Who Should I Start? George Pickens or Ladd McConkey

Tuesday, October 28, 3:35 PM

The Dallas Cowboys have not engaged in contract extension talks with wide receiver George Pickens or his representatives with a week remaining before this year's trade deadline, a source told Ed Werder of ESPN. Pickens is on an expiring contract that will end after the 2025 season. Werder mentions that placing the franchise tag on Pickens is an option to Dallas that would cost a projected $28 million for the 2026 campaign. The 24-year-old former second-round pick has been an excellent addition to the Cowboys' offense this year, catching 43 of his 63 targets for 685 yards and a career-high six touchdowns in eight games played. Not only has Pickens been an excellent WR2 to help take attention off CeeDee Lamb, but he has also avoided any off-the-field distractions and has had a mature approach after character concerns surfaced in Pittsburgh. Even though an extension hasn't really been discussed, it doesn't mean he won't be back in Dallas next year.

Friday, October 31, 5:21 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey continued his hot streak, catching six of 10 targets for 88 yards and a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings last Thursday, leading the team in all major receiving categories. He ranks fifth in the league in targets and carries a solid 23.3% target share. He faces a middle-of-the-pack Tennessee Titans pass defense, but McConkey's outlook is boosted by an especially favorable slot matchup against defensive back Roger McCreary, who is allowing an 85.7% catch rate to opponents. While the overall passing volume might be limited due to a run-heavy game script, McConkey's high volume and favorable individual matchup keep his floor high. RotoBaller ranks him at WR13 this week. You can start him with confidence as a high-end WR2, with WR1 upside if he finds the endzone again.