Who Should I Start? Jalen Tolbert or Jaylin Noel

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.

Tuesday, July 22, 3:22 PM

Houston Texans rookie third-round wide receiver Jaylin Noel (hamstring) missed time during minicamp in the spring with a minor strained hamstring, but KPRC's Aaron Wilson reports that Noel has made a full recovery and is ready for training camp this week. The Texans also drafted another receiver in the second round in Jayden Higgins back in April. Nico Collins is the team's unquestioned WR1, while they also have Christian Kirk in the fold in 2025, so it might be difficult for Noel to see notable targets in his first year in the NFL. The 22-year-old stands at only 5-foot-10, but he makes up for his small size with excellent athleticism. The Iowa State product could work as both a slot receiver and on the outside for Houston, but in terms of his fantasy value, Noel will be much more attractive to those in dynasty/keeper formats this year.