Who Should I Start? Cooper Rush or Kenny Pickett

Saturday, August 23, 4:01 PM

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush had a perfect passing day in the 30-3 preseason win over the Washington Commanders, completing all five passes for 59 yards and zero touchdowns. This outing marked a bright spot in what has otherwise been an unimpressive preseason for the 31-year-old, who previously spent eight seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. He ends the preseason with 27 completions on 39 attempts for 273 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. Rush is currently listed as the backup quarterback to Lamar Jackson. However, his overall subpar preseason, coupled with Devin Leary's unimpressive play, raises concerns about the Ravens' backup quarterback situation should anything happen to Jackson. Despite the statistical line in this game, it should have no significant impact on Rush's fantasy value as he remains off the radar in redraft leagues.

Thursday, September 4, 9:39 AM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kenny Pickett (hamstring) logged a full practice on Wednesday and is cleared to suit up in Week 1 when the Raiders face the New England Patriots. Pickett began the offseason with the Cleveland Browns but was traded to the Raiders in exchange for a fifth-round pick. The former first-round pick has been dealing with a hamstring injury, but appears to have moved past it. Fantasy managers should expect Pickett to operate as the backup option to Geno Smith. Currently, Aidan O'Connell (wrist) is on the injured reserve, which means Pickett will likely be given all of those opportunities under center if Smith were to miss time. Last season, Pickett spent time as Jalen Hurts' backup in Philadelphia but was deployed as a starter across his first two seasons in Pittsburgh. He is only worth a look in deeper superflex leagues if he were to take over the starting job.