Who Should I Start? Christian Kirk or Chase Claypool

Wednesday, September 3, 7:51 PM

Houston Texans wide receiver Christian Kirk (hamstring) was listed as a non-participant for the team's first official practice of the year on Wednesday. It's unclear if Kirk's absence to begin the week was more maintenance related or if his hamstring injury will put him in jeopardy of suiting up for Week 1 on Sunday at the Los Angeles Rams. We should have a better idea on his availability for the season opener later this week, but this certainly isn't what fantasy managers want to see heading into Week 1 after the 28-year-old played in only eight games in 2024 in his final season in Jacksonville due to a broken collarbone. If Kirk's injury is nothing serious and he's active on Sunday, he should be considered more of a WR4/flex play in fantasy out of the slot against a dangerous Rams defense. If he's unable to play, rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel could immediately become interesting.

Saturday, July 5, 10:37 PM

Free-agent wide receiver Chase Claypool (toe) is hoping to sign with an NFL team. The 2020 No. 49 overall pick was spectacular as a rookie, amassing 62 catches for 873 yards and 11 touchdowns. Since then, he hasn't been as productive. finding the end zone only six times. After stops in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Miami, Claypool was in line to suit up for the Buffalo Bills heading into the 2024 campaign. Unfortunately, he tore a ligament and tendon in his toe before eventually being released by the team. With the injury behind Claypool, he is eager to get back on the field while claiming to be stronger and faster than ever. "I am back to being the strongest and fastest I've ever been and couldn't be more excited to step back out on the field and let my actions speak for themselves," said the 26-year-old. "I deeply and truly believe that the pieces will align, and I will work my way into the position to show off what's been suppressed these last two years." It appears he is more motivated than ever. Although Claypool should see attention from fantasy managers if he signs with a club, he could have a tough time getting close to the level of production he had in his inaugural year. Still, the wideout is worth monitoring in case he ends up inking a deal with a team where he'll have the opportunity to get involved.