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The Dallas Renegades (2-2) suffered a critical blow in Week 4 when Landry Jones suffered a torn MCL against the Houston Roughnecks. He’s expected to return this season, but won’t play against the New York Guardians (2-2) on Saturday. We broke down the best Draftkings Showdown strategies for the matchup here.
Captain Obvious
Cameron Artis-Payne, RB, Renegades ($13,200)
Philip Nelson ($12,900/$8,600) will start under center for Dallas and only tallied 7 DKFP in Week 1. His ability to make the most of the Renegades’ best pass catchers is questionable, making Cameron-Artis Payne essential to the offense. Artis-Payne has blossomed into a star since only getting two carries in his season debut and has totaled 216 rushing yards on 5.3 yards per carry. He’s rushed for two touchdowns and has been a consistent receiver out of the backfield as well.
Captain Courageous
Donald Parham, TE/WR, Renegades ($15,000)
Parham has scored at least one touchdown in each of his last three appearances, but all of his touchdown receptions have come from Jones. Nevertheless, his 6’8” frame makes him a serious threat to score in the red zone, and it’s not hard to get him the ball. If Nelson realizes how valuable of an asset Parham can be, he could continue his touchdown streak against the Guardians, who have been the XFL’s worst fantasy defenders of the tight end position.
Flex Men
Luis Perez, QB, Renegades ($8,200)
Perez made his first career XFL start in Week 4 and came out with a win. Although he was more of a game manager and only tallied 10 DKFP, he could continue to improve while getting more reps with the first team. There’s no guarantee Perez will start at this point, as Week 1 starter Matt McGloin ($12,600/$8,400) has been splitting reps with him and could return from a rib injury in Week 5. Perez has been accurate and composed so far though, so New York could choose to go with the hot hand.
Mekale McKay, WR, Guardians ($7,400)
McKay notched his first touchdown catch of the season courtesy of Perez in Week 4. He tied a season high 9 DKFP by hauling in two receptions for 12 yards and a score. The Guardians don’t have much going for them at wideout, but McKay and Colby Pearson ($6,800) have been the most consistent pass catchers for the stagnant offense. Both should be solid flex options.