Who Should I Start? Jake Haener or Sean Clifford

Friday, October 18, 4:40 AM

New Orleans Saints quarterback Jake Haener was probably not expecting to be on the field for Thursday's game against the Denver Broncos. Even with Derek Carr (oblique) needing more time to heal, Spencer Rattler (hip) was the expected starter and it was made clear by the team that the rookie would be given a long leash. As it so happened, Rattler himself was forced to the sidelines after falling awkwardly when he was sacked with just over four minutes left in the game. The play resulted in a fumble that the Broncos returned for a touchdown, putting Haener under center on short notice. The second-year quarterback from Fresno State looked better than he did when he relieved Carr in Week 5. Haener completed 3-of-4 passes for 38 yards and a touchdown, the first of his career. It is too soon to tell if Rattler's injury is enough to keep him out of action but if he is held out of Week 8 then Haener would be the next man up. Whoever draws the start won't have it easy as the Saints next face the Los Angeles Chargers, who have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game in 2024.

Monday, September 9, 9:54 PM

Green Bay Packers quarterback Sean Clifford is set to be the backup option for the Week 2 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. It was uncertain who was going to start for the Packers with Jordan Love (ankle) facing a multiple week absence. Head coach Matt LaFleur cleared that up on Monday by naming Malik Willis the starter for Week 2. He also mentioned that Clifford is set to back him up, so he'll be elevated from the practice squad. Normally, someone becoming the backup isn't noteworthy, but this case is a little different. Willis has only been with the Packers for a few weeks and has yet to prove himself at the professional level. Clifford has been with the Packers for a full season and he should know the offensive scheme fairly well. It wouldn't be shocking to see the Packers turn to Clifford if Willis fails to impress them. Fantasy managers don't need to be jumping at the waiver wire to grab the former fifth-round pick. However, it wouldn't be shocking if Clifford does get snaps at some point in the next few weeks. Neither quarterback is going to be a viable fantasy option in most formats.