Who Should I Start? Matthew Stafford or Lamar Jackson

Tuesday, October 21, 11:59 AM

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford is playing at an extremely high level so far in 2025. Across seven games, the 37-year-old has completed 66.1% of his pass attempts for 1,866 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. Stafford's average of 7.7 yards per pass attempt is his best since the 2021 season, when he finished the year with 4,886 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. The Rams have their bye in Week 8, so fantasy managers won't be able to deploy Stafford this week. Still, given how he has played this season, fantasy managers may be wise to stash Stafford through the bye, even in single-quarterback formats. For fantasy managers looking to beat the waiver wire in shallow leagues where Stafford might not already be rostered, the Rams have a favorable matchup in Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints.

Friday, October 24, 3:59 PM

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (hamstring) is officially listed as questionable to play in his team's Week 8 matchup against the Chicago Bears. Jackson was able to log his first full practice of the week on Friday, but the team has not yet committed to him making his return against Chicago. The superstar signal-caller has been sidelined since Week 4 due to a hamstring injury. In four games before getting hurt, Jackson recorded 869 yards and 10 touchdowns as a passer and 166 yards and a score as a rusher. If Jackson remains out in Week 8, veteran Tyler Huntley would get the start for Baltimore. Should Jackson be healthy enough to play, he profiles as a must-start fantasy quarterback. His presence would also significantly benefit Ravens skill position players like wide receiver Zay Flowers and running back Derrick Henry, who have struggled in his absence.