Who Should I Start? Matthew Stafford or J.J. McCarthy

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, 10:41 AM

Jeff Howe of The Athletic writes that the Minnesota Vikings' offense "has been scaled down with quarterback J.J. McCarthy taking over." Howe also notes that there's "measured optimism" in league circles around McCarthy's future, but that a "seamless transition" should not be expected. The 22-year-old is taking over for the departed Sam Darnold under center in Minnesota after Darnold led the Vikings to a 14-3 record in 2024. McCarthy has drawn favorable reviews for his play in training camp and the preseason, but there's always a level of unknown for a player who has not seen the field in an actual NFL game. McCarthy profiles as a high-end QB2 in redraft fantasy leagues.