Who Should I Start? George Pickens or Khalil Shakir

Thursday, October 2, 9:41 AM

Coming off a monster Week 4, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens could be an even more active part of the Week 5 game plan, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic. The offseason trade acquisition had his best game of the season last week against Green Bay, going for eight catches, 134 yards, and two touchdowns in Dallas' first full game without CeeDee Lamb (ankle). This week, with a matchup against the New York Jets and cornerback Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner looming, Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer said the club plans to move Pickens all over formations to create favorable matchups. That should sound good to managers who roster Pickens, who figures to continue as the top option in Dallas as long as Lamb is out.

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.