Who Should I Start? Jaylin Noel or Keandre Lambert-Smith

Wednesday, February 11, 9:36 AM

Houston Texans wide receiver Jaylin Noel had a quiet rookie season, in which he finished seventh on the team in targets and was held without a reception through two playoff games, but the 2025 third-round pick at least showed flashes throughout the year. He put up a combined 140 yards in what was his best two-week stretch against the Seahawks and 49ers, but he was unable to build on that success, and he all but lost his role in three-receiver sets when Christian Kirk returned from the hamstring injury that sidelined him for three weeks. The 23-year-old is currently being drafted as an afterthought in dynasty startups, but with Kirk no longer under contract heading into a new league year, there is a strong chance Noel will reclaim primary slot duties, making him a player potentially being slept on heading into 2026.

Friday, January 9, 4:31 PM

Los Angeles Chargers rookie wide receiver Keandre Lambert-Smith (hamstring) did not practice all week and has been ruled out for Sunday night's Wild-Card playoff contest against the hosting New England Patriots. Lambert-Smith got more playing time in the Week 18 regular-season finale against the Denver Broncos with the Bolts resting some starters, but he injured his hamstring and won't be available for the start of the postseason. The 23-year-old had a very limited role in his first year in the NFL with the Chargers, catching just five passes on 12 targets for 51 yards and one touchdown in 10 games played. Lambert-Smith's absence against the Pats could lead to some more playing time for Tre' Harris behind Ladd McConkey, Keenan Allen, and Quentin Johnston.