Who Should I Start? Hunter Renfrow or Xavier Weaver

Friday, August 8, 7:05 PM

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (hamstring) is not expected to play in the team's preseason opener on Friday night against the Cleveland Browns, but he is hopeful to return for the second preseason game next week against the Houston Texans. Renfrow's hamstring injury isn't all that serious, but he hasn't practiced at training camp since late July, and the Panthers aren't going to push him into the first preseason game. The 29-year-old is pushing for a depth role in his first year in Carolina and probably won't be better than the WR4 in 2025 behind rookie first-rounder Tetairoa McMillan, Xavier Legette and veteran Adam Thielen. The Clemson product had a 1,000-yard receiving season in 2021 with the Raiders but was never able to recapture that magic and didn't play at all in 2024 due to health issues. Renfrow can be avoided in most fantasy leagues.

Friday, September 13, 10:09 PM

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Xavier Weaver (oblique) is officially questionable ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. The undrafted rookie wideout is still looking to make his NFL debut, and he has a chance to do so this week after logging three straight limited practice sessions. Weaver performed well in Arizona's preseason finale, reeling in 2-of-4 targets for 56 yards. He also handled two punt and kickoff returns for an additional 81 yards. The Colorado product projects to have difficulty finding consistent playing time in the starting WR rotation behind Marvin Harrison Jr, Michael Wilson, and Greg Dortch -- even when healthy. However, he is someone to monitor regarding his usage on kick returns. If Weaver can gain consistency there, he could be helpful for fantasy managers. Otherwise, he can be safely avoided sans deep dynasty leagues.