Who Should I Start? Robert Woods or Kendrick Bourne

Friday, February 23, 2:21 PM

The Houston Texans will have an estimated $65.4 million in salary cap space in 2024, so they are in good shape. But if they are going to cut someone to gain even more cap space this offseason, The Athletic's Mike Jones speculates it could be veteran wide receiver Robert Woods. While Woods has been regarded as a reliable veteran, his production has declined in recent years, and he's set to count $9.75 million against the cap. He had only 40 catches for 426 yards and a touchdown in 14 games in 2023, and the emergence of young receivers Nico Collins and Tank Dell could cause the soon-to-be 32-year-old to be expendable. If he's cut, Woods would come with a $4.75 million dead-cap hit. Even after Dell suffered a season-ending injury last year, Woods found it difficult to stand out for the Texans and fantasy managers.

Sunday, March 10, 9:22 PM

Wide receiver Kendrick Bourne agreed to a new deal to remain in New England. The contract is for three years, and he'll be eligible to earn up to $33 million. The 28-year-old amassed 406 yards and four touchdowns off 37 catches last season. However, despite appearing on track for a career year, Bourne suffered a torn ACL during the AFC East battle with the Miami Dolphins in Week 8. Fortunately, he should be ready to go for the 2024-25 campaign. But with a new head coach in the equation and Mac Jones out of the picture, Bourne could have a tough time finding his rhythm. His knee injury is also something fantasy managers should keep in the back of their heads. Yet, while reaching for him during fantasy drafts heading into the new season isn't recommended, he's worth grabbing if he's available later than expected.