Joe Burrow vs Lamar Jackson: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. Joe Burrow finished the 2025 season at 17.4 PPG over 8 games with the Cincinnati Bengals, while Lamar Jackson clocked in at 17.1 across 13 appearances for the Baltimore Ravens. A 0.3-point gap means any given week could go either way.
With a margin this thin, season averages are not the deciding factor. Weekly variables like opponent defense, game script, and injury status carry more weight than a fraction of a PPG. The right start in Week 6 might be the wrong start in Week 14.
Both lean on arm talent and offensive scheme as traditional pocket passers. Joe Burrow threw for 1809 yards and 17 touchdowns, while Lamar Jackson posted 2549 yards and 21 scores. Volume, red zone efficiency, and game script are the key week-to-week differentiators when neither carries rushing upside.
One scheduling note: Joe Burrow is off Week 12 and Lamar Jackson Week 14. If these two are on your roster, you will need a fill-in quarterback for both weeks. DraftCall flags bye conflicts so you can plan ahead rather than panic on waivers.
