Who Should I Start? Dorian Thompson-Robinson or Jake Haener

Tuesday, December 31, 7:39 PM

Cleveland Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson (calf) was listed as a limited participant in the first practice of Week 18 on Tuesday. Thompson-Robinson is dealing with a minor calf injury, but it shouldn't prevent him from being active in the regular-season finale this Saturday against the division-rival Baltimore Ravens. Jameis Winston (shoulder) was also limited, but he is expected to serve as the emergency third QB for the third straight week as Cleveland plays out the string in a disappointing season. DTR has not looked good while starting the last two games for the Browns, going 44-for-81 for 327 yards, no touchdowns and three interceptions while also losing a fumble. In a game that means nothing to the Browns, they are expected to play both Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe against Baltimore. Neither QB will be recommended in DFS lineups on Saturday.

Saturday, December 14, 5:19 AM

The New Orleans Saints will give quarterback Jake Haener the start on Sunday against the Washington Commanders. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi confirmed the nomination in comments to the media on Friday. Haener took the reins from Derek Carr (hand, concussion) in Week 14 after Carr injured himself late in the Saints' win over the New York Giants. He only had one dropback in that game, which resulted in a sack for a loss of 10 yards. This will be Haener's first start of the season. During the season, Haener appeared in seven games in 2024, going 14-for-29 for 177 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions. The Saints wide receiver corps has been depleted by injuries, limiting the inexperienced Haener's utility to fantasy managers in two-QB leagues who are desperate for their second option.