Who Should I Start? Baker Mayfield or Matthew Golden

Thursday, January 1, 2:43 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (knee, shoulder) practiced in full for the second straight day on Thursday and has been cleared to play in Saturday's Week 18 regular-season finale against the division-rival Carolina Panthers. Mayfield is nursing knee and shoulder injuries, but he will be active as the Bucs look to win the NFC South this weekend with a win over Carolina and a loss by the Falcons to the Saints. The 30-year-old won't be a very inspiring QB1 option for fantasy managers still playing for something in Week 18, although he is coming off a 346-yard passing effort with two touchdowns in last week's loss to the Miami Dolphins. In the first meeting against the Panthers two weeks ago, Mayfield threw for only 145 yards with a touchdown and an interception. After four straight games without multiple passing TDs, Mayfield has two TD passes in two of his last three games.

Sunday, January 11, 9:42 PM

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Matthew Golden caught four of his five targets for 84 yards and one touchdown during Saturday's Wild Card loss against the Chicago Bears. Golden was disappointing during the regular season, amassing just 29 catches and 361 yards during his rookie season, but he showed up when it mattered most, scoring the first touchdown of his pro career. However, his effort came up short as Green Bay blew a three-score lead and lost to the Bears for the second time in one month. Golden will look to shake off this year's inconsistencies and carry momentum into his second pro season in 2026. Green Bay has a crowded receiver room, but he could be headed for increased opportunities if Romeo Doubs departs in free agency.