Who Should I Start? Trey Lance or Kenny Pickett

Monday, December 1, 9:17 PM

Los Angeles Chargers backup quarterback Trey Lance will receive first-team practice reps in goal-line situations this week. This is a result of starting quarterback Justin Herbert (hand) needing surgery on his left (non-throwing) hand following Sunday's win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Herbert had a metacarpal fracture in his left hand but still plans to play in Week 14 versus the Philadelphia Eagles next Monday night. The fact that Lance is doing goal-line work could be a hint that the Chargers might use him in goal-line situations, with Herbert probably being unable to take snaps under center next week. If Herbert plays in Week 14, he'll be more of a low-end QB1 option in fantasy football while going up against a strong Eagles pass rush.

Saturday, December 13, 12:21 AM

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kenny Pickett will earn a spot start against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 15 with teammate Geno Smith (shoulder, back) sidelined. While Pickett should offer a nice change from Smith, who has 16 touchdowns, 15 turnovers, and 49 sacks this year, he likely won't be a reliable fantasy starter. Pickett went 8-for-11 with 97 yards and a touchdown in relief of Smith last week, and he hasn't finished any of his four seasons higher than the QB28 in fantasy football. He could struggle against an Eagles defense allowing the fourth-fewest passing touchdowns and 14th-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in 2025. Pickett ranks as the overall QB31 in this week's RotoBaller fantasy rankings, which means that he can be benched in all leagues.