Sam Darnold Might Draw Start On Sunday
1 year agoSan Francisco 49ers quarterback Sam Darnold could be in line for his first start of the year in Week 8 at home against the Cincinnati Bengals. Regular quarterback Brock Purdy remained in the league's concussion protocol on Friday and could be forced to sit. In 2022 with the Panthers, Darnold averaged 14.4 fantasy points per game in a six-game stretch to finish the year, including a three-touchdown performance in Week 17 which was immediately followed by a dismal Week 18 when he produced less than one fantasy point. Cincinnati checks in with the sixth-worst pass defense in football, allowing 355.8 passing yards per game and the 49ers have plenty of options even without Deebo Samuel (shoulder) available. Despite that, the 49ers are likely to lean heavily on the running game, especially if they get the lead early. If Purdy is out, Darnold would be a viable choice in superflex formats but a precarious-at-best play in standard leagues.
Source: Pro Football Reference
Source: Pro Football Reference