Fantasy Football Player Notes

Ladd McConkey emerged in his third season at Georgia as a redshirt sophomore, achieving 762 receiving yards and seven touchdowns with a 20% dominator rating, despite a late breakout at 21 years old. Competing for targets with Brock Bowers, one of college football's top tight ends, and ahead of 2024 second-round pick AD Mitchell on the depth chart, McConkey demonstrated his capability, especially in the two games without Bowers in 2023, posting his highest yardage totals. Although injuries impacted his final year's stats, he remained efficient, ranking 8th nationally in yards per route run (3.26). Known for his quickness and polished route-running rather than size, McConkey's agility and speed, highlighted by a sub-4.4 40-yard dash at the combine, make him a promising professional prospect. Drafted by the Chargers who traded up in Round 2, he enters a team with a weak WR corps, positioning him to potentially lead in targets.

Joshua Palmer emerged as a significant contributor for the Chargers last season, especially when Mike Williams and Keenan Allen were sidelined. His performance, particularly in games without Williams, showcased his potential, averaging 10.6 fantasy points per game. Even in the absence of both WRs and QB1 Justin Herbert, Palmer maintained a strong target share and production, averaging 11.5 points per game. While the Chargers are likely to draft a wide receiver, Palmer remains a solid in-house option.

Quentin Johnston's rookie season left much to be desired, with disappointing production. Despite the Chargers' offseason moves opening up opportunities, including the departure of key receivers, Johnston failed to capitalize on his chances. With Ladd McConkey drafted early, Johnston's future role in the offense becomes uncertain. While it may be premature to label him a bust after just one season, his lack of impact in Year 1 (61st among 63 qualifying WRs in yards per route run) raises red flags for his fantasy value moving forward.

The 27-year-old is hitting free agency (again) after playing a complimentary role with the Panthers in 2023. Chark caught a long pass that was initially ruled a TD in Week 18, but it was overturned to a fumble through the end zone. Woof. He is a free agent in 2024 and will likely land on a new team as a complimentary deep threat who misses games with injuries.
Chark was the WR58 overall in 2023, averaging 6.5 points per game (65th). He led the Panthers in TDs (5) and posted over 1,000 air yards on a team-high 31% air yards share (33rd). No player had more air yards with fewer targets (66) than Chark despite two missed games. D.J. Chark signed with the Chargers after the NFL Draft to a one-year deal worth $5 million.

Brenden Rice brings a compelling combination of size, athleticism, and football pedigree to the wide receiver position, standing out with his 6'3" frame and impressive physical presence. While his collegiate journey included a breakout season at Colorado and a productive senior year at USC, his final season dominator rating fell slightly below expectations. Nevertheless, Rice's ability to make an impact in the red zone and his proficiency in catching touchdowns highlight his potential as a scoring threat at the next level. His comparison to Josh Palmer underscores the importance of his quarterback and offensive situation in maximizing his impact on the field. Joining the Chargers in the seventh round presents Rice with an opportunity to continue his development and carve out a role in their offense.