Who Should I Start? Brandin Cooks or Ricky Pearsall

Saturday, November 23, 4:27 PM

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks (knee) has been downgraded to out ahead of Sunday's game against the Washington Commanders. The veteran receiver has been on injured reserve since Week 4, and he'll have to wait at least one more week before returning to the mix. Through four games earlier in the season, Cooks caught nine passes for 91 yards and a touchdown. He figures to operate as the Cowboys' No. 2 receiver once he's healthy, but until then, that role belongs to Jalen Tolbert. Cooks could struggle to deliver meaningful production while catching passes from backup quarterback Cooper Rush.

Saturday, November 23, 2:31 AM

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall faces a tough road matchup against the Green Bay Packers in Week 12. Last week Pearsall turned in a donut, failing to catch either of two targets in a loss to the Seattle Seahawks. It was particularly disappointing though, since the game before in Tampa saw Pearsall catch his first touchdown en route to a six-target, four-catch, 73-yard performance. Even if Pearsall's ceiling is enticing, last week made it clear what his floor is. To make matters worse, San Francisco will be without its starting quarterback Brock Purdy (shoulder), and possibly left tackle Trent Williams, who is questionable with an ankle issue. Backup Brandon Allen may well be up to the task of running the Niners' offense, but the risk is prohibitive for a player like Pearsall in fantasy. The rook is a low-end WR4 at best, with only deep-league managers considering a dart throw.