Who Should I Start? Jauan Jennings or Ricky Pearsall

Saturday, May 10, 3:19 PM

Per the team's transcript on Thursday, San Francisco 49ers offensive coordinator Klay Kubiak noted that wide receiver Jauan Jennings still views himself as the No.1 guy in San Francisco. Specifically, Kubiak was asked if Jennings would resume WR1 duties for the team with uncertainty surrounding teammate Brandon Aiyuk's (knee) status. "I think, if you ask Jauan, he says 'I'm No. 1," he replied. "And that's his mindset, and that's why we love Jauan." The 27-year-old was an afterthought in fantasy drafts last summer, but injuries opened up opportunity, and the former seventh-round pick ran with it. Jennings led all 49ers pass-catchers not named George Kittle in receptions (77), yards (975), and touchdowns (six). He may have to stave off a second-year ascension from fellow wideout Ricky Pearsall, but Jennings should again have a shot to be productive 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.