Who Should I Start? Khalil Shakir or James Cook

Saturday, December 27, 10:25 AM

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir hauled in four of five targets for 34 yards in the 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns. Despite being the Bills' current WR1, Shakir has struggled over the last four weeks, averaging three receptions for 30 yards. He is averaging 10.5 PPR points per game, ranking WR42 (the second-lowest among WR1s in the NFL). He faces the Philadelphia Eagles, who have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to slot receivers this season. Second-year corner Cooper DeJean has been stellar this season, and fantasy managers should take notice before considering Shakir in their Week 17 starting lineups. While Josh Allen has been spectacular at home this season, given Shakir's recent struggles and a tough matchup, he is better off out of starting lineups on fantasy championship weekend.

Saturday, December 27, 10:18 AM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook was dominant in Week 16's win over the Cleveland Browns, totaling 134 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns on just 17 touches. Cook has ascended once again in the 2025 season, jumping from 79.2 scrimmage yards per game in 2024 to 121.3 this season. He currently leads the NFL in rushing yards and ranks RB6 in PPR formats. The Bills host the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17, who have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs this season. While star defensive tackle Jalen Carter will be active this week for the Eagles, Cook and the Bills are running the ball with ease, so fantasy managers should expect more dominance from the fourth-year back.