Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Jalen Hurts

Friday, November 21, 11:00 AM

With Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (elbow) missing time due to both knee and elbow injuries, backup QB Marcus Mariota has gotten extended playing time in 2025. Across seven games (five starts) this season, the 32-year-old has completed 65.7% of his pass attempts for 1,065 yards, seven touchdowns, and five interceptions. Mariota also brings some juice with his legs, rushing for 193 yards and a touchdown on 27 attempts. However, Daniels was able to avoid surgery on his dislocated left elbow, which could allow him to return to the field shortly after the Commanders' Week 12 bye. At the same time, Washington is out of the playoff mix with a 3-8 record, so the team could choose to shut Daniels down and play for 2026. Still, the Commanders will face one of the NFL's best defenses in the Denver Broncos in Week 13. Mariota does not profile as a starting fantasy QB option in Week 13, which may be his last chance to start before Daniels returns.

Thursday, November 27, 12:57 AM

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts' Week 12 game against the Cowboys was the second time this season he's had multiple rushing touchdowns in a single game-the other being in Week 1 against the Cowboys. He could resort to using his legs some more in his upcoming meeting with the Bears on Friday, as Chicago allows the fifth-most rushing yards per game this season (138.1). The Bears are also tied for the third-most passing touchdowns allowed, giving up 22 in 11 contests. Hurts may be without star receiver DeVonta Smith (shoulder/chest/illness) this week, but he tends to spread the ball around anyway. In an effort to bounce back from the recent loss and with the high stakes of being up against a top threat in the NFC, Hurts should be on his A-game in this favorable matchup. He's a high-end QB1 in Week 13.