Who Should I Start? Keenan Allen or Tyler Lockett

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.

Saturday, October 18, 9:17 AM

Tennessee Titans wide receiver Tyler Lockett offers a strong, veteran presence within a struggling offense, but he's unlikely to contribute as a relevant fantasy football option in Week 7 against the New England Patriots. While it's fair to initially suspect that Lockett could steal some targets from Calvin Ridley (hamstring) has been ruled out, that doesn't appear to be the case. Ridley started last week's game but exited early and did not return, but Lockett still just caught just one pass on a 33 percent snap share. Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike are far more likely to handle Ridley's vacated targets, leaving Lockett in a smaller role once again. He can be avoided in most fantasy leagues.