Who Should I Start? DK Metcalf or Khalil Shakir

Tuesday, October 7, 6:46 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf delivered his best showing of the season in Week 4 with five receptions for 126 yards and a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings. Although nearly all of his production came in the first half, it was encouraging to see the seventh-year pro featured early and often after a slow start to the campaign. Coming out of a Week 5 bye, Metcalf will get his first taste of an AFC North rivalry with the Cleveland Browns on tap for Week 6. While Cleveland has been strong defensively this season, it has still allowed five wideouts to finish as top-24 fantasy options in as many games. Fantasy managers may have safer choices this week, but Metcalf remains firmly in the WR2 mix.

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.