Who Should I Start? Tim Patrick or Jalen Royals

Friday, March 14, 1:02 PM

The Detroit Lions announced on Friday that they re-signed wide receiver Tim Patrick to an undisclosed deal, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. After missing all of the 2022 and 2023 seasons due to devastating injuries while with the Denver Broncos, Patrick latched on with Detroit's practice squad last fall and ended up playing in 16 regular-season games (nine starts) while contributing 33 catches on 44 targets for 394 yards and three touchdowns as the No. 3 wideout behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. The 31-year-old will return to a high-powered Lions offense that remains relatively unchained outside of a new offensive coordinator. Patrick could have some decent games again for the Lions in 2025, but unless St. Brown or Williams miss extended time due to injury, he'll be hard to justify as a flex option in standard 12-team fantasy leagues.

Saturday, May 17, 1:19 PM

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jalen Royals appears to have a chance to be involved in the offense during the 2025-26 campaign sooner rather than later. "He can make an impact immediately," said Greg Castillo, Kansas City's western regional scout. "He can separate with the short route and he can separate with the intermediate route. He's got a ton of versatility. The 2025 No. 133 overall pick had a quality collegiate career, totaling 21 touchdowns in his final two seasons at Utah State. He also averaged 15.2 yards per catch during that span. The Chiefs have an experienced wide receiver group, consisting of Rashee Rice (knee), Marquise Brown, Xavier Worthy, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. In addition, tight end Travis Kelce will return for another season. But considering nagging injuries were a theme for the receiving corps last season, Royals is someone who may have a shot to contribute earlier than anticipated. Although his redraft stock isn't high, he's someone dynasty managers can consider later in rookie drafts.