Who Should I Start? DeVonta Smith or Ricky Pearsall

Wednesday, October 8, 6:47 PM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith boomed against the Broncos, recording his highest target and receiving yard counts of the season in a team-leading performance. The question with Smith, as usual, is whether or not he can turn this into consistency. After his last big game against the Rams, he followed it up with two catches on two targets in the next outing. This week, he does have a very favorable matchup against the Giants, who are allowing the second-most fantasy points to WRs this season. Plus, on a short week, Smith might be able to capitalize on a New York defense that's less than 100% conditioned. He's worth a WR3 spot in what should be his second consecutive strong week.

Wednesday, October 15, 5:36 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) was not present at practice on Wednesday, according to David Lombardi of The Athletic. Pearsall has made progress in recovery from a knee sprain that he suffered in Week 4, but he's not quite ready to return to the practice field. The 25-year-old former first-rounder is making progress, but he might be forced to miss a third straight game this weekend when the Niners take on the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday night. Pearsall has two more days to get back onto the practice field, but it seems like he's trending toward another absence. The good news for the 49ers is that quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) and tight end George Kittle (hamstring) practiced on Wednesday, so they could both make their returns this weekend. Pearsall should be stashed in all fantasy leagues, but he should be left on your bench again this week.