Who Should I Start? Ricky Pearsall or Travis Hunter

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.

Friday, May 9, 11:11 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter will "primarily" practice with the offense during rookie minicamp, according to NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe. The Jaguars plan to add defensive reps to his practice regimen eventually, but it's unclear if that will happen before the end of minicamp. Hunter is arguably the most athletic player in this year's rookie class, dominating as an offensive and defensive superstar at Colorado. As a receiver, he led the Big 12 with 96 catches and 15 touchdowns. While most fantasy members will only be able to get points for Hunter's offensive or defensive contributions (not both), he's still a high-upside fantasy option given his skill set and track record. Hunter's injury risk will have to be taken into consideration since he could be playing twice as many snaps as a typical player, but there's no denying his ability to produce when called upon.