Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Mac Jones

Wednesday, December 24, 12:46 PM

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (hand, quadriceps) has officially been ruled out for the Week 17 divisional game on Christmas Day on Thursday against the Dallas Cowboys, according to Tashan Reed of The Washington Post. Mariota injured his hand and quad in Saturday's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. It's unclear if Mariota will be cleared to play in next week's regular-season finale against the Eagles. With Mariota out on Christmas Day, veteran journeyman Josh Johnson will make his first start in the NFL since late in the 2021 season. For what it's worth, head coach Dan Quinn said he's hoping that Mariota will be ready to return in Week 18 for the rematch against Philly. The 32-year-old has been serviceable as a QB2 in fantasy football in 11 games (eight starts) this year with Jayden Daniels injured, completing 61.2% of his passes for 1,695 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and seven picks.

Sunday, November 16, 8:11 AM

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones will head back to the bench ahead of the Week 11 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Jones has started in each of the last six games while Brock Purdy (toe) was sidelined. Now, Purdy is ready to play, so Jones will return to being the backup. However, Jones was impressive during his time as the starter. He threw for 2,151 yards with 13 touchdowns and six interceptions in eight games. It sounds like this solid play has made him a prime trade candidate for the 2026 season. Jones is still under control with the organization after signing a two-year, seven million deal with the organization this offseason. Purdy is viewed as the franchise quarterback in San Francisco, so moving Jones makes sense. Given his play this season, Jones should draw some interest in the trade market. This is something to monitor during the offseason.