Who Should I Start? Brandon Aiyuk or Ricky Pearsall

Monday, August 11, 5:05 PM

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan hasn't thought about it much, but said that wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (knee) might return in Week 6. General manager John Lynch already said that he didn't think Aiyuk would be ready for Week 1 of the regular season in early September, but now it looks like the 27-year-old pass-catcher will be out much longer after tearing both his MCL and ACL in his right knee last October. Aiyuk is expected to begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list, which will require him to miss at least the first four games. He has not practiced with the team at all this year. Obviously, this is a big hit to Aiyuk's 2025 fantasy value. Aiyuk is stash-worthy in fantasy leagues that have designated Injured Reserve spots. In Aiyuk's absence, both Jauan Jennings (calf) and Ricky Pearsall stand to benefit as key members of the passing attack.

Wednesday, August 6, 7:34 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall has been "nearly unstoppable" during training camp practices in recent days, according to ESPN's Nick Wagoner. San Francisco may be leaning heavily on Pearsall to open 2025 with fellow wideouts Brandon Aiyuk (knee) and Jauan Jennings (calf) both battling injuries. A first-round pick in 2024, Pearsall recorded 31 catches for 400 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games as a rookie. The 49ers should also heavily feature tight end George Kittle and running back Christian McCaffrey in the passing game, but Pearsall is undoubtedly the team's WR1 while Aiyuk and Jennings are sidelined.