Who Should I Start? Jacob Cowing or Javon Baker

Friday, November 22, 6:32 PM

San Francisco 49ers rookie wide receiver/kick returner Jacob Cowing (concussion) was unable to clear the league's concussion protocol and has been ruled out for Week 12 versus the Green Bay Packers. Cowing suffered his concussion in last Sunday's loss to the division-rival Seattle Seahawks and will now be hoping to clear the concussion protocol next week in order to face the Buffalo Bills in Week 13. Unexpectedly, the 23-year-old has mostly factored in on special teams (returning punts) in his first year in the NFL, despite Brandon Aiyuk (knee) being lost for the season. In nine games in 2024, the Arizona product only has two receptions on three targets for 50 yards. With Cowing out of action this Sunday at Lambeau Field, Ronnie Bell will most likely serve as the team's punt returner.

Thursday, September 12, 2:43 PM

New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Javon Baker was a healthy scratch for the Week 1 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. While this is a concern for his future outlook, some first-year players take longer to adjust to the NFL than others. Patriots wide receiver coach Tyler Hughes said, "I think we'll see him more and more as the season goes on." Four Patriots wideouts saw targets in Week 1, including K.J. Osborn (six), Demario Douglas (three), Tyquan Thornton (three), and Ja'Lynn Polk (one). It's worth noting Kendrick Bourne (knee) is on the PUP list, but he could return as soon as Week 5. Fantasy managers should probably expect Baker to have little to no fantasy value in Year 1, but he could make noise later in his career and should continue to be stashed in deep dynasty leagues.