Who Should I Start? Deebo Samuel or Rachaad White

Wednesday, May 1, 2:04 PM

The San Francisco 49ers were engaged in trade talks involving wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel leading up to the draft, but the team elected not to trade either of their star receivers, with all signs pointing toward both being on the 2024 roster. Aiyuk is entering the final year of his rookie deal, and the assumption was that he'd be the odd man out after the team paid Samuel and other star players. Samuel still has two years left on the deal he signed before the 2022 season. San Fran has been to at least the NFC Championship game in four of the last five seasons, and losing Aiyuk or Samuel would almost certainly make the team worse in 2024. The 49ers can afford to keep both this year, but an Aiyuk extension would likely reduce his $14.124 million salary cap number for 2024. Samuel's fantasy value would have likely taken a hit with a move out of the Bay Area.

Sunday, January 21, 9:12 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White made the most of his chances during Sunday's playoff matchup against the Detroit Lions. White didn't see his normal workload with the Bucs going pass-heavy in this game. He rushed nine times for 55 yards, while hauling in four of his five targets for 36 yards and a touchdown in the loss. White established himself as the workhorse RB1 in this offense. However, White managed only 3.6 yards per carry while seeing the second most rushing attempts in the league. It wouldn't be shocking to see the Bucs bring in some competition for White this offseason. Barring any blockbuster moves, White should still be able to provide at least RB2 value heading into next season.