Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Mike Williams

Friday, October 17, 6:19 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen is coming off his lowest snap rate (56.3%) and second-lowest route rate (66.7%) of the season, posting just four catches for 27 yards on seven targets against the Miami Dolphins last week. He was out-targeted by both Ladd McConkey and rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden, even with teammate Quentin Johnston (hamstring) sidelined. While his declining usage is concerning, Allen has a favorable matchup against a middle-tier, banged-up Indianapolis Colts pass defense, particularly against DB Mekhi Blackmon, who is allowing an average of 11.3 yards per target. Historically, Allen performs better with Johnston on the field, so the latter's likely return could relieve some pressure on the veteran. RotoBaller ranks Allen as WR25 this week, making him a high-end WR3/FLEX option with potential upside in a shootout, but managers should be cautious of his decreasing volume.

Thursday, July 17, 2:08 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Mike Williams, who was recently placed on the training-camp PUP (Physically Unable to Perform) list, is retiring from the NFL after eight seasons. The 30-year-old entered the NFL as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Chargers following a stellar career at Clemson. He spent the first seven seasons of his pro career with L.A. before playing for the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024. Overall, Williams tallied 330 receptions for 5,104 yards and 32 touchdowns. He hangs up his cleats with two 1,000-yard seasons on his resume. Known as a big-play threat, his impact diminished later in his career as he aged and dealt with injury. While he was unlikely to be a significant factor for the Chargers this year, his departure gives Quentin Johnston more breathing room after a slow start to his NFL career.