Who Should I Start? Jake Haener or Tanner McKee

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.

Saturday, August 24, 9:28 PM

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Tanner McKee completed 13 of 21 passes for 115 yards, threw one interception, and lost a fumble during the team's 3-26 preseason loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The 24-year-old had been making a strong case to challenge Kenny Pickett for the No. 2 spot but ended the preseason on a low note with two turnovers. With that said, McKee still looked better as a passer than Pickett Saturday proving that he can push the ball downfield while the offense was inept with Pickett. The former Steelers starter will likely end up as the top backup to starter Jalen Hurts come Week 1. Still, McKee should have safely secured himself the emergency quarterback role with his overall strong preseason totals.