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Three wide receivers who will bounce back in Week 4
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey. Amanda Perobelli/Reuters via Imagn Images

Three wide receivers who will bounce back in Week 4

In an unconventional week of NFL football that saw defenses and special teams contribute more than usual, it wasn't surprising to see some of the league's best receivers put up underwhelming stat lines.

Several premier pass-catchers, including the Philadelphia Eagles' A.J. Brown and the New York Jets' Garrett Wilson, returned to form in Week 3 after duds in the contest prior. But others continued to disappoint as some stars are still struggling to make an impact in the new season.

That could all change next week, though, as defenses can only hold back Pro Bowl-caliber receivers for so long. 

Here are three receivers due to bounce back in Week 4.

Ladd McConkey, Los Angeles Chargers

Week 3 vs. DEN: Four receptions, 41 yards

After serving as Justin Herbert's clear top receiver as a rookie in 2024, McConkey has been somewhat of an afterthought in the Los Angeles Chargers' offense this season. 

Herbert is throwing far more than he did last year, yet McConkey has failed to put his stamp on any of the team's three wins so far. Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston have emerged as the quarterback's top options early on, but McConkey could reassert himself as L.A.'s WR1 as early as Week 4.

The Chargers face what should be a winnable matchup against rookie gunslinger Jaxson Dart and the New York Giants in Week 4. The Giants allowed Patrick Mahomes to spread the ball all over the field — six different Kansas City receivers had at least three catches on "Sunday Night Football" — so McConkey should be able to find success even if his teammates do, too. 

Drake London, Atlanta Falcons

Week 3 at CAR: Five receptions, 55 yards

London wasn't involved much in the Atlanta Falcons' Week 3 bout against the Carolina Panthers, but not for the reasons most would expect. 

Carolina blew the top off of a contest that was expected to easily go Atlanta's way. Even with the negative game script, though, London managed only a modest stat line. However, a personnel change could go a long way in getting the 24-year-old back on track. 

Kirk Cousins was subbed in during the Falcons' final drive of the blowout. While this isn't indicative of the team's plans, starting Cousins would give London a higher ceiling each week. In what should be a shootout against the Washington Commanders in Week 4, London should be heavily involved regardless of who is under center.

Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals 

Week 3 vs. SF: Three receptions, 44 yards

The second-year breakout hasn't come for Harrison Jr. yet. The former Ohio State Buckeye impressed with 71 yards and a touchdown in Week 1, but his recent performances have left plenty to be desired.

It's certainly not all on Harrison. The Arizona Cardinals offense grinds to a slog at times, as it did against the San Francisco 49ers until the fourth quarter on Sunday. Kyler Murray has thrown for over 200 yards just once in three games, not leaving much opportunity for a standout performance from his top receiver. 

With starting running back James Conner now sidelined for the rest of the season, Arizona will be forced to open up the offense more. That means a more prominent role for Harrison, who should have a real chance to shine on "Thursday Night Football" against the Seattle Seahawks.

Dylan Edenfield

Dylan Edenfield has covered professional sports for several different outlets over the last eight years. As a Michigan native, he brings expertise on Detroit and Michigan sports. Dylan has spent most of his career covering the NBA, but is also passionate about baseball and football

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