The Buffalo Bills’ quarterback battle doesn’t have a clear winner yet, but we’re getting close to a resolution. The Bills hosted the Cleveland Browns for a joint practice on Monday, and Matt Cassel and Tyrod Taylor alternated reps with the first team.
Matt Cassel, Tyrod Taylor battling for starting QB job, but neither one has fantasy relevance
The Bills’ quarterback battle is down to two men as EJ Manuel continues to fall behind. We break down the fantasy implications.
Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
Cassel appeared to have the more successful day, according to the Buffalo News, moving the ball consistently against a Browns defense that looked lost at times. Cornerback Justin Gilbert was singled out as performing poorly, and Cassel made him pay with a deep connection to Robert Woods. Taylor had issues with accuracy but still got plenty of first-team reps.
Meanwhile, EJ Manuel continues to fall behind, playing exclusively with the third team. A first-round pick in 2013, Manuel has fallen to the bottom of the depth chart. The Buffalo News noted that it “clearly is a two-man battle between Cassel and Taylor.”
Fantasy impact: While Cassel started the first preseason game, Taylor is set to start the second game on Thursday. We should learn a lot more about this battle afterwards. Ultimately, neither player is a real fantasy option -- whoever wins the job will be tasked with avoiding turnovers and handing the ball off in Rex Ryan’s famed “Ground and Pound” offense. Taylor’s running ability gives him a little bit of upside, but fantasy owners should avoid this situation unless they’re in a two-quarterback league and really desperate.
