Who Should I Start? Joe Flacco or Michael Penix Jr.

Wednesday, May 7, 2:57 PM

According to Zac Jackson of The Athletic, Kenny Pickett or Joe Flacco could be traded this summer, depending on how things go with the Cleveland Browns quarterback competition during the offseason. Cleveland notably selected Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel in Round 3 and Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders in Round 5 of the 2025 NFL Draft. While Deshaun Watson (Achilles) is not likely to be a factor in 2025, the additions of the rookies create a crowded position room. Jackson noted that Pickett's has $2.63 million that his "essentially" guaranteed by Cleveland, which could suggest Flacco is more likely to be dealt. The Browns are likely looking at picking a first-round quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft, so seeing what Gabriel and Sanders can do is a top priority rather than winning a few more games with one of the established veterans.

Sunday, January 5, 5:07 PM

Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. went 21-for-38 with 312 yards, two passing scores and an interception during their overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Penix added five yards and score on his lone carry. After averaging just 212.5 passing yards during the first two games of his career, Penix enjoyed a strong finish to the 2024 campaign, despite falling just short to the Panthers. The Washington product leaned on his top wideout Drake London as he threw to him 18 times. London also brought in both his touchdown passes and finished the day with 187 receiving yards. The 24-year-old has tallied four total touchdowns over his first three NFL games but sits with a 1-2 record, with both of his losses coming in overtime. Fantasy managers should expect Penix to be in the driver's seat to open as the team's starting QB in 2025.