Who Should I Start? Emari Demercado or Ladd McConkey

Friday, December 5, 6:18 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado (ankle) has been ruled out ahead of the Week 14 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. There was some hope that Demercado would return this weekend after getting in two limited practice sessions. Unfortunately, Demercado sat out of Friday's practice and will be held out for a third straight game due to an ankle sprain. His absence has opened up more playing time for both Bam Knight and Michael Carter, with Trey Benson (knee) still on Injured Reserve. Between the two, Knight is the better streaming choice for Sunday's slate in a tough matchup against L.A. Knight has found the end zone in three straight games. The 24-year-old should be considered a solid low-upside flex play against the Rams. Demerado has a limited path to fantasy relevance in PPR leagues the rest of the way, but only if Benson stays on IR.

Monday, December 1, 6:06 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey caught four passes for 39 yards and one touchdown, leading the team with six targets during their 31-14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. With Justin Herbert managing a fractured non-throwing hand sustained early in the game, the Chargers relied heavily on the run game. They kept most throws short behind PFF's league-worst offensive line, limiting big-play opportunities for all Bolts' receivers. Still, McConkey's continued involvement in the red zone is encouraging. Next Monday night, a top-10 secondary from the Philadelphia Eagles awaits, and Herbert's status remains uncertain. If Trey Lance starts, all pass catchers could see reduced production. However, Philly's defense has been notably vulnerable to slot receivers, giving McConkey a potential upside as the most natural fit to exploit their weakness.