McConkey's 2025 was a clear step back from his outstanding rookie campaign. He finished WR26 overall at 9.2 points per game, which was down from WR13 and 12.4 points per game in 2024. He caught 66 of 102 targets for 789 yards and six touchdowns in 16 games. Even in a disappointing year, the PFF underlying metrics paint a portrait of a solid possession receiver: 57th percentile route grade, 52nd percentile YPRR, and his 87th-percentile avoided tackle rate is genuinely good. The reason for optimism is the potential for more targets and a change in offensive philosophy with new OC Mike McDaniel at the helm. Keenan Allen's departure removes 100-plus targets from the Chargers' receiving corps, which might help McConkey even though he only saw a six-target drop from his rookie to sophomore season. McDaniel leans heavily on two-WR sets and that will typically help the two receivers who are on the field since they are now competing with a second tight end or a fullback for targets. McDaniel likes having a fullback on the field and this offseason, and the Chargers signed Alec Ingold right on cue. McConkey had a 92nd-percentile YPRR and an 82nd-percentile route grade as a rookie, so he’s done it before. With Allen out of the way and McDaniel calling the shots, I’m expecting a bounceback season into high-end WR2 territory.