Quarterbacks Seeking Redemption in Contract Year Showdown

As the 2025 NFL season approaches on August 23rd, a quartet of Week 1 starting quarterbacks find themselves in a contract year, creating an intriguing dynamic for both the players and fantasy football managers.

Aaron Rodgers, at 41 years old, is the elder statesman of the group. Despite indicating his plans to retire after this season, Rodgers is still determined to end his career on a high note after a disappointing 2024 campaign with the New York Jets. While his fantasy upside may be limited due to the Steelers' focus on defense and the running game, Rodgers could still be relevant in deeper leagues if he can establish a deep-ball connection with DK Metcalf.

Joining Rodgers in the contract year club are Daniel Jones, Russell Wilson, and Joe Flacco. Jones, who beat out former fourth overall pick Anthony Richardson for the starting job in Indianapolis, is aiming to bounce back after a 2-8 record with the Giants last season. The 28-year-old Jones holds the most upside of the group due to his age and running ability, having rushed for 265 yards and two touchdowns in 2024.

Wilson, who signed a one-year deal with the Giants for the second consecutive offseason, is the biggest risk on the list as he faces competition from first-round rookie Jaxson Dart. The veteran quarterback will need to play well and help the Giants win to justify keeping Dart on the sidelines.

Flacco, the oldest of the quartet at 40 years old, could be a boom-or-bust QB3 option for fantasy managers. While he's not a long-term solution, Flacco's "risk it" mentality could lead to big passing totals, even if some come in garbage time.

As these quarterbacks enter the 2025 season with their futures uncertain, their high-stakes contract year status is sure to add an extra layer of intrigue and motivation to their performances, making them players to watch closely in the upcoming fantasy football season.