Who Should I Start? Dak Prescott or J.J. McCarthy

Thursday, January 1, 5:21 PM

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott will start Sunday's Week 18 regular-season finale against the division-rival New York Giants, according to Todd Archer of ESPN. However, Prescott is not sure if he will play the whole game, with the expectation being that Joe Milton III will get some action to close out the year. The Cowboys plan to play their starters this weekend, but it looks like they might not play a full game, which obviously now makes Prescott a shaky QB1 option for anyone still playing for a fantasy championship in Week 18. Prescott is having one of the best seasons of his career, and he's been especially efficient of late. The 32-year-old veteran currently leads the league in completions (397), passing attempts (589), passing yards (4,482), and yards per game (280.1) in 16 starts. This news makes Prescott much more risky in the season finale.

Thursday, January 1, 4:29 PM

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (hand) upgraded to a full practice on Thursday after being limited on Wednesday. McCarthy did not play in the Christmas Day win over the Detroit Lions in Week 17 due to a hairline fracture in his right hand. However, after putting in a full practice on Thursday, the second-year signal-caller is trending towards returning to play in the Week 18 regular-season finale against the division-rival Green Bay Packers on Sunday. McCarthy's return would send Max Brosmer back to the bench. If McCarthy is active this weekend, he'll try to end his 2025 season on a strong note after plenty of ups and downs in what was essentially his rookie campaign. At best, McCarthy should be considered a low-end QB2 option in superflex fantasy leagues if he suits up against the Packers.