Who Should I Start? Terry McLaurin or Khalil Shakir

Wednesday, December 24, 9:39 AM

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has provided a major lift to the passing game since returning in Week 13. McLaurin has compiled 16 catches on 26 targets for 259 receiving yards and two touchdowns, ranking 16th among wide receivers in yards over that span. The 30-year-old wideout has a golden matchup on Christmas Day against a Dallas Cowboys defense that is allowing a league-high 8.8 yards per pass attempt over the last five games. However, the Ohio State product could be catching passes from journeyman quarterback Josh Johnson, with Marcus Mariota (hand, quadriceps) uncertain to play after missing two straight practices to open the week. McLaurin still profiles as a solid start with upside in Week 17 as Washington's clear top target, ranking as RotoBaller's WR14 in PPR leagues.

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.