Who Should I Start? Ainias Smith or Darius Cooper

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.

Friday, November 21, 10:18 PM

Philadelphia Eagles rookie wide receiver Darius Cooper last week logged his lowest snap count since returning from injury, getting on the field for just three plays against the Detroit Lions. Now past the halfway mark of the season, it's seeming more and more likely that Cooper will not see any catches before the 2025 campaign has ended. Even when the receivers above him on the depth chart have been sidelined or had rough games, Cooper has not gotten his opportunities. He should continue to be left off of fantasy rosters as Philly faces the Cowboys this weekend.