Mac Jones vs Marcus Mariota: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. Mac Jones finished the 2025 season at 12.4 PPG over 11 games with the San Francisco 49ers, while Marcus Mariota clocked in at 12.0 across 11 appearances for the Washington Commanders. A 0.4-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. Mac Jones threw for 2151 yards and 13 touchdowns, while Marcus Mariota posted 1695 yards and 10 scores. Volume, red zone efficiency, and game script are the key week-to-week differentiators when neither carries rushing upside.
One scheduling note: Mac Jones is off Week 9 and Marcus Mariota 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.
