Who Should I Start? Amari Cooper or Christian Watson

Thursday, September 4, 2:14 PM

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Amari Cooper has informed the team that he intends to retire ahead of Week 1, citing a lack of desire to continue playing. Cooper, who joined the Raiders this offseason in hopes of competing for a starting role, was listed behind rookie Dont'e Thornton Jr. on the initial depth chart. The five-time Pro Bowler spent last season with the Browns and Bills, starting 10 of 14 games while recording 44 catches for 547 yards and four touchdowns. Cooper leaves the NFL after a decorated career, finishing with over 10,000 receiving yards and 64 touchdowns across stops with the Raiders, Cowboys, Browns, and Bills. His departure opens additional opportunities for Thornton and fellow rookie Jack Bech to carve out meaningful roles in the Raiders' passing game this season.

Monday, September 15, 5:35 PM

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (knee) said he anticipates returning to practice when his window opens up, according to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic. Watson will be on the Physically Unable to Perform list through Week 4 after tearing his right ACL in the Week 18 regular-season finale last year. With Green Bay's bye coming in Week 5, he may be ready to make his 2025 debut in Week 6, when the team hosts the Cincinnati Bengals at Lambeau Field. The 26-year-old probably won't be ready by Week 6, but reports this summer suggested he was making excellent progress in his recovery. Fellow wideout Jayden Reed (collarbone) is currently out six to eight weeks, so Watson could have a substantial role in the passing attack sooner than later when he returns. Mostly a deep threat, fantasy managers should consider stashing him in an IR spot if he's available on the waiver wire.