Who Should I Start? Aaron Rodgers or Marcus Mariota

Friday, December 26, 8:16 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (left wrist) is listed on the team's injury report but practiced in full all week and does not carry an injury designation ahead of a Week 17 divisional showdown with the Cleveland Browns. Still, his status as the starter will be worth monitoring. The Green Bay Packers are set to host the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday, and if the Ravens lose, Pittsburgh will clinch the AFC North title before Sunday's contest kicks off. In that scenario, the Steelers could opt to start Mason Rudolph and rest Rodgers ahead of the playoffs. If Rodgers does play, he could struggle to provide fantasy value on the road against a Cleveland defense that has surrendered the fourth-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Additionally, he will be without his top wide receiver, as DK Metcalf begins a two-game suspension following an altercation with a fan in Week 16. Desperate fantasy managers could view Rodgers as a low-end QB2 if he starts, but this situation is best avoided if possible.

Tuesday, December 30, 9:54 AM

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota doesn't look like he'll be a great option for streaming at quarterback for his team's season finale. Coach Dan Quinn said Mariota did not participate in the team's walkthrough on Monday and is "still a stretch" to play in Week 18 against the Eagles. Quinn did still say there was hope the 32-year-old veteran would be able to play, but even if he does, it's a tough matchup for him against the strong Eagles defense, which will still be playing for playoff seeding. Mariota has played 11 games this season, throwing 10 touchdowns to go with seven interceptions and running for a score as well. Even if he recovers in time, he will be a high-risk play against Philly, so there are most likely better options available from your waiver wire. If Mariota is out, Josh Johnson will likely start once again, and he is not a great fantasy option either.