Who Should I Start? Justin Jefferson or Ladd McConkey

Friday, November 7, 6:11 PM

Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson is yet again a WR1 option when his team plays host to the Baltimore Ravens, who have allowed opposing teams to score on 48% of their drives, the fourth-highest rate in the NFL. Baltimore ranks 23rd against PPR receivers this season and has allowed the seventh-most air yards on the season, though the Ravens have looked significantly improved during the past month, during which they've allowed their past three opponents an average of 13 points. Behind quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is playing for the first time after missing his entire rookie season and five games this year, the Vikings threw for only 143 yards last week in a win at Detroit. Even in a light week, Jefferson still drew nine targets and caught a touchdown, which should inspire some optimism as Minnesota sticks with McCarthy full-time. Though Minnesota figures to have some bumps in the road with a young quarterback, Jefferson is too good to be held in check for long stretches.

Friday, November 7, 6:02 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey remains a crucial part of the passing attack, recording a 23.5% season-long target share and catching four of six targets for 56 yards in a close win against the Tennessee Titans last week. This week, he faces the Pittsburgh Steelers' league-worst passing defense, which ranks 30th in yards allowed per game, although they recently defeated the red-hot Indianapolis Colts. While he will likely draw the attention of Steelers' cornerback Jalen Ramsey, McConkey's exceptional ability to create separation should keep his target volume high. He has become Justin Herbert's most trusted receiver over the last few games and is expected to receive plenty of targets against a recently surging defense. Although his WR1 ceiling is often touchdown-dependent due to the many mouths to feed in Los Angeles, his high floor makes him a dependable high-end WR2 or low-end WR1 option that should be started in all leagues.