Who Should I Start? DeVonta Smith or Brandon Aiyuk

Friday, December 20, 11:06 PM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith looks to keep his momentum rolling in Week 16 against the Washington Commanders. Smith has scored in back-to-back games, including an 11-catch, 109-yard performance in the Eagles' 27-13 win over the Steelers. It was his best game of the season, fueled by a season-high 12 targets, as Philadelphia's passing attack clicked. While Washington's defense is stingy, ranking fourth in passing yards allowed per game (189.6), they have struggled in the red zone, surrendering 23 passing touchdowns this season. Smith's ability to earn targets and convert them into scoring opportunities makes him a solid WR2/Flex with upside this week. Fantasy managers should feel confident starting Smith as Philadelphia's offense looks to stay hot.

Friday, November 15, 7:10 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk (knee) had surgery on his right knee earlier this week to fix a torn ACL and other damage. In addition to tearing his ACL, Aiyuk also tore his MCL in the Week 7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs and will miss the rest of the season. He should have already been dropped in single-season fantasy leagues. It remains to be seen if the 26-year-old will make enough progress in his rehab in the offseason in order to be ready to play in Week 1 of the 2025 regular season next fall. For the rest of 2024, receivers Deebo Samuel Sr. and Jauan Jennings and tight end George Kittle should be the most-targeted pass-catchers, with rookie first-rounder Ricky Pearsall also seeing an expanded role in the passing attack. Aiyuk was an absolute fantasy bust this year, finishing with 25 catches for 374 yards and no touchdowns in seven games.