Who Should I Start? Roman Wilson or Malik Washington

Friday, September 5, 7:35 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Roman Wilson was sidelined for most of his rookie season but will look to make a name for himself in year two, starting with a road matchup against the New York Jets. Wilson should see some playing time, though his role is rather uncertain despite Pittsburgh's lack of proven pass-catchers. Between Wilson, Calvin Austin III, and Scotty Miller, someone should emerge as the team's WR2 behind DK Metcalf, but it may take time for quarterback Aaron Rodgers to build chemistry with his new weapons. Austin is currently listed as a starter on the depth chart, likely delegating Wilson to a depth role to begin the campaign. He's not yet on the fantasy radar, but as a 2024 day-two pick who flashed this preseason, Wilson's usage in Week 1 is worth monitoring in deeper formats.

Saturday, September 6, 9:50 AM

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malik Washington is set to start the season as the team's third receiver behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. The second-year receiver could be in for a more involved role in 2025 after catching just 26 passes for 223 yards as a rookie. Washington was Miami's sixth-round pick out of Virginia and was able to work extensively with starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa this training camp and preseason, while Hill and Waddle dealt with injuries. Washington showed his playmaking ability in the return game last year, and offensive coordinator Frank Smith praised his growth and understanding of the offense over the offseason. He's only the WR102 in RotoBaller's Week 1 Rankings, so he shouldn't be starting in any format yet. However, he is definitely a player to keep an eye on and possibly stash from waiver wires since he brings a lot of upside if he secures a big role in Miami's offense.