Fantasy Football: 2011 NFC North Quarterback Situations

Ryan LesterMay 16, 2011

Green Bay’s Aaron Rodgers is by far the best in the division. The writing was on the wall when he handled the Brett Favre situation gracefully while still delivering on the field. A concussion cost Rodgers from reaching 4,000 yards for a third straight year, but fantasy owners can live with the 3,922 yards, 28 TDs (11 INTs), 356 rushing yards, and 4 rushing TDs. If he’s not the best fantasy quarterback in the league, he is certainly a top three choice.

Chicago’s Jay Cutler cut his interception total from 26 to 16. His yardage (3,274) and touchdowns (23) also dipped, but the Bears were winning and more committed to the run. He does not have great weapons around him, but he makes do. The Bears drafted Gabe Carimi to provide some much needed improvement on the offensive line. His toughness may have come into question, but his arm strength never will. He’s a solid QB2 that is really hit or miss.

Detroit’s Matthew Stafford just can’t seem to stay healthy. The Lions did not invest heavily in their offensive line, as their play last season was actually not that bad. They did give him some complimentary weapons in the form of Titus Young and Mikel Leshoure to add to Calvin Johnson, Brandon Pettigrew, Nate Burleson and Jahvid Best. Don’t look now, but the Lions are on the rise. If the injury bug bites again, Shaun Hill has shown that he’s more than capable of stepping up.

The Vikings finally addressed the quarterback situation with a long-term solution. Christian Ponder is a good fit for the offense and has the experience to play right away. The team will likely add a veteran to mentor Ponder, but it appears he’ll get his shot. If Sidney Rice does not return, the Vikings will need to give Percy Harvin some help at WR. Adrian Peterson will make the life of a rookie quarterback easier.

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