Who Should I Start? Jalen Nailor or Calvin Austin III

Wednesday, June 11, 5:52 PM

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor has bulked up in the offseason, with SKOR North's Judd Zulgad saying, "When you see him physically, you won't recognize him." Zulgad points out that fellow wideout Jordan Addison is likely to be suspended for two to three games to start the 2025 season for an off-field incident in Los Angeles last July, and Nailor is motivated headed into a contract year. The 26-year-old took a big step forward in his third NFL season in Minnesota in 2024, going for a 28-414-6 line on 42 targets over 17 regular-season games (seven starts) after catching 12 passes in his first two seasons. Nailor could have an expanded role early on if Addison is suspended, but he'll also face more competition from rookie third-rounder Tai Felton and free-agent addition Rondale Moore. For now, he remains outside of RotoBaller's top-100 fantasy receivers.

Thursday, July 3, 7:17 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver coach Zach Azzanni noted during the team's minicamp that he believes wide receiver Calvin Austin III is poised to step into the offense's No. 2 pass-catching role. "I think that '2' spot is all Calvin's right now," said Azzanni. The Memphis alum put together his best statistical season in 2024 with a decent 36/548/4 line as the team's third-leading wideout. However, even with the departure of ex-teammate George Pickens vacating 103 targets, it won't be an easy path to fantasy relevance. Pickens was replaced by DK Metcalf, who will garner his fair share of looks, and Austin III will now have to contend with two viable options at tight end in Pat Freiermuth and the newly acquired Jonnu Smith. The 26-year-old offers the most juice on the team, but Pittsburgh's propensity to run and productive teammates will likely limit his fantasy value outside of best ball formats.