Who Should I Start? Kristian Wilkerson or Kevin Austin Jr.

Saturday, August 24, 10:36 AM

Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Kristian Wilkerson made a solid impression in the Raiders' preseason finale, snagging three catches for 35 yards and a touchdown in Friday's 24-24 tie to the San Francisco 49ers. While this performance boosts his chances of making the final roster, fantasy managers should temper their expectations. Even if Wilkerson secures a spot, he's likely to be no higher than fifth or sixth on the depth chart. In the Raiders' offense, this translates to minimal regular-season opportunities, barring multiple injuries ahead of him. His preseason touchdown showcases some red-zone potential, but Wilkerson's fantasy relevance will be severely limited with established targets like Davante Adams and Jakobi Meyers ahead of him. At best, he's a name to remember for deep dynasty leagues or as a potential in-season waiver wire option if injuries decimate the Raiders' receiving corps. For now, Wilkerson remains off the radar in all but the deepest of fantasy formats.

Monday, August 11, 11:15 AM

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. led the team in targets Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers, hauling in four of five chances for 42 yards. The third-year pro looks to be in play for a depth receiver role on a Saints team in the midst of a quarterback battle. New Orleans is giving a long look to quarterbacks Tyler Though and Spencer Rattler in the preseason, while the receiver room is paced by Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed and veteran Brandin Cooks. Austin could be a factor given some of the injury histories elsewhere on the roster, but the Saints' offense looks to be a work in progress.