Who Should I Start? Brandon Aiyuk or Jayden Reed

Tuesday, December 2, 11:37 AM

San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch said he is "not sure" but "hopeful" when asked if it's realistic to expect wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (knee) to take the field in 2025, per David Lombardi of The San Francisco Standard. Aiyuk tore multiple ligaments in his knee in Week 7 of the 2024 season and has yet to play in a game since. Aiyuk was one of the most efficient wide receivers in the NFL in the last full season he played back in 2023, recording 75 catches for 1,342 yards and seven touchdowns on 105 targets. However, it appears as though he may not be healthy until 2026. Aiyuk also may be locked into a contract stand-off with the team, as the 49ers reportedly voided guarantees in his current contract. Between the injury and the contractual issues, fantasy managers should likely proceed as though Aiyuk will not play a fantasy-relevant role in 2025.

Friday, December 5, 4:54 PM

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed (shoulder, foot) is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional matchup against the Chicago Bears, according to the team's official website. Reed was a limited participant every day in practice for the second consecutive week, and it's still unclear if the 25-year-old wideout will be able to return from Injured Reserve on Sunday. The 2023 second-rounder suffered a fractured collarbone in Week 2 versus the Washington Commanders while also dealing with a Jones fracture in his foot that he entered the season managing. Upon returning, Reed will deal with plenty of target competition with Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson both having strong seasons, and he'll likely be on a pitch count in his first game back. He should be viewed as a touchdown-dependent, low-end WR3/flex in the Packers' passing attack if he is able to return in Week 14.