Who Should I Start? C.J. Stroud or Anthony Richardson

Saturday, January 20, 11:43 PM

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud struggled on the road in the team's 34-10 Divisional Round loss against the Baltimore Ravens. Stroud was not particularly efficient on Saturday, completing 19-of-33 passes for just 175 yards. The Ravens held the rookie in check, which resulted in him throwing zero touchdowns in a game for the fourth time this season. After a successful rookie campaign, Stroud's season will officially end. However, he has emerged as a top fantasy quarterback option and should be drafted pretty early in Superflex formats next season.

Tuesday, May 7, 11:29 PM

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (shoulder) is progressing well and itching to get back to normal football activities, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. "Richardson feels he's full go at this point," Fowler said during an appearance on SportsCenter. "He's been throwing for a while now. He's gradually grown to where he can throw full time with minimal restrictions. The Colts could be deliberate. They could hold him out for OTAs, 11-man work, minicamp, but the feeling is he wants to get started." These comments suggest that Richardson is pushing to return in a full capacity but Indianapolis may choose to take a more cautious approach in the final stage of his recovery and rehabilitation. Regardless, he should be back to 100 percent in time for the preseason and Week 1 of the regular season. He can be a QB1 in fantasy football as long as he stays healthy. That's easier said than done given that Richardson's physical playing style made him more susceptible to big hits and injuries as a rookie. However, Richardson reportedly might tone down his physicality in 2024, which could lead to him finishing more games (even if it equates to slightly fewer rushing yards and touchdowns, as well as more sacks). He should be treated as a fringe top-12 quarterback heading into fantasy drafts.