Who Should I Start? Jared Goff or Anthony Richardson

Thursday, May 9, 4:22 PM

Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff has vastly exceeded expectations since being traded from the Los Angeles Rams to Detroit ahead of the 2021 season. The former No. 1 overall pick has thrown for 12,258 yards, 78 touchdowns, and 27 interceptions through his first 48 games with the organization. More importantly, he led the team to Detroit's first playoff win since 1991 last year, and he had the San Francisco 49ers on the ropes in the NFC Championship game. He did not sign a contract extension along with right tackle Penei Sewell and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown two weeks ago, but general manager Brad Holmes said the two sides are working on a deal. "He's earned an extension. It's important, it's a high priority for us. Both sides are working really, really hard. These things just take time," Holmes said. "In a perfect world, we would've had all three of them done. Bang, bang, bang. But these things just kind of take a while, especially with the quarterback market, but I do have faith that it's gonna get done." Assuming Goff receives a high-dollar multi-year deal, his dynasty value with be secure over the next three or four years. While his ceiling is capped by a lack of rushing upside, he should remain a fringe QB1 as long as the Lions retain key offensive linemen and pass-catching weapons.

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.