Who Should I Start? J.J. McCarthy or Sam Hartman

Monday, April 21, 6:58 PM

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said on Monday that quarterback J.J. McCarthy (knee) is "full" with "no limitations" during the team's voluntary offseason program. McCarthy suffered a meniscus tear in his knee in the preseason last year that required surgery and caused him to miss his entire rookie campaign after being taken in the first round (10th overall) in 2024. But now that both Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones left in free agency, the 22-year-old signal-caller will be given the starting reigns in 2025. Minnesota could revisit signing Aaron Rodgers later this offseason if they aren't happy with McCarthy's progress, but that's probably unlikely. McCarthy will have one of the best receiver duos in the league with Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, but fantasy managers should still expect ups and downs in his first full season as the starter. Those holding McCarthy in dynasty leagues have to be pleased with how this offseason has played out.

Tuesday, January 28, 7:19 PM

The Washington Commanders announced on Tuesday that they signed quarterback Sam Hartman, running back Kazmeir Allen, defensive tackle Viliami Fehoko Jr., guard Julian Good-Jones, tight ends Tyree Jackson and Cole Turner, defensive end Andre Jones Jr., wide receiver Chris Moore and safety Ben Nikkel to Reserve/Futures deals. Hartman went undrafted in 2024 but eventually latched on with the Commanders for training camp. The 25-year-old signal-caller didn't make the 53-man active roster for the start of the regular season but did spend time on the active roster later in the season when backup Marcus Mariota landed on Injured Reserve. However, Hartman never saw action in a regular season game and is still looking to make his NFL debut. With Mariota set to become a free agent in March, the Commanders have opted to bring Hartman back as QB insurance this offseason.