Tyler Huntley lasted less than three weeks in Cleveland. (USA Today)
This week, Minnesota altered its QB room by signing Carson Wentz and dealing Sam Howell to Philadelphia; a day after throwing a punch in a game, rookie safety Shilo Sanders was waived by Tampa Bay; and veteran OL La’el Collins has been told he’ll be released by Dallas. Other Fantasy football stories we’re following include…
Tyler Huntley Shown the Door
The bottom really dropped out for the Cleveland Browns last year. Saddled with the worst offense in the NFL, they plummeted to a mere three wins a season after putting up 11.
And if this team manages to improve its attack this year, it likely won’t be because of the running game. If you’re seeking RB help, it’s best to look elsewhere.
In terms of who is going to be running this so-called offense, this much we do know: QB Tyler Huntley is out, released despite an impressive showing during preseason play.
After spending the first four years of his career in Baltimore, Huntley signed with Miami just over a year ago and wound up appearing in just five games. He had some moments (career-best YPP), but was ultimately doomed by sacks, being taken down 15 times.
Now, less than three weeks after signing with Cleveland (see video below), Huntley will again be seeking new work, and given his pedigree as a backup and fine running skills, he will likely find another opportunity — perhaps even returning to his original squad.
Realistically, this was a numbers game for the Browns with five other quarterbacks in the mix, including Deshaun Watson (who will miss at least four games in the wake of last year’s Achilles’ tear), Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett (dealing with a hamstring woe, but potentially ready for Week One) and rookies Shedeur Sanders (the subject of trade rumours) and Dillon Gabriel (who may still get a chance to start later this year). Flacco is expected to start in Week One, but you don’t want him anywhere near your lineup despite the fact he played very well in his preseason action.
Similar to the RB situation, this is one you’re well advised to avoid.
The Raiders Need QB Help
The Las Vegas Raiders made some progress in 2023 with eight wins, but thanks to a brutal offense, that total was halved last year as they missed the playoffs for the third straight season.
And judging by the fact that according to FanDuel only five teams have longer odds to make the playoffs in 2025 than the Raiders (+320), this streak is not likely to end this season.
Things look even worse now that projected backup quarterback Aidan O’Connell will miss 6-to-8 weeks with a fractured wrist. Somehow, O’Connell worked his way into a starting gig, and he actually showed some modest improvements in his second season, especially in terms of avoiding sacks.
But the Raiders needed an upgrade so they traded for Geno Smith in March, and he’s the clear-cut starter for this squad. Still, O’Connell’s injury forces Las Vegas to find more depth at the position before the season begins, especially given that sixth round pick Cam Miller is not ready to be thrown to the wolves.
The good news is that options abound. Hell, there’s also the aforementioned Huntley now available as a backup plan.
Expect the Raiders to make a deal for a QB or sign one as a free agent over the next few days.
RotoRob Tune of the Day
The Butterfield Blues Band (also known as the Paul Butterfield Blues Band) was active from 1963 to 1971, and perhaps most famous for appearing at Woodstock. Here’s “Love March,” from that 1969 performance.