Who Should I Start? Justin Watson or John Metchie III

Monday, December 29, 5:35 PM

The Houston Texans announced on Monday that they activated wide receiver Justin Watson (calf) from Injured Reserve. Watson will be eligible to play in the team's Week 18 regular-season finale this Sunday against the division-rival Indianapolis Colts, but it's unclear if he'll actually be active. The Texans activating the 29-year-old this week ensures that they'll have him available for their playoff run as additional receiving depth behind Nico Collins, rookies Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, and slot man Christian Kirk. Watson had played in only two games with Houston before landing on IR, catching three of his four targets for 30 yards. The eight-year vet probably isn't going to be a huge part of the Texans' offense the rest of the way, barring an injury to a receiver ahead of him on the depth chart.

Friday, January 2, 11:00 AM

After being acquired by the New York Jets from the Philadelphia Eagles in late October, wide receiver John Metchie III looked like a potential breakout candidate. Across his first three games with New York, the 25-year-old recorded 10 receptions for 113 yards and two touchdowns on 11 targets. However, Metchie III has been unable to maintain his hot start. Over his last five games played, Metchie III has failed to eclipse four catches or 41 receiving yards in a game, nor has he found the end zone. Metchie III's playing time has dropped off slightly as well, as he's played 77% or fewer of the Jets' offensive snaps in two out of the last three weeks. Especially with undrafted rookie quarterback Brady Cook in line to make his fourth straight start for the Jets in Week 18 against the Buffalo Bills, there's little reason to think Metchie III will reverse recent trends. He profiles as a wide receiver for fantasy managers to avoid in the final week of the 2025 regular season.