Who Should I Start? Sam Darnold or Will Levis

Friday, December 26, 11:24 PM

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is a risky streaming option against a talented Carolina Panthers pass defense in Week 17. The Seahawks' passing game has been inconsistent in recent weeks, further adding to the risk factor for Darnold. Carolina is No. 8 against opposing quarterbacks in fantasy. They have also forced 13 interceptions, which is good for No. 9 in the league. Darnold himself has thrown 13 interceptions this season. Seattle should be able to move the ball on the ground, and they may lean less heavily on Darnold and the passing game this week than in normal weeks. Darnold, of course, should continue his smooth connection with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, but a high enough passing output to merit a fantasy start may not be in the cards. Proceed with caution with Darnold in Week 17 if you have struggled with injuries at quarterback this year.

Wednesday, July 23, 5:05 PM

The Tennessee Titans placed quarterback Will Levis (shoulder) on Injured Reserve on Wednesday, ending his season, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. It was announced on Monday that Levis would undergo season-ending surgery on his throwing shoulder on July 29. The 26-year-old has decided to have the surgery to ensure his long-term health based on medical opinions, and he should be ready for the start of the 2026 campaign. The problem for Levis is that he didn't look good when given the starting job in 2024, and then the Titans selected Cam Ward with the first overall pick this April. If Ward handles himself well and stays healthy in his first NFL season, Levis will be returning in 2026 and strictly a backup without a chance to regain a starting gig. The surgery also confirms what we already knew: That Ward is the team's starter in 2025.