Who Should I Start? George Pickens or Ricky Pearsall

Tuesday, May 13, 1:12 PM

While with the Pittsburgh Steelers, opposing defenses often double-teamed wide receiver George Pickens or shaded a safety to his side. Now with the Dallas Cowboys, The Athletic's Ted Nguyen and Saad Yousuf think that teams will continue to double-team CeeDee Lamb, which will mean more one-on-one coverage for Pickens. The 24-year-old was dealt for a third-round pick because of his inconsistent effort on the field in Pittsburgh, but on paper, he's the perfect complement to Lamb as one of the league's best go-ball receivers that can really stretch a defense down the field. While his effort is lacking and Lamb will draw his fair share of targets, there's no denying that Pickens will be playing with the best QB of his career in Dak Prescott in an offense that should be pass-happy. If Pickens can stay healthy, he'll have a chance for a career year in 2025.

Sunday, January 5, 10:47 PM

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall followed last week's breakout game with another strong showing in Sunday's 47-24 Week 18 loss to the Cardinals in Arizona. The Arizona native caught six of eight targets for 69 yards, including a six-yard touchdown grab on a contested slant pattern from backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs. Pearsall, who started his 49ers career on a terrifying note -- being shot in the chest during an armed robbery attempt -- had an up-and-down year once he debuted in Week 7. Pearsall produced four fantasy-useful performances in 2024 but seven in which he was held below six half-PPR points. With momentum and the validation of his first-round pedigree this season, Pearsall could be an intriguing late-round fantasy pick in 2025 depending on the health of Brandon Aiyuk's knee, and if Pearsall can move past Jauan Jennings and/or Deebo Samuel Sr. in the 49ers' hierarchy.