Who Should I Start? Matthew Stafford or C.J. Stroud

Wednesday, September 3, 9:32 PM

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (back) was not listed on the team's official injury report Wednesday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. The veteran signal caller missed most of camp, but he evidently had enough recovery time to be ready for the Rams' upcoming season opener against the Houston Texans. Stafford is less than two years removed from a Pro Bowl campaign in which he threw for 3,965 yards and 24 touchdowns with Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua at his disposal. His productivity dipped slightly last year, but he was still healthy for 16 games and led the Rams to a 10-win season. Heading into 2025, Stafford still has a strong group of weapons at his disposal, including Nacua and Davante Adams. Although he lacks rushing upside, his role in a strong passing offense gives him fantasy relevance as a mid-to-low QB2.

Friday, August 29, 9:57 PM

According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, the Houston Texans have been "encouraged with the new group that is charged with protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud." Houston traded left tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders during the offseason. Fortunately, Aireontae Ersery "has gotten off to a strong start to pace" the team's revamped protection unit. Houston's offensive line was among the worst in the National Football League in 2024. While the latest update from Howe is encouraging, things must change drastically or Stroud could continue to suffer. The signal-caller took a step back in his sophomore campaign, finishing by throwing for 3,727 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 picks. He also failed to find the end zone on the run after doing so three times in 2023. With that said, wide receiver Tank Dell (knee) isn't expected back anytime soon, and Stefon Diggs is now a New England Patriot. As a result, Stroud may not be the safest fantasy quarterback compared to some, although he is still worth starting in most formats, assuming his production doesn't decrease even more moving forward. .