Who Should I Start? Jameis Winston or Marcus Mariota

Sunday, September 7, 11:55 AM

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart is active and will operate as the team's backup for Week 1 against the Washington Commanders. Meanwhile, Jameis Winston is inactive as the team's emergency third quarterback. This depth chart decision from the coaching staff aligns with recent rumors that indicated Dart may have earned the backup job and could even make his NFL debut in Week 1. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport recently noted that the Giants have a package of plays ready for Dart, so it's possible that he could relieve starter Russell Wilson for a handful of snaps on Sunday afternoon. Still, Dart is merely a dynasty stash at this point, as he'd need to be inserted as the full-time starter before warranting any interest in redraft leagues. Meanwhile, Winston should be left on waivers in all leagues.

Monday, September 15, 3:41 PM

If Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (knee) cannot play in Week 3, backup Marcus Mariota could be forced into action against his old team, the Las Vegas Raiders. After undergoing an MRI exam following last Thursday night's loss to the Green Bay Packers, Daniels was diagnosed with a sprained knee, which puts his availability for Week 3 this Sunday in question. Daniels' injury isn't considered a long-term one, but his status is in doubt for this weekend. The Commanders surely will play it safe with the 24-year-old Daniels. Mariota, 31, hasn't started in the NFL since he made 13 starts with the Atlanta Falcons in 2023. Since then, he's appeared in six games with the Philadelphia Eagles and Commanders, throwing for 528 yards, five touchdowns, and a pick on 67 pass attempts. Mariota wasn't bad in spot duty in 2024 with Washington, although he'd be a low-upside, low-end QB2 in superflex leagues in Week 3 if he makes the start against the Raiders.