Who Should I Start? C.J. Stroud or Jaxson Dart

Wednesday, July 16, 2:47 PM

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud had a sophomore slump following his fantastic rookie season in 2023 out of Ohio State. After throwing for more than 4,100 yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions in 15 games in Year 1, he regressed to just over 3,700 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 picks in Year 2. Entering 2025 in what could set him up for a lucrative contract extension, Stroud has trained hard to improve his physical fitness. "I've been working really hard on getting my body right -- losing body fat, trying to be faster, stronger," Stroud said. "And it went really well. ... [Working] pocket mobility, running out the pocket, throwing the rock. Everything kind of works hand in hand." Last season, Houston's offensive line struggled mightily, and Stroud was sacked 63 times, good for the second-most in the NFL behind only Caleb Williams (68). The offensive line could remain an issue after the team traded away franchise left tackle Laremy Tunsil, but sacks are often largely a quarterback stat, too. If Stroud can become more dynamic operating inside and outside of the pocket, it could create more downfield opportunities for pass-catchers Nico Collins, Christian Kirk, and Jayden Higgins, among others.

Friday, June 27, 12:52 PM

New York Giants rookie first-round quarterback Jaxson Dart had an "excellent" spring, according to head coach Brian Daboll. During offseason workouts, Dart confirmed the team's decision to trade back into the first round to select him, as Daboll was impressed with the way the Ole Miss product processed and retained information. However, it wasn't all good, as Dart also held onto the ball too long at times. The 22-year-old started taking spring reps with the third-team offense but was working with the second team two weeks in, behind Russell Wilson but ahead of Jameis Winston. The presence Wilson means that Dart will most likely be given time to develop in 2025, but there's a chance he makes starts later this year if Wilson tanks. The 6-foot-2, 224-pounder's rushing ability in college might not translate to the NFL, and he doesn't have any elite characteristics. Dart is merely a stash in dynasty/keeper formats in 2025.