Who Should I Start? Calvin Austin III or Jayden Higgins

Tuesday, August 12, 3:16 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III (abdomen) has been dealing with a minor abdominal muscle issue, sources told Alan Saunders of PGH Steelers Now. According to Austin's agent, it is the only reason that he has not been practicing with the team at training camp. Austin has missed practice for several days and didn't play in last week's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Head coach Mike Tomlin said he expects Austin to return to practice soon, and his injury isn't expected to impact his readiness for Week 1 of the regular season. He's entering the final year of his current deal, but his agent, Rodney Williams, confirmed that his client isn't holding out. If healthy, the 26-year-old is the favorite for WR2 duties in Pittsburgh in 2025 behind DK Metcalf, although that role isn't expected to yield much volume for what should be a run-first offense.

Tuesday, August 5, 12:52 PM

The Houston Texans released their first unofficial depth chart of the preseason on Tuesday, and rookie wide receiver Jayden Higgins was listed as a starter next to Nico Collins and Christian Kirk. As we always say, take unofficial depth charts with a grain of sand in the preseason. It's a good sign for the 22-year-old second-rounder, but it hardly guarantees him a big role right away in his first NFL season in Houston. The Iowa State product was productive in college and showed plenty of athleticism at the scouting combine in February. The problem is that Collins should continue to be a target hog through the air in an offense with a shaky offensive line. It's possible that Higgins could continue ascending and leapfrog Kirk for WR2 duties, but that will likely take time. Consider Higgins a decent late-round dart throw for receiver depth in fantasy drafts.