Who Should I Start? Drake Maye or Cameron Ward

Saturday, August 9, 12:26 AM

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed three of his five pass attempts for 12 yards during Friday's preseason opener against the Washington Commanders. He also registered two carries, 16 rushing yards, and a rushing touchdown. The touchdown came on Maye's second and final drive of the game, as he scrambled into the end zone to put the Patriots ahead by two scores. On a less positive note, Maye did take a sack and lose a fumble in the preseason opener. Nevertheless, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about the former Tar Heel in his second pro season. Not only should he benefit from a new coaching regime led by Mike Vrabel and Josh McDaniels, but he'll also have a full season, offseason, and training camp under his belt. The blend of playing experience and quality coaching will serve Maye well. The same can be said of his rushing skills and New England's offseason additions, both in the trenches and among the offensive skill positions. Maye is currently being drafted as a mid-to-low QB2 in most fantasy leagues, but there's a legitimate chance that he finishes among the top 10 quarterbacks in fantasy points this year. As long as Maye continues to make strides this preseason, he should be a hot commodity in fantasy drafts given his rushing ability.

Wednesday, August 13, 12:11 PM

Atlanta Falcons reporter Joe Patrick of 929 The Game writes that Tennessee Titans rookie first-round quarterback Cameron Ward looked much better in joint practice with the Falcons on Wednesday and was taking more of what was available underneath while still connecting on some deep shots. Unexpectedly, the first overall pick in this year's NFL draft has been up and down during training camp and in the preseason opener last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The 23-year-old Miami product went 5-for-8 for 67 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions against the Bucs in the two drives that he played over the weekend. Most importantly, Ward continues to show a strong connection with receiver Calvin Ridley, who will no doubt be his favorite target in 2025. Ward is a much better long-term gamble in dynasty leagues than he will be in redraft formats for fantasy football.