Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Jaxson Dart

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.

Friday, November 21, 8:01 PM

ESPN's Jordan Raanan reports that New York Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart (concussion) did not have a setback with his head injury, according to multiple sources. Dart is feeling better but remained limited in practice on Friday. The decision to hold the 22-year-old signal-caller out for a second straight game in Week 12 against the Detroit Lions was made by team doctors to play it safe with Dart. The Ole Miss product should be able to clear the NFL's concussion protocol to play in Week 13 against the New England Patriots on Monday Night Football. Since taking over the starting QB gig in New York, Dart has provided a spark for the offense, throwing for 1,417 yards, 10 touchdowns, and three interceptions while also rushing for 317 yards and seven touchdowns. Veteran Jameis Winston is expected to make a second straight start in Detroit on Sunday with Dart sidelined.