Who Should I Start? Kayshon Boutte or Ladd McConkey

Friday, November 22, 10:22 AM

New England Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte hasn't quite cracked the top 40 fantasy options since Week 6, but he has been one of the more consistent pass-catchers over the last four weeks. During his most recent four-game stretch, Boutte has six targets in every contest, totaling 13 catches, 144 yards, and zero touchdowns. When he last faced Miami in Week 5, he caught two passes for 34 yards. The second-year receiver out of LSU is widely regarded as a deep-threat receiver, boasting a low floor and high ceiling. Miami has allowed the fewest fantasy points to wide receivers this year, but that number is likely skewed from the four-game stretch for which Tua Tagovailoa was sidelined; during that span, opponents adopted a run-heavy approach against the Dolphins and did not have to develop an overly aggressive passing attack. This Miami team allowed Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp to combine for 16 catches and 178 yards just two weeks ago. Boutte isn't on the same level as either Rams receiver, nor does he play the same role, but the bottom line is that the Dolphins have shown they aren't going to shut down every pass-catcher they face. Boutte checks in as a low-end WR4 in deeper formats, such as 14-team leagues.

Thursday, November 21, 4:17 PM

Los Angeles Chargers rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey (shoulder) did not practice during Thursday's session. The Georgia product sustained this shoulder injury during their victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday evening. Fantasy managers should pay close attention to his status throughout the week as he has two more opportunities to log a session before Monday's game against the Baltimore Ravens. Last weekend, the rookie tallied a season-high 123 yards off six receptions. Since Week 8, McConkey has begun to find his footing at the professional level and has averaged a solid 87.5 yards per game in this stretch. If the 23-year-old can suit up, fantasy managers should start him in all formats, given his favorable matchup against the Ravens, who have allowed the most PPR points to opposing wideouts this season.