Who Should I Start? Mike Williams or Tarik Cohen

Thursday, July 17, 2:08 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams, who was recently placed on the training-camp PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, is retiring from the NFL after eight seasons. The 30-year-old entered the NFL as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Chargers following a stellar career at Clemson. He spent the first seven seasons of his pro career with L.A. before playing for the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024. Overall, Williams tallied 330 receptions for 5,104 yards and 32 touchdowns. He hangs up his cleats with two 1,000-yard seasons on his resume. Known as a big-play threat, his impact diminished later in his career as he aged and dealt with injury. While he was unlikely to be a significant factor for the Chargers this year, his departure gives Quentin Johnston more breathing room after a slow start to his NFL career.

Thursday, August 1, 1:10 PM

New York Jets running back and kick returner Tarik Cohen has announced his retirement. Despite having a promising training camp and expressing optimism about his return, Cohen has decided to step away from the game. Known for his standout performance as an All-Pro returner with the Bears in 2018, Cohen's career was significantly impacted by injuries. His last NFL game was in 2020 after he suffered a severe leg injury and torn knee ligaments. Cohen also endured an Achilles' tear in the spring of 2022. Though he hoped the new kickoff rules would help him secure a spot on the 53-man roster, something changed his decision. Drafted by the Bears in the fourth round in 2017 from North Carolina A&T, Cohen finished his career with 2,676 scrimmage yards, 14 touchdowns, 985 punt return yards (including one touchdown), and 628 kickoff return yards. He spent most of his NFL career with the Bears, with a brief stint on the Carolina Panthers practice squad last season.