Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Jarrett Stidham

Wednesday, September 17, 11:50 AM

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota is scheduled to meet with the media on Wednesday in place of Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (knee), per ESPN's John Keim. Keim notes that this does not mean that Daniels, who suffered a knee sprain in Week 2, will not be able to suit up in Week 3. Still, it could be an early indication that Washington is preparing for Mariota to make the start this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders. The 31-year-old Mariota played very well in limited action across three games for Washington in 2024. He completed 34 of 44 pass attempts for 364 yards and four touchdowns, adding 92 yards and a score as a rusher as well. If Mariota gets the start against Las Vegas, he could be a quality streamer/injury replacement option at the quarterback position, particularly in two-quarterback fantasy leagues.

Sunday, August 17, 11:27 AM

Denver Broncos quarterback Jarrett Stidham got the start in the team's second preseason game on Saturday against the visiting Arizona Cardinals and looked amazing, going 16-for-23 passing for 240 yards and two touchdowns in the 27-7 victory. Starter Bo Nix got this game off, so Stidham saw most of the action under center before giving way to Sam Ehlinger late. Rookie receiver Pat Bryant was one of Stidham's favorite targets, as he hooked up with him four times for 70 yards. Second-year pass-catcher Troy Franklin was his other favorite target, and both of his TDs went to the Oregon product. The 29-year-old Stidham signed a two-year, $12 million contract with Denver back in March to return as Nix's backup in 2025 and beyond. Based on the way Stidham looked on Saturday, Denver's offense could still be decent this year if Nix misses time with injury.