Who Should I Start? Calvin Austin III or Bucky Irving

Tuesday, October 21, 12:45 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III (shoulder), who has missed the last two games with a shoulder injury, is scheduled to work back into practice this week, according to head coach Mike Tomlin. The head coach said he's "optimistic" for Austin potentially returning on Sunday night to face the Green Bay Packers in Week 8, but as always, his participation in practice will be the guide for whether he plays on Sunday. The 26-year-old wideout might need a full practice at some point this week to be cleared to play this weekend. If he does make his return, he should slot back in as Pittsburgh's WR2 behind DK Metcalf. In his four games this year before his shoulder injury, Austin had 10 catches on 17 targets for 139 yards and two touchdowns. With six teams on bye in Week 8, Austin would be in play as at least a WR4/flex in fantasy football if he's able to make his return against the Packers.

Wednesday, October 22, 1:04 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said on Wednesday that running back Bucky Irving (foot, shoulder) will not make it back for Sunday's divisional contest against the New Orleans Saints in Week 8, according to Greg Auman of FOX Sports. Irving will be missing his fourth straight game due to a foot sprain and a subluxation of his shoulder. However, with Tampa's bye coming in Week 9, perhaps he'll be ready to make his return in Week 10 when the team takes on the New England Patriots on Nov. 9. With the 23-year-old set to miss yet another game, Rachaad White will be in play as an RB2 in all fantasy formats while making his fourth straight start as the lead back for the Buccaneers, with Sean Tucker handling backup duties again.