Who Should I Start? Darnell Mooney or Khalil Shakir

Tuesday, November 4, 4:53 PM

Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney was a non-factor again in Week 9's 24-23 loss to the Patriots, earning just two targets, which resulted in one catch for 15 yards. It was the second straight game with one reception and the third time this season. The 28-year-old played every single offensive snap on Sunday, so his lack of production is all the more glaring. So far this season, the veteran receiver has registered 0.15 targets per route run, putting him in a range with the likes of Matthew Golden and Rashod Bateman. Aside from an 11-target, four-catch performance in Week 3, the 5-foot-11 wideout has tallied a total of eight catches on 16 targets for 129 yards and no scores in the five other contests in which he played. Whether it is his injury history piling up or Michael Penix Jr. simply sticking to shorter routes -- or a combination of both -- Mooney doesn't look startable in fantasy leagues right now. A favorable matchup on paper awaits Mooney in Week 10 against a beatable Colts pass defense, but Tuesday's addition of Sauce Gardner from the Jets should enhance their ability to defend the pass.

Saturday, November 1, 4:53 PM

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir has emerged as the go-to option for quarterback Josh Allen as the team heads into the second half of the season. The 25-year-old receiver has seen five or more targets in each of the last four games and has established himself in the passing game as the team has been without tight end Dalton Kincaid. With Kincaid returning, Shakir should have more room to operate against a Chiefs defense that will be struggling to determine what option they will take away. Kansas City's third-ranked pass defense, allowing 177.8 yards per game, will be the matchup to watch, leading to a lower floor than expected for this offense. Shakir projects as a flex option heading into Week 9.