Who Should I Start? Aaron Rodgers or J.J. McCarthy
Week 1 Projections
| Fant. Pts. |
Rush. Yds. |
Rush TD |
Rec. | Rec. Yds. |
Rec TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21.8 | 6.2 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Aaron Rodgers News
Saturday, September 5, 2:45 PM
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has emerged as a viable fantasy option in deeper leagues this season. Rodgers lacks true rushing upside, and he's certainly past his peak even as a passer. After all, he has confirmed that the 2026 season will be his last. Nevertheless, he continues to hold deep-league appeal, given the Steelers' improved wide receiver room. Pittsburgh made a diligent effort to improve its pass-catching unit this offseason, acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. from the Indianapolis Colts. Pittman is coming off a WR18 finish, fueled by 80 catches and seven touchdowns. The unit also features DK Metcalf, who is back for his second year in Pittsburgh after catching 59 passes for 850 yards and six touchdowns in 2025. Beyond the receiver room, Rodgers should also get support in the passing game from Jaylen Warren and Pat Freiermuth. As it stands, the veteran quarterback ranks as the QB27 in RotoBaller's latest redraft rankings. He currently has an ADP of 218.7, which means he'll be available on the waiver wire in many leagues.
Week 1 Projections
| Fant. Pts. |
Rush. Yds. |
Rush TD |
Rec. | Rec. Yds. |
Rec TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 | 1.3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
J.J. McCarthy News
Wednesday, September 2, 10:15 AM
Minnesota Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley said on Wednesday that he expects quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle), who has practiced in full the last two days, to be on the Week 1 roster, according to Alec Lewis of The Athletic. However, Teasley would not discuss whether McCarthy would be the backup to starter Kyler Murray over veteran Carson Wentz. The 23-year-old former 10th overall pick from Michigan in 2024 injured his ankle in the second preseason game and then was held out of the preseason finale, leading to speculation that the Vikings might cut McCarthy altogether if they could not find a trade partner for him. Not only will he be on the Week 1 roster, but McCarthy could still win the backup job now that he appears to be recovered from his ankle injury. McCarthy missed his entire rookie season after having knee surgery, and he flopped as the full-time starter in 2025, throwing for 1,632 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions in only 10 games while dealing with multiple injuries. His dynasty/keeper stock is at an all-time low going into the start of the 2026 season.
Aaron Rodgers vs. J.J. McCarthy
Still trying to decide between Rodgers and McCarthy? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Aaron Rodgers is projected to score 21.8 points this week while J.J. McCarthy is projected to score 1.5 points.
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