Who Should I Start? Jalen Tolbert or Calvin Austin III

Wednesday, May 7, 1:22 PM

With the addition of wide receiver George Pickens via trade on Wednesday, Dallas Cowboys pass-catcher Jalen Tolbert will now operate as the team's No. 3 wideout in 2025 behind CeeDee Lamb and Pickens. Tolbert could also face competition from KaVontae Turpin for the role, but the 26-year-old should have the leg up for the WR3 job after a career year in 2024 in which he set career-highs in catches (49), targets (79), receiving yards (610) and touchdowns (seven) in 17 games (15 starts). Even in what should be a pass-happy Cowboys offense with quarterback Dak Prescott returning from his hamstring injury, Tolbert just won't have enough volume to make him worthy starting on a weekly basis in most fantasy leagues. However, if one of Lamb or Pickens misses time with an injury, Tolbert will be an attractive waiver-wire pickup.

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.