Who Should I Start? Baker Mayfield or J.J. McCarthy

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, 10:41 AM

Jeff Howe of The Athletic writes that the Minnesota Vikings' offense "has been scaled down with quarterback J.J. McCarthy taking over." Howe also notes that there's "measured optimism" in league circles around McCarthy's future, but that a "seamless transition" should not be expected. The 22-year-old is taking over for the departed Sam Darnold under center in Minnesota after Darnold led the Vikings to a 14-3 record in 2024. McCarthy has drawn favorable reviews for his play in training camp and the preseason, but there's always a level of unknown for a player who has not seen the field in an actual NFL game. McCarthy profiles as a high-end QB2 in redraft fantasy leagues.