Who Should I Start? Michael Penix Jr. or Anthony Richardson

Sunday, January 5, 5:07 PM

Atlanta Falcons rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. went 21-for-38 with 312 yards, two passing scores and an interception during their overtime loss to the Carolina Panthers. Penix added five yards and score on his lone carry. After averaging just 212.5 passing yards during the first two games of his career, Penix enjoyed a strong finish to the 2024 campaign, despite falling just short to the Panthers. The Washington product leaned on his top wideout Drake London as he threw to him 18 times. London also brought in both his touchdown passes and finished the day with 187 receiving yards. The 24-year-old has tallied four total touchdowns over his first three NFL games but sits with a 1-2 record, with both of his losses coming in overtime. Fantasy managers should expect Penix to be in the driver's seat to open as the team's starting QB in 2025.

Wednesday, April 23, 1:16 PM

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson, who is locked in a position battle with Daniel Jones for the starting QB job this offseason, said he worked extensively on "footwork" and "being able to just stay calm in the pocket." The former fourth overall pick in 2023 was benched in favor of veteran Joe Flacco in 2024 and has missed considerable time due to injuries in his first two years in the league. The 22-year-old signal-caller has elite rushing ability, but he has posted just a 50.6% career completion rate, which is why the Colts brought in Jones this offseason to push the physically-gifted athlete. The Colts have said they've received encouraging reports on Richardson's progress this offseason, but the proof will be in the pudding of whether he can beat out Jones and stay healthy. In a best-case scenario, Richardson will win the starting gig and be an upside QB2 target in fantasy due to his rushing ability.