Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or Kenny Pickett

Saturday, December 6, 4:18 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey remains the most reliable target in the passing game heading into Week 14 against the Philadelphia Eagles, posting a 4-39-1 stat line on six targets last week. McConkey is quarterback Justin Herbert's go-to guy under pressure, commanding a team-high 20% target share and a 34% first-read rate. The Eagles have a top-10 secondary, and with Herbert (hand) questionable, the Bolts are expected to adopt a run-heavy game plan, likely decreasing overall passing volume. If Herbert is ruled out and Trey Lance starts, all receivers face a significant downgrade. RotoBaller ranks McConkey as WR17 this week. Given his reliable connection with Herbert in high-pressure situations, he can be considered a low-end WR2 even with the expected decrease in passing attempts. Temper expectations and production if Herbert is ruled out.

Thursday, September 4, 9:39 AM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kenny Pickett (hamstring) logged a full practice on Wednesday and is cleared to suit up in Week 1 when the Raiders face the New England Patriots. Pickett began the offseason with the Cleveland Browns but was traded to the Raiders in exchange for a fifth-round pick. The former first-round pick has been dealing with a hamstring injury, but appears to have moved past it. Fantasy managers should expect Pickett to operate as the backup option to Geno Smith. Currently, Aidan O'Connell (wrist) is on the injured reserve, which means Pickett will likely be given all of those opportunities under center if Smith were to miss time. Last season, Pickett spent time as Jalen Hurts' backup in Philadelphia but was deployed as a starter across his first two seasons in Pittsburgh. He is only worth a look in deeper superflex leagues if he were to take over the starting job.