Stock Up, Stock Down: Ladd McConkey finally emerging as Justin Herbert’s WR1

Fantasy Football Week 8 Stock Watch

With a number of wide receivers sidelined due to injuries, many fantasy players have been forced to adjust their lineups in search of the next standout performer. I hope you’ve found your pick. Week 8 of the NFL was another whirlwind, with players like Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman stepping up their game. While some have surged, others are beginning to show a clearer path to steady production. Keep in mind that the insights shared here are pending the Monday Night Football matchup between the Steelers and the Giants. Let’s dive into whose stock is rising and whose is tumbling.

STOCK UP

Ladd McConkey, WR, Chargers

Has Justin Herbert’s WR1 finally emerged vct ascension pacific? It certainly seems that way. McConkey delivered his best performance yet in Week 8 against the Saints, recording 6 receptions for 111 yards and 2 touchdowns on just six targets, finishing as the WR2. In his three previous games, McConkey saw at least seven targets. This week’s stellar outing marked his first time exceeding 70 receiving yards this season, indicating that Herbert is beginning to trust this rookie. The Chargers have also ramped up their passing volume, throwing at least 32 times in each of their last three games, compared to fewer than 27 attempts in their first four matches. This increase in passing opportunities means McConkey can showcase his talents. For now, he’s a reliable FLEX option with WR2 upside moving forward.

Cedric Tillman, WR, Browns

In his debut as the Browns’ primary WR1, Tillman took full advantage of his chances. He caught 7 of 9 targets for 99 yards and 2 touchdowns against the Ravens, earning the WR3 title. It’s important to note that Baltimore has the worst pass defense in the NFL and was without Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins national university manila courses offered. Nevertheless, Tillman proved he can be effective with Jameis Winston at the helm, who managed to avoid interceptions in Week 8. While Tillman didn’t lead his team in targets (that honor went to Elijah Moore), his skill set aligns perfectly with Winston’s aggressive, downfield play style, as seen in his game-winning 38-yard touchdown reception. tournament news Consider Tillman a strong FLEX candidate moving forward.

Cade Otton, TE, Buccaneers

With Mike Evans and Chris Godwin out, Otton has emerged as a crucial target for Baker Mayfield. Before Week 8, Otton hadn’t surpassed 55 receiving yards, but he achieved that milestone in his last two games. After a solid 8 receptions for 100 yards last week, he followed it with an impressive 10 receptions for 81 yards and 2 touchdowns in Week 8, earning TE1 status. Although Mayfield has thrown for over 330 yards in his last two games, none of the Bucs’ receivers have topped 65 yards. Mayfield seems to favor Otton or his running backs, as none of the other Bucs’ receivers have emerged as reliable targets. Otton should be considered a top-five tight end moving forward given his recent volume of 20 targets in two games.

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STOCK DOWN

Jayden Reed, WR, Packers

While I’m not suggesting you bench Reed outright, there are some factors to consider. He’s averaged just 31 receiving yards per game over his last three outings, has yet to gain rushing yards, and ranks WR56 during that timeframe. Despite his explosive potential, the Packers have been distributing targets more evenly among Tucker Kraft, Christian Watson, and Romeo Doubs, all of whom have scored touchdowns recently sabong betting online. If you manage Reed, keep an eye on Jordan Love’s injury status as the Packers face the Lions in Week 9. Should Love be ruled out, Malik Willis will take over for his third start of the season.

Jaylen Waddle, WR, Dolphins

Expectations were high for Waddle when Tua Tagovailoa returned from injury, rejuvenating the workload for the Dolphins’ skill players. Unfortunately, Waddle didn’t benefit as expected. In Tua’s return, he managed just 4 receptions on 6 targets for 45 yards, placing him as WR47 in Week 8. So far this season, Waddle has only one game exceeding 50 receiving yards, which came in Week 1 against a struggling Jaguars defense. While Tua’s return is promising, let’s face it—Waddle was drafted to fill WR2 slots in fantasy lineups. As of now, it seems his performance might be less consistent than anticipated, making him at best a FLEX option based on matchups.

Jordan Addison, WR, Vikings

While Addison’s stock wasn’t particularly high, it’s becoming increasingly unclear if he deserves a roster spot, especially in 10-team fantasy leagues. He has only scored one touchdown and has recorded just one game over 70 receiving yards this season. Sam Darnold averages a respectable 230 passing yards per game, but the target hierarchy prioritizes Justin Jefferson and a few others ahead of Addison. Currently, three Vikings are consistent starters, and Addison isn’t one of them. Last season, he closed with impressive stats of 70 receptions for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns, a level of performance that is disappointing compared to this year. In dynasty formats, it’s still worth holding onto Addison, but in redraft leagues, it may be wise to part ways as his consistency is lacking. Is it time to reassess your fantasy roster choices?