Who Should I Start? Calvin Austin III or Jalen Cropper

Saturday, August 10, 12:54 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III managed two receptions for 49 yards on three targets in a preseason loss to the Houston Texans. All of Austin's opportunities came with Kyle Allen at quarterback. The pair nearly connected for a touchdown in the second quarter, but the ball was poorly thrown and Austin failed to haul it in. The 25-year-old wideout was much sharper in the second half, creating plenty of separation for deep completions of 24 and 25 yards. Although veteran Van Jefferson has reportedly had an excellent training camp, Austin could carve out a role for himself in a receiver room that is highly suspect outside of George Pickens. Austin will hope to stand out again in next Saturday's contest against the Buffalo Bills.

Sunday, August 11, 10:00 PM

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Cropper led the team in targets in a preseason loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Cropper saw six balls thrown his way, making four catches for 26 yards including a long of 12. The undrafted free agent spent last season on the Cowboys practice squad and would likely need several injuries ahead of him to have relevance in 2024, but it's worth keeping an eye on his usage going forward in preseason play.