Who Should I Start? Ainias Smith or Mason Tipton

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.

Sunday, August 17, 5:27 PM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Mason Tipton continues to impress in the preseason, recording six receptions for 100 yards in Sunday's 17-17 tie against the Jaguars, including a 45-yard reception downfield on a great ball from second-year quarterback Spencer Rattler. Tipton's speed also drew a 45-yard pass interference penalty, setting up a Saints field goal to start the third quarter. He has shown that his quickness could play a key role for New Orleans this season, as he also caught a 54-yard touchdown in the first preseason game against the Chargers off a pass from Tyler Shough. With veterans Brandin Cooks, Cedrick Wilson Jr., and Dante Pettis on the roster, it remains to be seen how significant Tipton's role will be behind solidified starters Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Still, he is a player to monitor if his usage expands in the regular season.