"Beast!": NFL fans hype Ladd McConkey as Chargers WR sets new rookie record

Los Angeles Chargers rookie wide receiver Ladd McConkey made franchise history in the Week 17 clash against the New England Patriots on Saturday. With his third catch, McConkey tallied his 72nd reception of the season, surpassing Keenan Allen’s 2013 rookie record of 71 receptions.

Consequently, NFL fans started hyping up McConkey once the clip of the moment started doing rounds on X (formerly Twitter).

"Beast," a fan wrote.

"Such an easy projection. Ladd is an absolute stud," another fan commented.

A third fan hailed the rookie, writing,

"Ladd is the LAD! ATTA BOY."

More NFL fans joined in the chorus.

With one more regular-season game left against the Las Vegas Raiders, McConkey can build on his record further. He was drafted 34th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft after the Los Angeles Chargers strategically traded up.

Rookie WR Ladd McConkey is a reliable target in Los Angeles Chargers

Ladd McConkey's play on his team's offense has been quite evident this season. Similarly, the Week 17 game against the Patriots was no different. He recorded eight receptions for 94 yards and two TDs.

Today's performance was just a glimpse of McConkey's debut season.

Until now, with 1,054 receiving yards and seven touchdowns, he has stepped into a leadership role within the receiving corp. He has quickly developed into QB Justin Herbert’s most trusted target.

Two days ago, Patriots coach Jerod Mayo only had good things to say about McConkey.

"We did some work on him. A guy that can get open versus man-to-man coverage,” Mayo said (via Sports Illustrated). “Good against zone as well. He's definitely a player you've gotta keep your eye on."

With the Los Angeles Chargers having a 10-6 record and a playoff spot on the horizon, the rookie WR's consistency could be a deal breaker in how far his team advances.