Jacoby Brissett vs J.J. McCarthy: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Jacoby Brissett and J.J. McCarthy is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The Arizona Cardinals quarterback put up 16.8 PPG in 2025 over 14 games; J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings averaged 13.7 in 10. A 3.1-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 3.1 points favors Jacoby Brissett, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one quarterback to the other.
Both lean on arm talent and offensive scheme as traditional pocket passers. Jacoby Brissett threw for 3366 yards and 23 touchdowns, while J.J. McCarthy posted 1632 yards and 11 scores. Volume, red zone efficiency, and game script are the key week-to-week differentiators when neither carries rushing upside.
Bye weeks matter for roster construction: Jacoby Brissett sits Week 11 while J.J. McCarthy is off Week 6. If you are deciding between the two as a season-long roster hold, the staggered byes actually work in your favor.
