Who Should I Start? Khalil Shakir or Ladd McConkey

Saturday, October 4, 6:12 AM

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir has been the definition of a boom-or-bust fantasy option through the first four weeks of the season, posting point totals of 9.4, 1.7, 12.5, and 15.4. His limited usage in the offense--typically fewer than six targets per game--makes him heavily touchdown dependent, which creates weekly volatility for fantasy managers. While Shakir's big-play ability gives him upside, it's difficult to predict when those breakout games will come, making him far more valuable in best ball formats than in standard redraft leagues. Heading into Week 5, Shakir should be treated as a mid-level flex option, ranking behind more reliable volume-based receivers such as Wan'Dale Robinson and Ladd McConkey. Managers seeking a safe floor may want to look elsewhere, but those chasing upside can still take the gamble.

Monday, October 6, 5:51 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey finally reached the end zone on Sunday, catching five of seven targets for 39 yards and a touchdown in the team's 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders. It was a much-needed bounce-back after last week's poor performance, demonstrating that he can be trusted again in short-yardage and red-zone situations. He also had a 57-yard punt return touchdown called back by a penalty, one of 10 penalties that disrupted L.A.'s rhythm all day. With rookie running back Omarion Hampton (ankle) placed on IR, the Chargers might need to rely more on their receivers, and McConkey's dependable hands could earn him more targets against a vulnerable Miami Dolphins secondary in Week 6.