Who Should I Start? Jacob Cowing or Luke McCaffrey

Friday, June 13, 12:14 PM

The Athletic's Matt Barrows writes that one of the themes among coaches and players this spring was that nobody took better advantage of the offseason than San Francisco 49ers second-year wide receiver Jacob Cowing. The 24-year-old was selected 135th overall (fourth round) last year but had a minimal role, catching just four passes for 80 yards in 15 games (zero starts). However, he trained with quarterback Brock Purdy and receiver Ricky Pearsall (hamstring) early in the offseason and had a prominent role during spring practices. It helped that Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk (knee) and Jauan Jennings (calf) were sidelined, but it's notable nonetheless. Cowing has great speed and is doing a better job of maintaining it throughout his cuts and breaks. He's good with the ball in his hands and could be a nice little gadget player in 2025, although it's unlikely to amount to much fantasy value.

Sunday, December 29, 10:26 AM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Luke McCaffrey is expected to see an expanded role for the Week 17 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Fellow wideout Dyami Brown (hamstring) has been ruled out for this game, which should push McCaffrey into a bigger role. McCaffrey hasn't done much on the field this season with two receptions or less in every game since Week 5. He figures to be the third passing option behind Terry McLaurin and Olamide Zaccheaus. That being said, McCaffrey could see a few more passes come his way, but he'll remain a shaky fantasy option for Week 17.