Many fantasy football managers like the strategy of waiting for a quarterback. That way, they can load up their roster at other critical positions before selecting their signal caller. But, with so many great quarterbacks in the league, it can be challenging to decide who to pick. Also, 2QB/Superflex leagues are becoming more popular, which means as many as 24 quarterbacks will be starting in a 12-team league. This article will decide between three veteran quarterbacks in the twilight of their careers. Kirk Cousins, Aaron Rodgers, and Matthew Stafford will all be drafted in Superflex leagues and could be viable backups in standard leagues. Without further ado, here is a reason to draft each player and who I would select if I were on the clock.
Kirk Cousins
Kirk Cousins was one of the few veteran quarterbacks who changed teams this offseason. For the first time since 2018, Cousins will not be playing for the Minnesota Vikings. But, some would say he has found himself in a better position for fantasy purposes. Cousins joins a Falcons team full of young stars. He will throw the ball to Drake London and Kyle Pitts and handing off to Bijan Robinson. Last season, Cousins suffered the first significant injury of his career; he tore his Achilles tendon in Week 8 but will be ready to begin the 2024 season. Cousins has been one of the most consistent fantasy quarterbacks during his career. From 2015 to 2023, Cousins has averaged at least 16.3 fantasy points per game. There is no reason to think Cousins cannot post another quality fantasy season. Many people are worried about a 36-year-old coming back from a major surgery. But Cousins has looked good during training camp and has seemingly put that injury behind him.
Aaron Rodgers
Another quarterback coming off an Achilles tear is the New York Jets' Aaron Rodgers. He played only four snaps last season before suffering the injury and even tried to return at the end of last season. It is safe to say Rodgers will be 100% at the start of the 2024 season and hoping for a great inaugural season as a Jet. What makes Rodgers enticing in fantasy is the Jets' offense. He will throw the ball to Garrett Wilson, one of the best young receivers in football. Also, he has an elite running back in the backfield in Breece Hall. Rodgers has been an elite fantasy quarterback during his career. When healthy, he has finished outside the top 10 fantasy quarterbacks only once in his career (2022). Even at 40 years old, Rodgers can put up an elite statistical season. He and Cousins are in the same boat coming in 2024, so would you instead take the younger player in Cousins or the four-time MVP in Rodgers? That is what managers must ask themselves.
Matthew Stafford
Matthew Stafford is the only quarterback not coming off an injury of the three. He was productive last season, playing 15 games and throwing for 3,965 yards and 24 touchdowns with 11 interceptions. One issue with Stafford is that he is prone to injury and is not getting any younger. Entering his age 36 season, Stafford has played a full season in only three of his last five years. He is a part of a potent Rams offense with two elite pass catchers. Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua will help Stafford reach his potential as a fantasy quarterback. Also, having Sean McVay as offensive coordinator will consistently put the Rams' offense in a position to succeed. Stafford likely will not get back to his peak as a passer, throwing for 4,000+ yards and 30+ touchdowns, but he is in a good spot to return value on his ADP in fantasy.
Who would I draft?
It may be bold to say this, but I would take Rodgers in this scenario. I feel good about his health, having a whole year to recover from the Achilles injury, and I think he is looking to make a statement in his first full season as a Jet. Rodgers has an elite WR1 in Garrett Wilson, who he can rely on like he did with Davante Adams during his Packers days. The Jets are expected to have a balanced offense as they want to feature Breece Hall plenty in the run game. Currently being drafted as the QB19, Rodgers should easily outperform his ADP and have a chance at a 4,000+ yard and 30+ touchdown season.
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