Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or Michael Penix Jr.

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Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.		 Rush.
Yds.		 Rush
TD		 Rec. Rec.
Yds.		 Rec
TD
25.8 24.0 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0

Justin Herbert News

Justin Herbert Throws One Touchdown in Disappointing Loss

Sunday, September 13, 7:33 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert went 17-for-27 for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in his team's shocking 26-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Herbert also had five carries for 29 rushing yards. The 28-year-old disappointed in the season opener, producing under 15 fantasy points, and will likely finish outside the top 20 scoring quarterbacks in Week 1. Herbert and the Chargers cut the lead to two late in the third quarter after finding Ladd McConkey on an eight-yard touchdown. However, the game spiraled for the Chargers after a punt was blocked and Herbert threw an interception late. Herbert will hope to bounce back at home in a favorable matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 2.

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Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.		 Rush.
Yds.		 Rush
TD		 Rec. Rec.
Yds.		 Rec
TD
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Michael Penix Jr. News

Michael Penix Jr. Expected to Return in Next Two Weeks?

Sunday, September 13, 5:29 AM

The Atlanta Falcons have been targeting Week 2 or Week 3 for quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (knee) to return, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Penix won't be ready in time for Sunday's season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but the door remains open for him to play within the next two weeks. He's working his way back from an ACL tear that ended his 2025 season in Week 11. Through nine games last year, he racked up 1,982 passing yards, nine passing touchdowns, and three interceptions. He also showed off his mobility with 70 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. Normally, Penix's absence would lead to a start for Tua Tagovailoa (oblique), but he has also been ruled out. As a result, the Falcons will start veteran third-string quarterback Cooper Rush (back spasms) against the Steelers and star pass rusher T.J. Watt.

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 25.8 points this week while Michael Penix Jr. is projected to score 0.0 points.