Who Should I Start? James Conner or Christian Kirk

Thursday, May 29, 1:04 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (knee) took part in voluntary organized team activities on Wednesday. "I'm ready," Conner said. "We ain't doing this forever." Conner injured his right knee in Week 16 of last year and had six touches before being pulled in Week 17. The Cardinals placed him on Injured Reserve for the Week 18 regular-season finale, but the 30-year-old veteran appears to be fine now and ready to go for the start of the 2025 season this fall. He racked up a career-high 1,518 scrimmage yards on 236 carries while catching 47 of 55 targets in 2024. It was the healthiest Conner had been in his career, so fantasy managers definitely should expect some more missed time given his age and physical running style. For now, he's still being considered a workhorse back in Arizona, but more injuries could give Trey Benson more of a role eventually.

Thursday, May 29, 1:09 PM

Houston Texas wide receiver Christian Kirk (collarbone) was seen participating in organized team activities on Wednesday, according to KPRC's Aaron Wilson. Kirk only ended up playing in eight games (seven starts) in his third and final season with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2024 due to a broken collarbone. The 28-year-old was traded to the Texans in March to help account for the loss of Stefon Diggs in free agency and Tank Dell (knee), who isn't expected to play at all in 2025. However, Houston also added rookie wideouts Jayden Higgins (second round) and Jaylin Noel (third round), and Nico Collins is the clear top target for quarterback C.J. Stroud. Kirk should be fully ready for the start of the 2025 season, and he could dominate slot reps. Kirk has a path to a rebound season with the Texans, but it won't be a slam dunk with the two rookies potentially eating into his targets.