Who Should I Start? Noah Brown or Collin Johnson

Wednesday, March 19, 10:30 PM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Noah Brown (kidney) was cleared two weeks ago to beginning working out this offseason after he missed the end of the 2024 campaign due to a kidney laceration that he suffered in early December in Week 12. Brown had a strong first season in Washington in 11 games (nine starts), catching 35 of his 56 targets for 453 yards, with his only touchdown coming on a dramatic and successful Hail Mary to help beat the Chicago Bears. "I feel like I'm built for this, and I'll come back stronger," Brown said. The 29-year-old was re-signed to a one-year deal to return to D.C. for the 2025 season, but it will be harder for him to make an impact in fantasy after Washington traded for Pro Bowl pass-catcher Deebo Samuel Sr. Brown should still have a role in the Commanders' offense, but as things currently stand, he's looking like more of a WR5/6 in deeper fantasy leagues.

Saturday, September 14, 3:00 PM

With wide receivers Keenan Allen (heel) and Rome Odunze (knee) listed as questionable for Sunday night's game in Houston, the Chicago Bears have elevated wide receiver Collin Johnson from their practice squad. Johnson, who was released by the Giants during final cuts in 2023, was signed to the Bears' practice squad on October 10th and was later promoted to the active roster. He played 40 snaps over the last three games of the season, catching one pass for 11 yards. Johnson showcased his potential during the preseason, recording three catches for 53 yards and two touchdowns in the Hall of Fame Game against the Texans on August 1. Despite this, he did not play in the subsequent three preseason games due to injury and failed to make the Bears' 53-man roster. If Allen or Odunze are unable to play, the Bears will miss the size and physicality that Johnson, standing 6'6" and weighing 222 pounds, can provide. Johnson has had more time to learn the offense and could fill that gap. While he doesn't need to be rostered in fantasy leagues at this time, he could be a useful emergency fill-in if both Allen and Odunze are sidelined.