Who Should I Start? Cairo Santos or Eddy Pineiro

Saturday, November 23, 5:44 AM

Chicago Bears kicker Cairo Santos is a solid, somewhat unexciting fantasy option in Week 12 as he faces the Minnesota Vikings. Santos' most recent performance was a mixed bag while he successfully converted his first two field goals, he had a chance to win the game with a field goal at the buzzer, only to see it get blocked. Whether that missed opportunity will linger in Santos' mind remains to be seen, but he has generally been reliable throughout the season, making him a dependable kicker option. Minnesota's defense has been tough on passing offenses this year, ranking 4th in points per game allowed and 1st in EPA per play, which could mean fewer scoring opportunities for the Bears. Still, Santos has been consistent in terms of accuracy, and with the potential for field goal attempts in a low-scoring game, he's worth considering as a start. While there are likely higher-upside options available, Santos is a steady, if unspectacular, play for Week 12. If you're dealing with bye-week issues or injury concerns, he's a reasonable choice, but don't expect any game-changing performances.

Friday, November 22, 1:20 PM

Carolina Panthers kicker Eddy Pineiro (knee) is listed as questionable to play in Week 12 on Sunday versus the Kansas City Chiefs with a left-knee injury that he suffered in Germany during the overtime celebration in the win over the New York Giants in Week 10, according to head coach Dave Canales. However, Canales also said Pineiro had two good practices this week coming out of the bye and is expected to play this weekend. The 29-year-old probably won't be 100 percent on Sunday, though, and fantasy managers should be looking to avoid him against one of the better defenses in the league in KC. Carolina's inconsistent offense has only provided Pineiro with 13 field-goal attempts (31st in the NFL) in 2024 and 17 extra-point opportunities (tied for 21st). Continue to avoid Pineiro as a fantasy kicker.