Who Should I Start? Kendrick Bourne or Xavier Gipson

Friday, January 9, 9:29 AM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne recorded 37 receptions for 551 yards (14.89 YPC) and zero touchdowns on 53 targets in 16 games in 2025. The majority of Bourne's production came in early October, when he stepped in as the team's main pass-catcher, with George Kittle, Jauan Jennings, and Ricky Pearsall (knee, ankle) all ruled out for a brief time. Bourne's role faded as the team continued to get healthy; however, should Pearsall miss Sunday's contest against the Philadelphia Eagles, Bourne could find himself playing more often and would likely be elevated to the team's No. 2 wide receiver alongside Jennings. Additionally, according to Novig, the Niners are underdogs (+4.5) and should be in a game flow that favors a pass-happy approach, which would result in more target opportunities for Bourne should he get more playing time. Demarcus Robinson would likely be operating more in three-wide receiver sets. Pending Pearsall's availability, Bourne would be a bit of a dart throw in fantasy playoff leagues, but would be worth a roster as a long-shot option.

Thursday, September 11, 4:23 PM

The New York Giants have claimed wide receiver Xavier Gipson off waivers from the New York Jets, per NFL.com's Ian Rapoport. Gipson was released by the Jets after his costly special teams fumble played a big role in the team's Week 1 loss. With the Giants, Gipson should have a chance to battle wide receiver Gunner Olszewski for a role as a reserve slot receiver and primary special teamer. In 35 career NFL games, Gipson has recorded 27 receptions for 268 yards and one touchdown. He should remain off the radar of fantasy managers.