Who Should I Start? George Kittle or Brandon Aiyuk

Saturday, October 25, 6:21 AM

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle returned from injured reserve last Sunday and promptly put up a goose egg. It was the first game in his career that he didn't record a reception. Kittle, who was used almost exclusively as a blocker last week, should see his involvement in the passing attack increase, even with Mac Jones (knee, oblique) once again starting in place of Brock Purdy (toe). Jauan Jennings (ankle, ribs, shoulder) practiced in full all week and carries no designation, but Ricky Pearsall (knee) has been declared out, leaving extra targets on the table. In Week 8, the 49ers square off against the Texans, who are allowing the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends and have given up just one touchdown to the position. Kittle is still a must-start, as his abilities as a receiver give him TE1 potential even in a difficult matchup.

Friday, October 24, 5:31 PM

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said that the team could open wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk's (knee) 21-day practice window next week, according to David Lombardi of The San Francisco Standard. Even if Aiyuk doesn't resume practicing next week, the team is in "week-to-week mode now" in terms of when they will designate him to return from the Physically Unable to Perform list. The 27-year-old has been out all year as he recovers from a devastating right-knee injury that he suffered in Week 7 of 2024. He is getting close to rejoining the team on the practice field, but Aiyuk's return to game action on Sundays may still be a ways off. The former first-rounder is worth stashing in all fantasy leagues, but expectations must be tempered as the Niners continue to slow-play his return. Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne will serve as the top receivers for San Fran again in Week 8, with Ricky Pearsall (knee) missing a fourth straight game.