BALLER MOVE: Start in Deeper 2-QB Leagues
POSITIONAL VALUE: QB2
ANALYSIS: Aaron Rodgers makes his grand return to the field this week, roughly one year after tearing his Achilles on his first series with the Jets.
Rodgers' return is much-anticipated, perhaps widely due to the fact that his presence gives a major fantasy boost to players like Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, and Tyler Conklin.
Rodgers himself is worth discussing from a fantasy football perspective, too. The future Hall of Famer lacks the rushing upside needed to deliver major fantasy points, but his strong arm and poise in the pocket make him a noteworthy player.
During his final season with the Packers (and his last healthy campaign) in 2022, Rodgers completed 64.6 percent of his passes for 26 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. It was the first time in his career that he finished outside the top 10 among quarterbacks in fantasy points (minimum 10 games).
The night is darkest before the dawn. And I shall rise yet again..
Get ready for Aaron Rodgers pic.twitter.com/Fo2Bxl8xX7
— J. Gray (@JGrayJets) September 5, 2024
Rodgers remains outside the top-12 quarterback range for 2024 fantasy football, but he's still on the radar due to his ability to rack up yardage and touchdowns.
In Week 1, Rodgers faces off against a very strong 49ers defense. This unit registered the most interceptions last year while allowing the sixth-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks.
With the 49ers being such a tough matchup for quarterbacks, Rodgers' Week 1 ranking is likely a bit lower than his draft ranking. He's going to be ranked closer to QB20 or QB22 this week, making him borderline startable in two-quarterback leagues.
Managers with better quarterback depth or playing in smaller leagues can avoid Rodgers this week. Everyone else can start him, but temper expectations about his production against a relentless Niners defense.
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