Who Should I Start? Jalen Nailor or Ladd McConkey

Friday, December 5, 3:30 PM

After the Minnesota Vikings' offensive struggles reached a new low in Week 13, wide receiver Jalen Nailor should be considered a high-risk option when the Vikings play host to the Washington Commanders in Week 14. The Commanders' defense has been hugely ineffective this season, and it enters this week having allowed the highest percentage of scoring drives in the league. In the past month, however, Minnesota has been even worse. The offense's turnover rate has ballooned to over 17% of their possessions, and they've scored 42 points in their past 16 quarters. Nailor had a career-best day with quarterback J.J. McCarthy in Week 10, but caught just one pass on three targets combined during the next three games. The matchup this week is great, but starting Nailor should be considered a desperation play, given his low volume in what has been a bad offense.

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.