Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or Michael Penix Jr.
Week 1 Projections
| Fant. Pts. |
Rush. Yds. |
Rush TD |
Rec. | Rec. Yds. |
Rec TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24.4 | 21.7 | 0.2 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Justin Herbert News
Saturday, August 22, 8:46 AM
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert got the start in Thursday's 41-17 preseason loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Herbert was removed after a quick three-and-out on the team's opening drive. The 28-year-old completed one of two passing attempts for nine yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions. He was able to connect to Charlie Kolar on his first pass attempt but was unable to connect with Ladd McConkey on third down to extend the drive. Chargers team reporter Eric Smith noted that Harbaugh planned for Herbert to play only one drive, which means he didn't consider putting him back out for a second drive. This was Herbert's first action this preseason and his first time playing under new OC Mike McDaniel in a game. He will have to continue getting comfortable in a new offense through practice reps since the team is expected to limit his usage in their preseason finale next week against the Los Angeles Rams.
Week 1 Projections
| Fant. Pts. |
Rush. Yds. |
Rush TD |
Rec. | Rec. Yds. |
Rec TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.3 | 3.5 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 |
Michael Penix Jr. News
Monday, August 24, 5:17 PM
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. has a chance to win the starting job, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Rapoport said the Falcons' goal was to have veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa start the season right away, but Tagovailoa's lackluster play in training camp and the preseason opens the door for Penix to start. "This is Michael Penix's job for the taking." Penix was the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and completed under 60% of his passes for 2,719 yards, with 12 touchdowns and six interceptions in 12 games. Penix tore his ACL late last season and was recently cleared to participate in 11-on-11 drills at practice. If Penix surges late and Tagovailoa continues to struggle, watch for the Falcons to start the 2026 season with the third-year quarterback.
Justin Herbert vs. Michael Penix Jr.
Still trying to decide between Herbert and Penix Jr.? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Justin Herbert is projected to score 24.4 points this week while Michael Penix Jr. is projected to score 8.3 points.
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