Week 7 is underway, and we’ve got some quarterback storylines worth monitoring. Keep a close eye on Kyler Murray, J.J. McCarthy, and Brock Purdy as all three could return to action this week. I’m not overly optimistic about the backup options if those starters can’t go. Jacoby Brissett faces a tough Packers defense, so don’t expect a repeat of his Week 6 numbers. Carson Wentz will get a chance to face his former team, but the Eagles’ secondary has quietly been one of the better coverage units this season. Even Mac Jones, who’s played solid ball lately, draws a difficult matchup against the Falcons, who just showed on Monday Night Football that their defense is no joke. –Steve Pintado
Rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel could be a sneaky sleeper play in Week 7 against the Dolphins. While everyone’s drooling over Quinshon Judkins, don’t overlook what Miami’s defense has been giving up through the air — they’ve allowed at least two passing touchdowns to every quarterback they’ve faced this season, along with solid yardage totals. If the ground game gets rolling, that could help open up passing lanes for Gabriel to find rhythm and confidence early. He’s a deeper-league streamer who could quietly post mid-QB2 numbers this week if game flow stays competitive. –Steve Pintado
If Week 6 didn’t convince you, it might be time to stay away from Justin Fields in Week 7. On paper, the Panthers look like a friendly matchup, but they’ve actually been stingy against rushing quarterbacks, allowing minimal yardage on the ground to the position. To make matters worse, Fields is likely to be without his top receiving weapon, who accounts for the majority of the team’s receptions and yardage. If Fields were a more reliable passer, this could’ve been a smash spot — but given the current state of the Jets’ offense, he’s a risky start in Week 7. –Steve Pintado
Don’t shy away from Baker Mayfield in Week 7, even with his top three receivers sidelined. The Lions’ secondary has become a favorable matchup for fantasy quarterbacks — in five of their six games, they’ve allowed two or more passing touchdowns. On top of that, Mayfield could chip in with his legs this week. Detroit has given up 30+ rushing yards to opposing quarterbacks in three of the last four games, adding some sneaky upside to Baker’s floor. Mayfield has some serious upside for Week 7. –Steve Pintado