Who Should I Start? Justin Herbert or Pat Bryant

Saturday, December 13, 12:00 AM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (hand) enters Week 15 facing a tough Kansas City Chiefs defense while still managing a fracture in his non-throwing hand. Last week's 22-19 overtime win over the Philadelphia Eagles saw Herbert complete just 12 of 26 passes for 139 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, along with losing one of his two fumbles and taking a record seven sacks. His passing volume is considerably limited, forcing him to rely on his legs, where he led the team with 66 rushing yards. The Chiefs are a top-10 defense, tied for third in allowed aDOT and third in passing touchdowns allowed, though they rank 24th in sack percentage. With offensive tackle Trey Pipkins doubtful with an ankle injury, the already-battered offensive line faces a significant challenge. Chiefs Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo should look to exploit the Chargers' weak offensive line, stack the box, and force Herbert to pass under pressure. RotoBaller ranks Herbert as QB22 this week. Given the injury, reduced passing volume, and tough road matchup, fantasy managers should temper expectations and consider Herbert a low-end QB2 for the week.

Wednesday, December 17, 6:03 PM

Denver Broncos rookie wide receiver Pat Bryant (hamstring) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, according to Zac Stevens of DNVR Sports. A hamstring issue kept Bryant from playing in the Week 15 win over the Green Bay Packers. Head coach Sean Payton said the 23-year-old could have played if it were a playoff game. Now that Bryant is back to practicing in full, he should be active this Sunday versus the visiting Jacksonville Jaguars, barring a setback in the next two days. Bryant's impending return is bad news for second-year wideout Troy Franklin, who caught all six of his targets for 85 yards and a touchdown against Green Bay. Before his hamstring injury, Bryant was seeing more involvement in Denver's passing attack, catching 12 of 17 targets for 156 yards in Weeks 11, 13, and 14. If he's back this weekend, Bryant profiles as a WR4/flex option in deeper fantasy formats. He has just one trip to the end zone in his first 13 NFL contests.