Drake Maye vs. J.J. McCarthy – Who Should I Draft In 2024 Fantasy Football?

The 2024 NFL Draft was a historical event. Six quarterbacks were drafted in the first round, with all six selected within the first 12 picks.

Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye were the first three selections. Meanwhile, Michael Penix Jr. went eighth overall. J.J. McCarthy was the 10th overall pick by the Minnesota Vikings, while Bo Nix was drafted 12th overall by the Denver Broncos.

Many expect Williams, Daniels, and Nix to start Week 1. Meanwhile, Penix won’t see the field as long as Kirk Cousins is healthy. However, Maye and McCarthy likely play as rookies but won’t start Week 1. Let’s look at which rookie quarterback fantasy players should draft in 2024.

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Drake Maye 2024 Fantasy Football Outlook

Some will refuse to draft Maye after getting selected by the New England Patriots. The team hasn’t had a productive quarterback besides Tom Brady in over two decades. However, there is hope for the former North Carolina star. Maye has made some impressive plays during camp and has a solid core of young wide receivers at his disposal.

No 👀@DrakeMaye2 | #NEPats pic.twitter.com/5R9q5wYJTX

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) May 30, 2024

J.J. McCarthy 2024 Fantasy Football Outlook

Fantasy players are split on McCarthy. Some believe the rookie will be a star in the NFL, while others think he was overrated in college. However, the former Michigan quarterback is in a perfect situation for fantasy players. The Vikings have a talented receiving core led by Justin Jefferson. While McCarthy could earn the Week 1 starting role, Sam Darnold will open training camp as the No. 1 quarterback on the roster.

Kevin O’Connell confirms veteran QB Sam Darnold will be the starter at the beginning of training camp, as expected. pic.twitter.com/I2tN3CSCiO

— vikesinsider (@vikesinsider) June 12, 2024

Should I Draft McCarthy or Maye for Fantasy Football?

Both rookie quarterbacks are talented prospects and should be top-eight picks in dynasty rookie drafts. Yet, neither quarterback is likely to have much fantasy success in 2024. The Patriots and Vikings have solid veterans set to start Week 1 unless the rookie is fantastic during training camp.

However, fantasy players in superflex leagues should draft McCarthy before Maye. McCarthy has the better coaching staff, weather situation, and supporting cast, giving him a better chance of being a fantasy star this season.

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