Who Should I Start? Desmond Ridder or Drake Maye

Tuesday, September 16, 5:09 PM

The Minnesota Vikings signed free-agent quarterback Desmond Ridder to their 53-man roster on Monday, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The Vikings need some depth at the QB position with J.J. McCarthy out two to four weeks after suffering a high-ankle sprain in the Sunday night loss to the Atlanta Falcons. With McCarthy out for Week 3 against the Cincinnati Bengals and possibly beyond, veteran Carson Wentz will step into starting duties under center for Minnesota, with undrafted rookie Max Brosmer serving as his backup. Given Brosmer's lack of experience in the NFL, it wouldn't be a surprise to see Ridder be elevated to the No. 2 role sooner than later once he learns the offense. Ridder, a third-round pick in 2022 by the Falcons, quickly wore out his welcome in Atlanta and spent last year as the backup for the Las Vegas Raiders.

Saturday, November 1, 9:35 AM

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has been one of the best storylines this season, completing more than 75 percent of his passes for 2,026 yards, 15 touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also has 250 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. The UNC product has taken an extraordinary leap in his second pro season, leading the Patriots to a 6-2 record while entering his name into the MVP race. From a fantasy perspective, Maye is the overall QB2 and has established himself as a must-start player every week, regardless of matchup. That remains the case in Week 9 against the Atlanta Falcons. Even though Atlanta has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks, Maye should capitalize on a home matchup against a struggling Falcons squad. After all, Atlanta surrendered four touchdowns to Tua Tagovailoa last week. Maye is a strong, mid-range QB1 option once again.