Who Should I Start? Jameis Winston or Patrick Mahomes

Wednesday, December 25, 9:10 PM

Cleveland Browns quarterbacks Dorian Thompson-Robinson (calf) and Jameis Winston (right shoulder) were limited participants during practice on Wednesday. The Browns' quarterback problems have been no secret this year, and it now appears that a pair of injuries have further complicated the situation. Thompson-Robinson earned his first start of the season last week, completing 20 of 34 pass attempts for 157 yards, zero touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also rushed for 32 yards. Most of his positive momentum came in garbage time, as the 25-year-old didn't inspire much confidence in his playing ability and the Browns' overall offensive performance. Still, it appears he remains the preferred option for the job over Winston, who tossed eight interceptions over his final three games under center. Injuries could certainly impact the starting quarterback decision for Week 17 against the Miami Dolphins, but assuming both are healthy, Thompson-Robinson will likely be named the team's primary quarterback for the second week in a row. We can't rule out snaps for Bailey Zappe, either. The 25-year-old Western Kentucky product was active as Thompson-Robinson's backup last week since Winston was inactive as the emergency third quarterback. None of these players have legitimate fantasy appeal long-term.

Thursday, December 26, 4:13 AM

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes completed 29 of 38 pass attempts (76%) for 320 yards and three touchdowns in the 29-10 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Mahomes passed for over 300 yards and multiple touchdowns for the first time this year in Week 17. The veteran quarterback also rushed once for 12 yards in this game. After leading the league in interceptions to begin the year, Mahomes has now gone six straight games without a turnover. With this win, the Chiefs have officially locked up the top seed in the AFC. Given that the team has nothing to gain by playing their starters next week, it should be assumed that we have seen the last of Mahomes in the regular season. That said, Mahomes did tell the media that he will prepare to start in Week 18 against the Broncos until Coach Andy Reid says otherwise.