Who Should I Start? Mike Evans or Ladd McConkey

Friday, December 5, 12:50 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles told reporters on Friday that wide receiver Mike Evans (collarbone) will not play on Sunday against the division-rival New Orleans Saints in Week 14, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Evans returned to practice this week for the first time since breaking his collarbone in Week 7, but he's just not ready yet. The 32-year-old future Hall of Famer could be ready to go next Thursday night against the division-rival Atlanta Falcons, though, depending on how much progress he can make early next week in practice. The Bucs could ease Evans back into the fold when he's ready, but he absolutely needs to be stashed in all fantasy leagues for his ability to help carry teams in the fantasy playoffs, which start in most leagues next week. With Evans and Jalen McMillan (neck) out another week, Tampa will move forward with Chris Godwin Jr. and Emeka Egbuka as their top wideouts, with Sterling Shepard and Tez Johnson battling for WR3 duties.

Monday, December 1, 6:06 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey caught four passes for 39 yards and one touchdown, leading the team with six targets during their 31-14 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. With Justin Herbert managing a fractured non-throwing hand sustained early in the game, the Chargers relied heavily on the run game. They kept most throws short behind PFF's league-worst offensive line, limiting big-play opportunities for all Bolts' receivers. Still, McConkey's continued involvement in the red zone is encouraging. Next Monday night, a top-10 secondary from the Philadelphia Eagles awaits, and Herbert's status remains uncertain. If Trey Lance starts, all pass catchers could see reduced production. However, Philly's defense has been notably vulnerable to slot receivers, giving McConkey a potential upside as the most natural fit to exploit their weakness.