Who Should I Start? Marquez Valdes-Scantling or Calvin Austin III

Thursday, October 16, 7:09 PM

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (calf) was added to the team's injury report on Thursday and is expected to miss at least the next couple of weeks. The veteran wideout's absence is another setback for a 49ers offense already dealing with multiple injuries across the roster. Fortunately, tight end George Kittle (hamstring) is trending toward returning this week, providing quarterback Mac Jones with a much-needed security blanket in the passing game. Without MVS, expect to see a heavy dose of Kittle along with Kendrick Bourne and Jauan Jennings in the passing game while utilizing a run-heavy approach against the Atlanta Falcons. With the Falcons boasting the league's top-ranked defense, fantasy managers should temper expectations for all 49ers pass-catchers until the offense gets back to full strength.

Wednesday, October 15, 2:41 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III (shoulder) has been ruled out for Thursday night's matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals, marking his second straight missed game. Before suffering the injury, Austin had started all four contests, recording 10 receptions on 17 targets for 139 yards and two touchdowns. In his absence, tight end Darnell Washington has seen an increased target share, while D.K. Metcalf continues to build strong chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The Steelers will face a favorable matchup against a Bengals defense ranked 31st overall, giving their passing attack an opportunity to stay productive even without Austin on the field.