LaddMcConkey

News: 7 days agoMcConkey caught his only target for five yards in Saturday's preseason loss to the Rams.

Spin: McConkey made his debut for the Chargers against the team's cross-town rivals after sitting out last week's exhibition. The 34th selection in this year's draft didn't get a ton of burn with the rest of the starters Saturday, but he registered the first preseason catch of his career from the arm of backup quarterback Easton Stick. McConkey's fantasy upside in 2024 is tied to the rookie's ability to earn, maintain and flourish as one of starting quarterback Justin Herbert's top targets.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Though Puka Nacua did it just last season, it's not common historically that a second-day draft pick emerges as his team's go-to receiver. McConkey has a very real chance to do just that, considering the team's aggressive move to trade up for him at No. 34 overall, addressing what was an especially weak spot on the team. He's a polished route-runner who, despite a disappointing and injury-limited senior season at Georgia, excelled at the combine (4.39 40 time), a reminder of his elite speed and quickness. Expect McConkey to get an extended look during the preseason, with a high probability of emerging as Justin Herbert's preferred target before the 2024 season concludes. There's WR3 upside here.