Who Should I Start? Deshaun Watson or Sam Howell

Tuesday, July 22, 9:10 PM

The Cleveland Browns have placed quarterback Deshaun Watson (Achilles) on the active/physically unable to perform list, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Pelissero notes that Watson's status for the 2025 season is "up in the air." Watson tore his right Achilles tendon in Week 7 of the 2024 season, then tore it again while rehabbing this past January. As a result, it's unlikely he factors for Cleveland this season. The Browns have a crowded QB room entering training camp. Veteran Joe Flacco and former first-round pick Kenny Pickett are the favorites to win the job for Week 1, while 2025 draft picks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders bring some added competition. Even when Watson returns to full strength, he may no longer be in the Browns' plans. The 29-year-old has struggled whenever he's been on the field for Cleveland.

Saturday, August 16, 6:53 PM

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Howell had a rough showing Saturday, completing just one pass from five attempts for 13 yards with a brutal interception. The veteran, who is on his third team in three years, is still the favorite to backup J.J. McCarthy, but hasn't been convincing during this preseason. Howell did add 14 yards on three rushes leading the offense without top receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but the Vikings also took long looks at Brett Rypien and Max Brosmer on Saturday. From a fantasy perspective, Howell is only roster-worthy as McCarthy insurance in deep formats.