Who Should I Start? A.J. Brown or Ladd McConkey

Friday, December 26, 11:17 PM

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (teeth) does not carry an injury designation heading into the weekend. Brown's low-usage Week 15 looks more and more like a fluke, as he caught his stride once again with nine catches for 95 yards on 12 targets against the Commanders last week. His last six weeks have been his best stretch of the season, and fantasy managers that held out through his struggles must be rejoicing. However, as fantasy playoffs come to a close, Brown has the Bills to deal with. Buffalo allows the eighth-fewest fantasy points to WRs this season and has not let an opposing receiver record 100+ yards since Drake London in Week 6. But, with the momentum Brown has had it feels foolish to doubt him now. Temper expectations in terms of yardage, but he should still have high upside in PPR leagues. He's a mid-tier WR2 in Week 17.

Friday, December 26, 9:53 AM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey returned to the end zone last week, leading the team with six targets, but a repeat performance will be difficult on Saturday against the Houston Texans. Houston's secondary is arguably the best in the NFL, ranking first in EPA/Pass and allowing the fewest passing yards per game. While McConkey remains Justin Herbert's primary target, the Texans' elite pass rush, which is tied for sixth in sacks, will likely force Herbert into quick, low-ADOT throws. This defensive pressure mirrors the conditions that led to McConkey's recent dud games rather than his productive outing against a porous Dallas secondary. While his target floor remains decent, the matchup significantly limits his big-play potential. He is a touchdown-dependent WR3 for the fantasy finals.