Who Should I Start? Malik Washington or Jalen Royals

Friday, February 20, 7:51 AM

Across 17 games played in 2025, Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington hauled in 46 receptions for 317 yards and three touchdowns on 65 targets. The 25-year-old also showed an ability to make an impact in the running game, recording 17 carries for 110 yards and a score. Washington's role in Miami grew after star Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (knee) suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 4. Miami released Hill earlier this week, so Washington may enter 2026 as the team's WR2 alongside star wideout Jaylen Waddle. However, the Dolphins will have an altered offensive infrastructure in 2026, as former head coach and play-caller Mike McDaniel has been replaced, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is reportedly on the trade block. Washington has also been a highly inefficient wide receiver to this point in his career, averaging just 7.5 yards per reception. His dual-threat ability gives him some fantasy intrigue, but Washington's dynasty value is neutral at best after his modest output in 2025.

Wednesday, October 8, 11:09 AM

Kansas City Chiefs rookie wide receiver Jalen Royals missed the first two games of the 2025 season with a knee injury. He's been active in each of the team's last three games, but Royals has not yet been targeted by Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The 22-year-old appears buried on Kansas City's wide receiver depth chart behind Xavier Worthy, Marquise Brown, Tyquan Thornton, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. Royals could fall down the depth chart even further in Week 7 when top Chiefs wideout Rashee Rice is eligible to return from suspension. Royals maintains some appeal in dynasty leagues, but he should remain off the radar of redraft fantasy managers for the time being.