NFL Player News

Smith (groin) won't play in Sunday's preseason opener against the Chiefs, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

Smith suffered the injury last weekend, and while the issue is expected to be minor, it's not surprising to see the wideout sidelined as a precaution. His next chance to suit up for game action will arrive Sunday, Aug. 20 versus the Chargers.

Thomas and the rest of the Saints' healthy offensive starters are expected to play in Sunday's preseason opener against the Chiefs, John Hendrix of SI.com reports.

This is great news for Thomas, who's been slowly working his way back into form after playing in just 10 games over the past three seasons. While the veteran wideout will likely be available, he'll presumably be limited to just a series or two.

Coutee signed with the Dolphins on Sunday.

Coutee was released by the Saints on Friday, so it didn't take long for the 26-year-old to find a new squad. He'll now work to earn a role in Miami, who waived fellow wideout Freddie Swain (hamstring) with an injury designation Sunday.

Humphries signed a contract with the Texans on Sunday, Aaron Wilson reports.

Humpries played in 17 contests for the Commanders last season, securing 41 of 62 targets for 383 yards. The 30-year-old will now work to earn a depth role in the Texans' wide receiver corps.

Shakir caught two of four targets for 25 yards in Saturday's 23-19 preseason win over the Colts.

Shakir -- who is vying for the third spot on the depth chart -- got some decent run with Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis sitting out the preseason opener. The opposite was true for the 23-year-old Shakir in his rookie season, as the Bills were fortunate to keep their top three receivers healthy for most of the year. After Isaiah McKenzie departed in free agency, Shakir is a candidate to play his way into the vacant role this preseason. His next opportunity to prove himself will come against the Steelers on Saturday.

Tolbert corralled both of his targets for 29 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's preseason loss to Jacksonville.

Tolbert caught the Cowboys' first receiving touchdown in the second quarter with the team's key wide receivers sitting out the first exhibition game. The 24-year-old was already making a good impression on the coaching staff in camp, and his hard work appeared to have paid off in the end zone. Tolbert will look to continue making strides this preseason as he attempts to lock up the No. 4 spot on the receiver depth chart.

Dulin had one reception for seven yards on his lone target in Saturday's preseason loss at Buffalo.

Dulin worked with the second-team offense as he tries to win a role as the No. 4 or No. 5 receiver. Dulin's 2022 season got off to a strong start, and he appeared to be gaining traction as the Colts' No. 2 or No. 3 receiver, but then he hurt his foot. He had 12 receptions for 168 yards on 18 targets over his first five games, but after missing the next four games with the injury, he was limited to just three receptions for 39 yards in six games. Dulin has been an impact player on special teams, so he should find a spot on the roster in any scenario.

Strachan had one reception for 18 yards in Saturday's preseason loss at Buffalo.

Strachan got time in the second quarter with the second-team offense. At 6-foot-5, Strachan could be a viable red-zone target if he wins a significant role, but the 2021 seventh-rounder is battling for one of the final receiver spots on the roster.

Jones did not record an official reception in Saturday's preseason game against the Cowboys, but he teamed up with Trevor Lawrence to complete a two-point attempt in the exhibition win.

Jones was active with the starters despite not being targeted, all but confirming his status as the third wideout on the depth chart behind Calvin Ridley and Christian Kirk to begin the year. The 28-year-old posted his best fantasy output after joining the Jaguars last season, but the addition of Ridley this offseason could cut into his targets. Jones will look to get more involved in the team's next preseason game against the Lions on Saturday.

Pierce failed to corral a catchable ball on his only target in Saturday's preseason loss at Buffalo.

Pierce started at wide receiver and failed to bring in a nice 34-yard pass from Anthony Richardson near the goal line despite it hitting his hands. While the drop was a negative, it also shows he may be building a rapport with Richardson on deep passes. Pierce started 12 of his 16 games as a second-round rookie last year and accounted for nearly as many deep targets (15) as every other Colts wideout combined (18). He's set to return as the No. 2 wide receiver opposite Michael Pittman.