Who Should I Start? Jalen Nailor or Jayden Higgins

Wednesday, December 24, 3:20 PM

Due to a litany of injuries around him, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor is a lowly rated option when the Vikings play host to the Detroit Lions on Christmas Day. The Michigan State product has developed a solid chemistry with starter J.J. McCarthy (hand), but the latter will miss Thursday's game, giving way to undrafted rookie Max Brosmer. Detroit ranks a bottom-tier 31st against PPR receivers, though the Vikings are beaten up and on a short week. In addition to McCarthy, the Vikings will be without star left tackle Christian Darrisaw (knee), center Ryan Kelly (concussion), tight end T.J. Hockenson (shoulder), running back Jordan Mason (ankle), and could be without right tackle Brian O'Neill (heel) as well. Nailor's varied role in the offense is difficult to rely upon anyway, as the receiver has not caught a pass three times in the past five weeks, yet had one game with two touchdowns. Ranked as RotoBaller's No. 86 receiver this week, Nailor is avoidable in all formats.

Sunday, January 18, 10:09 PM

Houston Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins caught six of his 10 targets for 59 yards during Sunday's Divisional Round loss against the New England Patriots. Higgins took on a larger role with Nico Collins (concussion) sidelined, and it resulted in him leading the team in both catches and receiving yards. The Iowa State product put together a strong rookie campaign, catching 41 passes for 525 yards and six touchdowns through 17 regular-season games. He added another 14 catches and 98 yards in the playoffs. Heading into next year, Higgins will continue to face competition for targets from Nico Collins and Jaylin Noel. Christian Kirk is expected to depart in free agency, but Tank Dell (knee) should take his place on offense and will create additional competition. There are a lot of mouths to feed in Houston, but Higgins will have a chance to emerge as the No. 2 target behind Collins.