury. According to Giants reporter Art Stapleton, Collins caught a touchdown from Russell Wilson in 7-on-7 drills and is making an impact as an undrafted rookie free agent. Collins spent three seasons at Clemson before one year at Notre Dame, totalling 132 receptions for 1,780 yards and 14 touchdowns in 48 collegiate games. New York's wide receiver group behind Nabers leaves a lot to be desired, so there's a real path toward making the 53-man roster for Collins. He should be on the radar in deeper dynasty fantasy football setups.