Who Should I Start? D.K. Metcalf or Brandon Aiyuk

Monday, January 8, 5:00 AM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf saw a team-high six targets in Week 18 but had just one catch for 10 yards in Sunday's win, making it his least productive game of the year. Most of the balls that went Metcalf's way were well off-target as quarterback Geno Smith was under intense pressure and hurrying throws for most of the game. Metcalf was denied two additional receptions as well. The first was denied by a pass interference penalty that Seattle accepted to gain a first down and the other was overturned upon official review. It was a disappointing end to the season for Metcalf, who had just two top-12 finishes in 2023. Despite the down year, he still had his third 1,000-yard season in his five-year career, ending with 66 catches for 1,114 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. Metcalf, under contract through 2025, will return to Seattle next season as their top receiving threat.

Monday, April 22, 4:31 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has not formally requested a trade from the organization, but he is still in the thick of trade rumors this offseason. When asked whether or not the team has received calls regarding a trade for Aiyuk, General Manager John Lynch said "Sure. We receive calls for a lot of players." That's a vague answer and does not give fantasy managers clarity on the situation, but it's worth noting teams have reached out. Aiyuk posted a career-high 1,342 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last season despite ranking 28th in total targets (125). With Brock Purdy, Deebo Samuel, Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, Nick Bosa, and Fred Warner either on or set to receive expensive contracts, it will be a tough road to locking up Aiyuk to a long-term deal. If the team does decide to trade him, a first-round pick should be coming in return. Although Lynch has stated they would like to keep the 26-year-old, it wouldn't be shocking if he's dealt on draft night.