Who Should I Start? Jaylen Waddle or Ladd McConkey

Saturday, December 20, 7:44 AM

Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle has clearly been the Dolphins' go-to wide receiver since Tyreek Hill (knee) sustained a season-ending injury, but this week against the Bengals, he'll be working with a new QB, which makes him much higher risk. Last week against the Steelers, Waddle only managed two catches for 26 yards in the Dolphins' defeat. Since that loss eliminated the team from playoff contention, it was also likely the end of the season for Tua Tagovailoa, who will be replaced by Quinn Ewers for this week's matchup. Waddle has turned his 90 targets into 59 catches for 838 receiving yards and six touchdowns this season, and he should remain the focus of the passing game with a high ceiling. The rookie QB taking over does raise Waddle's risk, though, which is why he's slid to no. 24 in RotoBaller's WR rankings this week, making him a WR3 or flex play in standard leagues, instead of a reliable WR2.

Friday, December 19, 9:55 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey is looking to rebound after a disappointing two-game stretch in which he totaled just 32 yards and posted a season-low 11.5% target share. Despite the recent lack of volume, McConkey faces a prime opportunity against a Dallas Cowboys defense that has allowed the most passing yards and touchdowns in the league. Dallas ranks 30th in EPA/Pass and is fifth in completion percentage allowed, providing a soft landing for the 24-year-old. With the Cowboys' pass rush ranking only 25th in sack percentage, Justin Herbert should have the time to find McConkey in the intermediate areas of the field. If Quentin Johnston (groin) is ruled out again, McConkey's target share should naturally gravitate back toward his season average. RotoBaller ranks him as the WR22 this week, and he is a strong WR2/3 option.