Who Should I Start? James Conner or Drake Maye

Thursday, May 29, 1:04 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (knee) took part in voluntary organized team activities on Wednesday. "I'm ready," Conner said. "We ain't doing this forever." Conner injured his right knee in Week 16 of last year and had six touches before being pulled in Week 17. The Cardinals placed him on Injured Reserve for the Week 18 regular-season finale, but the 30-year-old veteran appears to be fine now and ready to go for the start of the 2025 season this fall. He racked up a career-high 1,518 scrimmage yards on 236 carries while catching 47 of 55 targets in 2024. It was the healthiest Conner had been in his career, so fantasy managers definitely should expect some more missed time given his age and physical running style. For now, he's still being considered a workhorse back in Arizona, but more injuries could give Trey Benson more of a role eventually.

Saturday, August 9, 12:26 AM

New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye completed three of his five pass attempts for 12 yards during Friday's preseason opener against the Washington Commanders. He also registered two carries, 16 rushing yards, and a rushing touchdown. The touchdown came on Maye's second and final drive of the game, as he scrambled into the end zone to put the Patriots ahead by two scores. On a less positive note, Maye did take a sack and lose a fumble in the preseason opener. Nevertheless, there are plenty of reasons to be excited about the former Tar Heel in his second pro season. Not only should he benefit from a new coaching regime led by Mike Vrabel and Josh McDaniels, but he'll also have a full season, offseason, and training camp under his belt. The blend of playing experience and quality coaching will serve Maye well. The same can be said of his rushing skills and New England's offseason additions, both in the trenches and among the offensive skill positions. Maye is currently being drafted as a mid-to-low QB2 in most fantasy leagues, but there's a legitimate chance that he finishes among the top 10 quarterbacks in fantasy points this year. As long as Maye continues to make strides this preseason, he should be a hot commodity in fantasy drafts given his rushing ability.