Ladd McConkey Fantasy Week 13: Injury Report, Start/Sit Decisions & Projections

As the 2024 NFL season moves into its second half, Ladd McConkey has become a notable player in the fantasy football landscape. 

With Week 13 upon us, McConkey is preparing for a key matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Here’s everything fantasy managers need to know about his status, injury report, and what to expect in the upcoming game.

Is Ladd McConkey Available for Week 13?

Good news for fantasy football owners: Ladd McConkey is not listed on the injury report heading into Week 13. 

Absent any last-minute setbacks or changes, he is on track to play this weekend. McConkey’s health status is crucial for his fantasy value, and as of now, he appears fully prepared to take the field against the Atlanta Falcons.

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Start or Sit McConkey in Week 13?

When it comes to ranking Ladd McConkey for fantasy football, it’s clear that the rookie wide receiver has been one of the more intriguing players this season. 

Known for his ability to separate from defenders and make crucial contested catches, McConkey has been a reliable asset for the Los Angeles Chargers. 

However, his usage has been somewhat inconsistent. In his first 11 games, McConkey has been one of just three rookie wide receivers (along with Michael Thomas and Puka Nacua) to catch at least five passes in seven of those games. Despite his strong start, the lack of red zone opportunities has held him back. 

McConkey has gone four consecutive weeks without seeing a target inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, a stat that feels surprising given his talent and high 73.7% catch rate on short passes (five yards or fewer). 

Nonetheless, his playmaking ability is undeniable, and the matchup with Atlanta’s defense presents an opportunity to thrive. The Falcons have struggled mightily against slot receivers, ranking 28th in slot completion percentage allowed (74.6%). 

This could allow McConkey to have a solid game, especially if he’s targeted more frequently in the slot. 

Given these circumstances, McConkey is best viewed as a flex play for Week 13 with a chance to outperform expectations if his role expands.

Fantasy Projections for Ladd McConkey in Week 13

For Week 13, Ladd McConkey is projected to score around 14.3 fantasy points in PPR formats. This projection includes an estimated 2.8 receptions for 84.7 yards and 0.5 touchdowns. 

While the yardage total is relatively modest, McConkey’s ability to produce big plays can make him a valuable asset in formats that reward reception and yardage totals. 

He remains a solid option, especially with a favorable matchup against Atlanta’s defensive weaknesses.

Falcons’ Defense: What Does It Mean for McConkey?

The Atlanta Falcons’ defense has been underperforming this season, falling short of expectations after a decent showing in 2023. 

Despite some promising individual performances, the overall defense has struggled, particularly against the passing game. 

Although they’ve had a few strong outings, Atlanta ranks poorly against slot receivers and pass coverage in general, making them a vulnerable opponent for McConkey, who thrives in the short-to-mid-range passing game. 

The Falcons have allowed completion percentages of 74.6% to slot receivers, which should give McConkey ample opportunity to find success if he’s involved in the game plan. 

If Justin Herbert looks to exploit this weakness, McConkey could easily see several targets, putting him in line for a productive week.

Conclusion: Should You Start Ladd McConkey in Week 13?

Considering the matchups, McConkey is a viable flex option for Week 13. His ability to make plays in the slot combined with Atlanta’s defensive struggles creates an intriguing fantasy scenario. 

Although McConkey hasn’t seen many red-zone opportunities recently, his efficiency on short passes and potential for yardage make him a decent start. His upside, paired with a favorable matchup, makes him worth considering for your lineup this week. 

If you’re in need of a solid flex play with a chance for a breakout, McConkey is worth the risk.

People May Ask

Will Ladd McConkey play in Week 13?

Yes, McConkey is not listed on the injury report for Week 13 and is expected to play against the Atlanta Falcons.

Should I start Ladd McConkey in Week 13?

McConkey is a flex play for Week 13. Despite limited red zone opportunities recently, his ability to excel in the slot against a weak Falcons defense makes him worth starting in most formats.

What is Ladd McConkey’s fantasy projection for Week 13?

McConkey is projected to score approximately 14.3 fantasy points in PPR formats, which includes around 2.8 receptions, 84.7 yards, and 0.5 touchdowns.

How does Atlanta’s defense impact McConkey’s fantasy outlook?

Atlanta has struggled against slot receivers, ranking 28th in opponent completion percentage against the slot (74.6%), which should work in McConkey’s favor and provide more opportunities for him to produce.

Is McConkey expected to have a high target volume in Week 13?

While McConkey’s target volume has been inconsistent, the matchup against the Falcons’ weak pass defense could lead to a higher-than-usual number of targets, especially in the short-to-mid-range passing game.

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