Who Should I Start? Jaxon Smith-Njigba or Rashee Rice

Saturday, August 16, 10:46 AM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba caught one pass for seven yards in Friday's preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The Seahawks' starting offense got its first run of the preseason on the team's opening drive. Smith-Njigba was lined up all over the field and caught his lone pass out of the backfield. It appears that offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak's play-calling will be more creative than what the Seahawks had in 2024. With Smith-Njigba now entrenched as Seattle's No. 1 wide receiver, it was encouraging to see him moved around the field to create preferred matchups and manufacture touches. While JSN's time on the field on Friday was short, fantasy managers can come away from this game with more confidence to draft him.

Friday, August 15, 10:23 PM

According to NFL Media's Tom Pelissero, the NFL proposed a double-digit suspension for Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice. Of course, this proposal received some push back, with Rice's agents and attorney arguing against it. The NFLPA also isn't in favor of the lengthy suspension. A hearing is currently set for September 30, which would potentially allow the wideout to play in a few games to begin the 2025 campaign. However, per Pelissero, a settlement could be reached before then, meaning his suspension might start immediately. Without question, Rice is considered one of the most talented receivers in the National Football League. He began his career by finding the end zone seven times as a rookie. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old was limited to only four contests in 2024 before his season came to an abrupt end due to a knee injury. With a suspension on the horizon, his fantasy stock has taken a hit heading into the season. Still, he is expected to be an elite fantasy option once he's cleared to suit up. While Rice is off the field, Marquise Brown, Travis Kelce, and Xavier Worthy could be in line for more attention from Patrick Mahomes.