In the ever-evolving world of fantasy football, the quarterback position remains a crucial piece of the puzzle. As the season progresses, the trade value of these signal-callers can fluctuate, presenting savvy managers with opportunities to bolster their rosters. This comprehensive guide delves into the latest trends, risers, and fallers among the quarterback ranks, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the trade market and secure a competitive edge.
Unlock the Quarterback Trade Advantage
Quarterback Riser: Justin Herbert's Ascent
The Los Angeles Chargers have finally unleashed the full potential of their star quarterback, Justin Herbert. Early in the season, the team's offense was heavily skewed towards a run-heavy approach, with a pass rate over expectation (PROE) of -8.3% in the first month. However, following their Week 5 bye, the Chargers have adopted a more balanced offensive strategy, boasting a 1% PROE, which ranks 14th in the league.This shift in offensive philosophy has allowed Herbert to thrive, as he has scored at least 19 fantasy points in three of his last five games. During this stretch, he has emerged as the QB8, showcasing his ability to excel when given the opportunity to air it out. If the Chargers maintain this balanced offensive approach, Herbert's fantasy value is poised to soar, making him a coveted trade target for managers seeking a matchup-based starter with top-tier upside.Quarterback Faller: Trevor Lawrence's Injury Woes
Just when it seemed like Trevor Lawrence was hitting his stride and climbing the quarterback rankings, a setback has struck. The Jacksonville Jaguars' young signal-caller has suffered an AC joint sprain, a serious injury that may sideline him for the remainder of the season. With the Jaguars' season effectively over, it makes sense for the team to err on the side of caution and shut down their prized quarterback to avoid further risk.This development is a crushing blow to the fantasy value of Lawrence, as well as the players who rely on his production, such as wide receiver Christian Kirk and tight end Evan Engram. Additionally, it removes a potential streaming option at the quarterback position, leaving fantasy managers in search of viable weekly starters.Quarterback Trade Target: Kyler Murray's Playoff Potential
As the trade deadline and fantasy playoffs approach, savvy managers should consider targeting quarterbacks with favorable late-season schedules. One such player is Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals, who faces a series of plus matchups in Weeks 14-17.During this crucial stretch, the Cardinals will take on the New England Patriots, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Rams, all of whom rank 21st or worse in both scoring defense and EPA allowed per play. This presents an excellent opportunity for Murray to thrive and potentially emerge as a top-3 quarterback during the fantasy playoffs.Despite his inconsistent performance this season, Murray can likely be acquired at a price that does not fully reflect the strength of his playoff schedule. For managers who have secured a playoff spot, targeting Murray could be a game-changing move that sets their team up for a deep postseason run.The Quarterback Trade Value Chart
To help you navigate the quarterback trade market, we've compiled a comprehensive trade value chart that reflects the latest consensus rankings and player values. This chart allows you to compare the relative worth of quarterbacks across different positions, providing a valuable tool for making informed trade decisions.Remember, these values are subject to change throughout the season, so be sure to check back regularly for updates. By staying informed and leveraging the insights provided in this guide, you can position your fantasy team for success and make the most of the quarterback trade market.