Who Should I Start? Sean Clifford or Graham Mertz

Tuesday, September 16, 10:12 AM

The Cincinnati Bengals have signed quarterback Sean Clifford to their practice squad. A 2023 fifth-round pick, Clifford spent his rookie season with the Green Bay Packers and has yet to attempt a pass in the NFL. With Joe Burrow (toe) sidelined for at least the next three months, Clifford joins Jake Browning and Mike White in the quarterback room. Browning is expected to start in Burrow's absence, while White and Clifford serve strictly as depth options. From a fantasy perspective, Clifford carries no value and should remain on the waiver wire.

Monday, August 25, 6:32 AM

Houston Texans quarterback Graham Mertz got the start in the team's preseason finale in Detroit on Sunday, and the sixth-round rookie had a very strong showing while leading his team to a 26-7 win over the Lions. With starter C.J. Stroud and primary backup Davis Mills getting the day off, Mertz completed 14 of his 16 pass attempts for an efficient 145 passing yards. He threw a touchdown to Quintez Cephus and led three scoring drives before halftime. He also added 20 rushing yards on two carries. Mertz played ahead of Kedon Slovis, who was on the Texans' practice squad last year and took over for the second half of Saturday's win. Mertz likely secured the third spot on the quarterback depth chart with his strong showing, while Slovis could be headed back to the practice squad.