Who Should I Start? Jordan Mason or Ladd McConkey

Sunday, October 5, 1:58 PM

Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason found the end zone and caught three passes Sunday against Cleveland, saving an otherwise average game with just 56 total yards. Mason and Minnesota did just enough, with the back scoring a second-half running touchdown to highlight a day in which he had 52 yards on 13 carries in Minnesota's 21-17 comeback win. The first-year Viking coughed up the ball in the first half for the second straight week, and lost some touches to backup Zavier Scott, who came in and also fumbled. The performance yardage-wise was to be expected as a decimated Vikings' O-line went against a good Cleveland front, but Mason should hang onto fantasy value as long as he can hang onto the ball. The Vikings will return to action in Week 7 after a bye next week.

Friday, October 3, 6:16 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey faces a crucial Week 5 matchup after a disappointing fantasy performance against the New York Giants, where he only caught one pass for 11 yards on six targets. Although McConkey is a vital part of the offense, leading the team with 160 routes run at a 93% route rate, his 59.3% catch rate and just one red-zone target in four games indicate limited scoring potential. The Washington Commanders' weak secondary should present a favorable matchup for McConkey, especially against DB Mike Sainristil. While a rebound is likely, RotoBaller downgrades him to WR21. Managers should keep expectations realistic as McConkey is better viewed as a WR3/FLEX option for now.