Who Should I Start? Brandon Aiyuk or Emeka Egbuka

Thursday, September 25, 12:43 PM

The Athletic's David Lombardi reports that it doesn't look like Week 6 is a realistic date to expect wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (knee) to return from the Physically Unable to Perform list based on general manager John Lynch's recent comments. Aiyuk did not suffer a "clean" ACL tear -- he also had damage to his MCL -- in Week 7 of last year, hence a longer recovery. However, Lombardi added that Aiyuk hasn't had any setbacks during his recovery, and he's been seen sprinting at practices. Lynch said that the 27-year-old wideout is "not close" to coming off the PUP list in 2025. Fantasy managers who are stashing the former first-rounder are going to need to stay patient. In the meantime, receivers Jauan Jennings (ankle) and Ricky Pearsall (knee) will remain the top pass-catchers for the banged-up Niners with tight end George Kittle (hamstring) out.

Friday, September 26, 3:11 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka is off to an impressive start to his NFL career. Last week, Egbuka hauled in six of his eight targets for 85 yards in the win over the New York Jets. He could be asked to take on a heavier workload this weekend with Mike Evans (hamstring) ruled out. The Bucs are still uncertain if Chris Godwin (ankle) is ready to return to action. That being said, Egbuka could be asked to step up and be the primary option in the receiving game. On paper, Egbuka should have success given the Philadelphia Eagles struggles to contain wide receivers. Last week, Puka Nacua burned them for over 100 yards. Egbuka should be able to offer low-end WR1 value for this Week 4 matchup.