Who Should I Start? Sam Darnold or Trevor Lawrence

Monday, August 24, 8:36 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence was the overall QB4 in fantasy football leagues last year. He achieved this personal-best mark thanks to increased productivity on the ground, including a career-high nine rushing touchdowns. It's not a lock that Lawrence will be as successful running the football in 2026, but it's worth noting that the departure of Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency may improve his chances of earning carries around the goal line. Regardless of Lawrence's exact rushing role, we expect him to remain a highly productive passer thanks to the weapons at his disposal. Jakobi Meyers and Parker Washington both had breakout campaigns last year, Brian Thomas Jr. is enjoying a great camp and looks like he could return to his rookie form, and Travis Hunter should offer a spark whenever he earns offensive snaps. With these receivers (as well as tight end Brenton Strange) available to him, Lawrence has no excuse not to push for 30 passing touchdowns like he did last year. Perhaps the key this year is cleaning up the turnovers, as Lawrence did have 12 interceptions and three lost fumbles last year. Nevertheless, he remains in the mix as a top-eight quarterback for fantasy football purposes in 2026.