Who Should I Start? Mack Hollins or Tyler Johnson

Friday, August 1, 4:28 PM

The New England Patriots have "significant plans" for veteran wide receiver Mack Hollins, according to ESPN's Mike Reiss. Hollins signed a two-year contract with New England in free agency after spending the 2024 season with the Buffalo Bills. Entering his age-32 season in 2025, Hollins has mostly played a supporting role as a run blocker and core special-teams player throughout his seven-year NFL career. However, he had his most productive year as a receiver in 2022 while playing under current Patriots' offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels when McDaniels was the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. That season, Hollins played 17 games (16 starts) and caught 57 passes for 690 yards and four touchdowns. He appears to be the favorite to start on the outside in New England alongside Stefon Diggs and slot receiver DeMario Douglas. The buzz around Hollins should cool fantasy enthusiasm for Patriots rookie receiver Kyle Williams, who looks to be blocked off from regular playing time.

Thursday, July 31, 3:41 PM

New York Jets wide receiver Tyler Johnson could enter the 2025 season as the team's WR3 behind Garrett Wilson and Josh Reynolds, according to Zack Rosenblatt of The Athletic. "Tyler Johnson has jumped out more in practice," Rosenblatt wrote. "[He's made] some plays after the catch and is exhibiting some athleticism that Lazard simply doesn't bring to the table." He notes that Lazard might not be a lock to make the team's 53-man roster at the end of the preseason. While this is fantastic news for Johnson, it's tough to be excited about his fantasy football prospects. The 26-year-old entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020 and has collected just 76 receptions for 828 yards and four touchdowns in 47 career games. Additionally, New York is set to have a low-volume passing offense with Justin Fields under center. Johnson could be an interesting best ball dart throw, but he can continue to go undrafted in traditionally fantasy setups.