Who Should I Start? Baker Mayfield or C.J. Stroud

Saturday, August 30, 10:38 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield appears to be in line for a new contract this offseason, according to a report from The Athletic's Jeff Howe. The Buccaneers signed Mayfield to what is now viewed as a discounted three-year, $100 million deal in March 2024. Mayfield responded by setting career-high marks in completions (407), passing yards (4,500), and touchdowns (41), and led the Buccaneers to an NFC South title. He also ran for more yards (378) than ever before in his career. Mayfield and the Tampa Bay front office have made it clear they want to continue this relationship long-term, so it should come as no surprise to see Mayfield earn a raise before entering the final year of his current contract. Mayfield ranks as RotoBaller's QB8 in redraft leagues this season.

Friday, August 29, 9:57 PM

According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, the Houston Texans have been "encouraged with the new group that is charged with protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud." Houston traded left tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders during the offseason. Fortunately, Aireontae Ersery "has gotten off to a strong start to pace" the team's revamped protection unit. Houston's offensive line was among the worst in the National Football League in 2024. While the latest update from Howe is encouraging, things must change drastically or Stroud could continue to suffer. The signal-caller took a step back in his sophomore campaign, finishing by throwing for 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 picks. He also failed to find the end zone on the run after doing so three times in 2023. With that said, wide receiver Tank Dell (knee) isn't expected back anytime soon, and Stefon Diggs is now a New England Patriot. As a result, Stroud may not be the safest fantasy quarterback compared to some, although he is still worth starting in most formats, assuming his production doesn't decrease even more moving forward. .