Falcons to start QB Michael Penix Jr. going forward

Dec 17, 2024

The Kirk Cousins era in Atlanta is over. There was one?

There was. For fourteen games. After five subpar performances, Cousins has been benched for rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

Fantasy Impact:

It’s no surprise, given the things Morris said after Monday night’s unexpectedly tight win over the Raiders, and then earlier today, the story pointed out. As the story also added, it's a pretty stunning move considering the team is coming off a win, and they gave Cousins a contract with $100 million guaranteed. Of course, Penix was the eighth overall pick in the NFL Draft this past spring. It's tough to tell what fantasy owners will get if they need to start Penix this week, as it will be a bit of a risky call given it's likely a fantasy playoff game. The weapons are certainly there for him to have some success, and, it's a home game against the Giants. Owners can probably view him in the QB2 range for those type of leagues.

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Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes (ankle) listed as full for Monday's practice

Pro Football Talk

20 minutes ago

Patrick Mahomes is listed as a full participant on the team’s first injury report of the week.

Related players: Carson Wentz

Fantasy Impact:

It was a pretty positive outcome for fantasy owners counting on Mahomes in Week 16. The story said Reid spoke to reporters before practice and said they would see what Mahomes was able to do during a light practice. The answer was that he did everything that the Chiefs asked of him, the story pointed out. Keep in mind it was a light workout. It's possible Mahomes is listed as limited later in the week. As we stated earlier today, we're still some time away from Saturday, so it will be worth monitoring right up to game time. Owners may still want to have a backup plan in place.

Raiders say QB Aidan O'Connell (knee) trending toward playing Week 16

Paul Gutierrez on X

1 hour ago

"I would say he's trending upwards to playing this week." - Raiders coach Antonio Pierce, on QB Aidan O'Connell

Related players: Desmond Ridder

Fantasy Impact:

Ridder didn't exactly do much to make the Raiders want to continue to see him for the rest of the season. At this point, it makes more sense for O'Connell to get the work. Either way, the Raiders are expected to have a new starting QB next season, according to some who follow the team. The return of O'Connell would be a little boost for the rest of the offense as they have a winnable game against the Jaguars at home in Week 16.

Titans Beat: Team planning to make change at QB

Jeremy Fowler on X

1 hour ago

The Tennessee Titans are planning to make a switch at quarterback this week, source told ESPN.

Related players: Mason Rudolph

Fantasy Impact:

It seems as if there is no official word on just who will take over yet, but as the post points out, Rudolph is the logical candidate to step in. Rudolph has twice come in for Levis this season, once when injured and this past week when Levis threw three INTs. Rudolph did threw for two TDs as he tried to lead the team back against the Bengals. The Titans travel to Indy in Week 16 in a game in the early window. Rudolph did flash at times earlier this season as well, but the Titans moved back to Levis once he was healthy. Rudolph is probably a better option for deeper two QB or superflex leagues.