Who Should I Start? A.J. Brown or Ricky Pearsall

Monday, February 9, 10:10 AM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown's future with the team is in doubt this offseason, but the Eagles have not had any trade talks surrounding the three-time Pro Bowler, multiple sources told Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network. Garafolo also said there have only been brief talks between the team and Brown since the 2025 season ended with a loss in the playoffs to the Los Angeles Rams. Brown seems to be more "at peace" and calm about things, but it doesn't mean that he won't be dealt this offseason after he voiced his frustrations with Philly's offense in 2025. If the Eagles trade the 28-year-old, they'd take a $43.5 million salary cap hit in 2026, so they'd be looking for significant compensation in any deal. For what it's worth, Brown said on a recent podcast that he's "excited" for next season. In 15 starts during the regular season, Brown caught 78 of his 121 targets for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns. He has become a more volatile fantasy wideout, but a move to a new team won't necessarily boost his fantasy value for the 2026 campaign.

Sunday, February 15, 4:31 AM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is trending up ahead of the NFL offseason. Fellow Niners receiver Jauan Jennings is headed for free agency, and given that his relationship with the team is rocky, it seems likely that he'll sign somewhere else. If Jennings does leave, and Brandon Aiyuk also departs as expected, that will open the door for Pearsall to step into the No. 1 receiver role. He showed the ability to handle a top role at times in 2025, but injuries prevented fantasy managers from being able to fully evaluate him. He ultimately finished his second pro season with 36 catches, 528 yards, and zero touchdowns across nine games. Because of his injury history, it might be tough for the 49ers to trust Pearsall as their No. 1 receiver. We wouldn't be surprised to see them go out and grab a top pass-catcher via trade or free agency, leaving Pearsall in the No. 2 role once again. He can absolutely still offer upside in fantasy football, though. The 49ers have a very capable offense, so Pearsall will be able to turn any workload into fantasy points. He ranks as a fringe top-36 fantasy receiver for 2026 and would jump into the top 24 if the 49ers don't bring in any competition for him.