Who Should I Start? Jauan Jennings or Khalil Shakir

Wednesday, October 1, 4:56 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle, ribs) has been ruled out for Thursday night's game against the Rams, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Jennings is dealing with multiple injuries and will sit out as the team goes on the road on a short week. The 28-year-old took a big shot to the ribs in Week 4 that left him down on the ground for a bit afterwards. He didn't miss any game action, but had a quiet day overall, catching just two of four targets for 24 yards. Fantasy managers could pivot to Kendrick Bourne if they are desperate, as he is set to run a lot of routes with the 49ers' receiver room wiped out by injury. Jennings will have an extended amount of time to recover from his list of injuries and hopefully be good to go in Week 6.

Saturday, October 4, 6:12 AM

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir has been the definition of a boom-or-bust fantasy option through the first four weeks of the season, posting point totals of 9.4, 1.7, 12.5, and 15.4. His limited usage in the offense--typically fewer than six targets per game--makes him heavily touchdown dependent, which creates weekly volatility for fantasy managers. While Shakir's big-play ability gives him upside, it's difficult to predict when those breakout games will come, making him far more valuable in best ball formats than in standard redraft leagues. Heading into Week 5, Shakir should be treated as a mid-level flex option, ranking behind more reliable volume-based receivers such as Wan'Dale Robinson and Ladd McConkey. Managers seeking a safe floor may want to look elsewhere, but those chasing upside can still take the gamble.