Who Should I Start? Michael Woods II or Xavier Smith

Thursday, May 29, 6:27 PM

Cleveland Browns wide receiver Michael Woods II (knee) was seen taking part in Wednesday's voluntary organized team activities. Woods did not play in the team's Week 18 regular-season finale last year against the Baltimore Ravens due to a knee injury, but the 25-year-old appears to be fully recovered and a full-go heading into the 2025 season this fall. The former sixth-rounder (202nd overall) in 2022 out of Oklahoma had only five catches for 45 yards in 10 games (no starts) in his rookie season in 2022, didn't play at all in 2023, and caught seven of 17 targets for 65 yards and no touchdowns in just five games (two starts) last season. The Browns have opportunity in their receiving corps behind Jerry Jeudy and Cedric Tillman, but Woods will merely be competing with Diontae Johnson, Jamari Thrash, David Bell and DeAndre Carter for a depth role. He's not on the fantasy radar right now.

Sunday, August 25, 7:43 AM

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Xavier Smith caught four passes for 34 yards on five targets to lead all Rams receivers in Saturday's loss to the Houston Texans in the final preseason game. Smith was efficient in catching four of his five looks but didn't stretch the field much on his catches. The Rams went deep into their depth chart in the last preseason game, giving Smith a big opportunity. He did nicely with his chance but is not someone who will be on the fantasy radar this season.