Who Should I Start? Khalil Shakir or Emeka Egbuka

Thursday, August 7, 9:38 AM

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir (ankle) is progressing nicely through a high ankle sprain, according to coach Sean McDermott, and the 25-year-old receiver is currently on pace to be ready for Week 1. Shakir had 100 targets in 15 games last season with career highs of 76 catches, 821 receiving yards, and four touchdowns. Shakir is expected to be the team's top receiver once again this season, and it's good news that he should be available for Week 1. If he's limited or does miss time, there would be more work for Keon Coleman and newcomers Elijah Moore and Joshua Palmer. While he will likely miss most of the preseason, Shakir's still a WR4 in standard leagues since he has such an established relationship with Josh Allen, but monitor his progress as the preseason continues.

Wednesday, August 6, 7:12 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Emeka Egbuka has been a standout performer in training camp practices, according to ESPN's Jenna Laine. Laine writes that Egbuka has "stepped into Chris Godwin's role as (Tampa Bay's) big slot receiver." With Godwin (ankle) potentially sidelined to start the regular season while he recovers from ankle surgery, Egbuka could be in line for significant playing time immediately. In his final collegiate season at Ohio State in 2024, Egbuka caught 81 passes for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns in 16 games. The 22-year-old profiles as a fringe WR3/flex option with significant upside, particularly if Godwin struggles to return to full health in 2025.