Who Should I Start? Jaxon Smith-Njigba or Ricky Pearsall

Sunday, October 12, 5:08 PM

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver continued his unbelievable 2025 campaign with a 162-yard explosion against the Jaguars in Week 6. Smith-Njigba is positioning himself in such a way that gives him a legitimate shot at finishing as the WR1 overall in fantasy. JSN has developed a quick chemistry with quarterback Sam Darnold. He has scored at least 18.3 PPR fantasy points in every game but one this season. He is already on pace to top his career high of six touchdown receptions as well. Smith-Njigba's production is matchup proof. He seems to be able to find room against zone coverage and beat defensive backs in man coverage with ease. Darnold continues to look for Smith-Njigba in every situation. Houston will provide an interesting test for JSN in Week 7, but he should absolutely remain in every lineup.

Thursday, October 16, 4:55 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) missed practice for the second straight day on Thursday, per Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Pearsall has been sidelined since Week 4 due to a knee sprain, and he appears to be at risk of being inactive again in Week 7 when the 49ers take on the Atlanta Falcons. Pearsall has recorded 20 catches for 327 yards on 29 targets across four games so far this season. If he remains out, 49ers wideout Kendrick Bourne could be in for another week as the focal point of the team's passing game. San Francisco could be getting star tight end George Kittle (hamstring) back off of Injured Reserve in Week 7 as well. Should Pearsall return against Atlanta, he would profile as a low-end WR3/flex option. However, fantasy managers should likely count on him being sidelined for a third straight week.