Who Should I Start? Jacob Cowing or Brenden Rice

Saturday, January 4, 9:25 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jacob Cowing will see an uptick in snaps this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals in a road tilt. The rookie has been used sparingly in 2024 -- recording just two receptions and 50 yards in 11 appearances. However, he projects to see an elevated role in the offense with fellow wideout Deebo Samuel Sr. (rib, wrist) ruled inactive for the contest. Cowing has managed only 56 snaps in his debut campaign but was productive during his time at college -- breaking out in his third season with UTEP (104.2 YPG) before transferring to Arizona and notching two 85+ catch seasons. With QB Brock Purdy (elbow) set to sit, Joshua Dobbs will man the 49ers helm, so it isn't ideal for the 23-year-old wideout. Still, tight end George Kittle (ankle) is also dealing with an injury and is questionable for the matchup. Cowing could have a busy day in the team's season finale if Kittle sits. Though, he still won't be a recommended option. The former fourth-round pick comes in at RotoBaller's PPR WR87 in this week's rankings.

Tuesday, August 27, 7:41 PM

The Los Angeles Chargers announced on Tuesday that rookie wide receiver Brenden Rice and safeties Tony Jefferson and JT Woods were among the players that made the final 53-man roster heading into the 2024 regular season. Rice made the final cut after impressive during training camp and the preseason. The 22-year-old son of Hall of Famer Jerry Rice was taken in the seventh round of April's NFL draft out of USC. He might be worth stashing in deep dynasty/keeper leagues, but for his rookie season, he'll merely be a depth option for the Bolts behind Joshua Palmer, DJ Chark, rookie Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Simi Fehoko and Derius Davis. Rice excels with his route-running and also plays with a physical style on contested catches down the field. Initially, he might be a red-zone weapon for a new-look Chargers offense in 2024.