Who Should I Start? Khalil Shakir or Ricky Pearsall

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.

Wednesday, October 1, 4:31 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall (knee) has been ruled out for Thursday night's game against the Rams, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Pearsall was already questionable while managing a knee injury heading into Week 3's matchup against the Jaguars, and then he left the game in the third quarter. He was testing it out on the sidelines and was ultimately able to return to the game, but had to shut it down after one snap. The short week made it unlikely for Pearsall to turn around and recover fast enough. But it does give him a longer period to rest, leading into Week 6. The San Francisco wide receiver room has been decimated by injury, leaving Kendrick Bourne as a potential target if you are desperate.