Who Should I Start? Cedric Tillman or Jonathan Mingo

Thursday, May 9, 2:13 PM

The Athletic's Zac Jackson writes that the Cleveland Browns believe wide receiver Cedric Tillman can make a second-year leap in 2024. Amari Cooper, Jerry Jeudy and Elijah Moore figure to start in most three-receiver sets this year, but Tillman should have an opportunity for a bigger role as the No. 4 as the season progresses. The 24-year-old third-round pick last year out of Tennessee caught 21 of his 44 targets for 224 yards and no touchdowns in 14 games (three starts) in 2023 in his rookie season. Behind Tillman, David Bell, rookie Jamari Thrash, James Proche II, Jaelon Darden and Michael Woods II will have to battle for playing time in training camp this summer. Tillman won't be worth drafting in standard-sized leagues this fall, but he could become intriguing as a waiver-wire pickup if one of the three starters goes down with injury at any point.

Tuesday, January 2, 7:16 PM

The Carolina Panthers placed rookie wide receiver Jonathan Mingo (foot) on Injured Reserve on Tuesday with a foot injury and signed veteran running back Mike Boone to their practice squad in a corresponding move. Mingo will now miss the final game of his rookie season in Week 18 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 22-year-old second-rounder predictably had an inconsistent first year in the NFL while working with struggling first-round quarterback Bryce Young. In 15 games played, Mingo caught 43 of his 85 targets for 418 yards and no touchdowns. Mingo and Young will continue to work on their chemistry this offseason in hopes of connecting more often in 2024. With Mingo sidelined this weekend, Terrance Marshall Jr. should be active, while Ihmir Smith-Marsette and Mike Strachan should have bigger roles behind Adam Thielen and DJ Chark Jr.