Who Should I Start? Calvin Austin III or Tory Horton

Friday, September 5, 7:17 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III is off the injury report and ready to go for a Week 1 bout with the New York Jets. Austin, who missed the entire preseason with an abdominal injury, is listed as Pittsburgh's WR2 on the depth chart and should earn some opportunities in an offense that lacks proven commodities at the position outside of DK Metcalf. Austin was efficient with his targets in 2024 and should get improved QB play with Aaron Rodgers under center, but it's a stretch to consider him a fantasy option, especially in this matchup. The Jets were stout against opposing receivers last season, and this contest is expected to be a low-scoring affair. Austin's utilization will be worth keeping an eye on, but the 26-year-old is just a dynasty or deep-league bench stash for the time being.

Friday, September 5, 2:15 PM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tory Horton is not on the fantasy radar in Week 1 when Seattle hosts the San Francisco 49ers. However, Horton's usage is one to watch as the 2025 fifth-round pick won the Seahawks' No. 3 wide receiver job this offseason. It may be difficult for a run-heavy team to support fantasy relevance from three wide receivers, but if Horton is constantly on the field and running routes, that would suggest he has a chance to take on a huge role as the season progresses. If you have an extra roster spot due to a player being on IR, Horton is a worthy stash from waivers. If the Seahawks take a top-heavy approach at wide receiver with Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp, then Horton can likely be dropped. If the split is more even, Horton is a solid hold throughout the season.