Who Should I Start? J.J. McCarthy or Shedeur Sanders

Friday, January 2, 4:43 PM

Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (hand) will start in Week 18's regular-season finale against the division-rival Green Bay Packers, according to Dane Mizutani of the Pioneer Press. McCarthy was a full participant in practice on Thursday and Friday and will return to action after missing Week 17's matchup against the Detroit Lions on Christmas Day due to a hairline fracture in his right hand. The second-year quarterback has had an up-and-down season after missing his entire rookie year with a torn meniscus. In nine games this season, the Michigan product has completed 57.3% of his passes for 1,450 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions while adding 35 carries for 174 yards and four touchdowns on the ground. He'll look to finish out the season strong and profiles as a low-end QB2 option in superflex leagues in Week 18 in his return.

Sunday, December 21, 4:59 PM

Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders completed 20 of his 29 pass attempts for 157 yards and one touchdown, but threw two interceptions in Sunday's 23-20 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Sanders managed to overcome an injured pinky finger on his throwing hand, which forced him out of the game for a few plays, and completed 69% of his passes, his best passing completion percentage of the year. Most notably, the rookie play caller had four rushes for 49 yards, also a season high. If Sanders continues to gain yards on the ground, which helps to support his fantasy points floor, he may become a more appealing deep league Superflex option. Looking ahead, the Browns will host the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17, whose defense gives up the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks for the year.