Who Should I Start? Allen Lazard or Parker Washington

Monday, August 25, 1:18 PM

New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard (shoulder) is on track to be available for Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Sept. 7, according to head coach Aaron Glenn. Lazard suffered a shoulder injury in the team's preseason opener on Aug. 9 and didn't play in the final two games. The 29-year-old will probably be on the first official injury report next week, but a long as he doesn't have a setback, he could be out on the field for the season opener. Fantasy managers will be avoiding him if he's active, though, as Lazard is merely competing for a depth role behind WR1 Garrett Wilson in New York with Josh Reynolds and Tyler Johnson. Lazard rebounded somewhat in 2024 in his second year with the team, but he's mostly been a dissapointment for the Jets with 60 catches on 109 targets for 841 yards and seven touchdowns in 26 games (22 starts).

Thursday, August 7, 4:18 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars beat writer John Oehser writes that wide receiver Parker Washington's improvement and approach has been constant since the arrival of new head coach Liam Coen, and the offensive staff "continues to be impressed by Washington's versatility and production." "He can plug and play at different spots and go and execute a wide route tree," offensive coordinator Grant Udinski said. The 23-year-old is expected to be the team's No. 4 wideout this year alongside rookie Travis Hunter, Brian Thomas Jr. and Dyami Brown. Washington caught 32 passes for 390 yards and three touchdowns for the Jags a year ago and is showing that he can be reliable and productive in Coen's scheme. He's produced 48 catches on 72 targets for 522 yards and five touchdowns in 26 games (eight starts) in his two NFL seasons. Unless an injury opens up more playing time, Washington is one to avoid in 12-team leagues.