Who Should I Start? Brandon Aiyuk or Chris Olave

Wednesday, July 30, 3:07 PM

According to ESPN's Nick Wagoner, the San Francisco 49ers are still unsure when Brandon Aiyuk (knee) will return to action. The 2023 All-Pro selection was the talk of the offseason last year as he negotiated a new contract following a 1,300-yard campaign, and unfortunately, he tallied just 374 receiving yards and no touchdowns in seven games before suffering a torn ACL in 2024. The 27-year-old could be set to start the new season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP), which would require him to sit out at least the first four games. Dynasty fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status, and his cost in preseason redraft leagues is likely to continue to decline. Aiyuk could have a productive finish to the 2025 campaign if he can return to form, but it would be a surprise if he's a solid fantasy contributor early in the season. Wide receivers Jauan Jennings (calf) and Ricky Pearsall stand to gain the most value in Aiyuk's absence.

Tuesday, July 22, 4:16 PM

ESPN's Erin Summers reports that New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave (head) is a full go ahead of the team's training camp. It's excellent news for the former Ohio State Buckeye, whose 2024 was marred by multiple concussions that forced him to miss nine contests. Olave is a gifted NFL wide receiver, though we haven't quite seen his full upside in fantasy. Despite entering the season healthy, that may not be the case again, with questions surrounding the quarterback position after Derek Carr's abrupt departure. As of now, Tyler Shough appears to be the favorite to win the job over Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener. If Shough is just average, that'd be enough to make Olave's current price in drafts worth the risk. Talent has never been a concern for the 25-year-old, but his current situation doesn't inspire much confidence -- even as his team's unquestioned No. 1 wideout.