Who Should I Start? Julio Jones or Chase Claypool

Friday, April 4, 7:32 PM

Former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones has officially announced his retirement. The Alabama product had an incredible run as a Falcon, with whom he spent nine seasons before serving three consecutive one-year stints with the Tennessee Titans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Philadelphia Eagles. Jones tallied 914 receptions, 13,703 yards, and 66 touchdowns in 166 career games. The 35-year-old is the author of the third-highest single-season receiving yardage total of all time and ranks No. 16 on the all-time list of most receiving yards in a career. Jones was a spectacle on the field, with a rare blend of size, speed, and physicality that sought to give any defensive back fits. The former sixth-overall pick of the 2011 draft holds an excellent case for becoming a member of the Hall of Fame.

Saturday, July 5, 10:37 PM

Free-agent wide receiver Chase Claypool (toe) is hoping to sign with an NFL team. The 2020 No. 49 overall pick was spectacular as a rookie, amassing 62 catches for 873 yards and 11 touchdowns. Since then, he hasn't been as productive. finding the end zone only six times. After stops in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Miami, Claypool was in line to suit up for the Buffalo Bills heading into the 2024 campaign. Unfortunately, he tore a ligament and tendon in his toe before eventually being released by the team. With the injury behind Claypool, he is eager to get back on the field while claiming to be stronger and faster than ever. "I am back to being the strongest and fastest I've ever been and couldn't be more excited to step back out on the field and let my actions speak for themselves," said the 26-year-old. "I deeply and truly believe that the pieces will align, and I will work my way into the position to show off what's been suppressed these last two years." It appears he is more motivated than ever. Although Claypool should see attention from fantasy managers if he signs with a club, he could have a tough time getting close to the level of production he had in his inaugural year. Still, the wideout is worth monitoring in case he ends up inking a deal with a team where he'll have the opportunity to get involved.