Who Should I Start? J.J. McCarthy or Rome Odunze

Friday, August 29, 10:41 AM

Jeff Howe of The Athletic writes that the Minnesota Vikings' offense "has been scaled down with quarterback J.J. McCarthy taking over." Howe also notes that there's "measured optimism" in league circles around McCarthy's future, but that a "seamless transition" should not be expected. The 22-year-old is taking over for the departed Sam Darnold under center in Minnesota after Darnold led the Vikings to a 14-3 record in 2024. McCarthy has drawn favorable reviews for his play in training camp and the preseason, but there's always a level of unknown for a player who has not seen the field in an actual NFL game. McCarthy profiles as a high-end QB2 in redraft fantasy leagues.

Tuesday, September 2, 1:17 AM

Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze could be deployed in different spots throughout the offense, wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El told ESPN's Courtney Cronin. The second-year receiver received praise for his versatility and athleticism, with Randle El noting that he thinks Odunze is "going to have a big year." Meanwhile, Cronin said that Odunze is blossoming into quarterback Caleb Williams' top target. While it's hard to imagine Odunze truly surpassing DJ Moore on the depth chart, it's very possible we see a 1A and 1B situation within the Bears' receiver room. Only two teams targeted their wide receivers at a higher rate than the Bears (72.1 percent) last season, and that percentage could continue to increase under the guidance of new head coach and offensive mastermind Ben Johnson. Fantasy managers should be very excited about Odunze, who has legitimate WR2 upside this season.