What to do with Teddy Bridgewater in Week 1 fantasy football

How does one get rewarded for going 5-0 as Drew Brees’ placeholder? One receives a three-year, $63 million deal and is tasked with bringing the Panthers back to relevance after an awful season. But it’s not like Teddy Bridgewater will be surrounded by no-names in Carolina. Not even close. He’ll have the weapons, the aggressive offensive coordinator, and the confidence to do some serious damage. But is he a smart play for Week 1?

Fantasy Football analysis: Carolina Panthers QB Teddy Bridgewater

So who are these “weapons” I speak of? There are the obvious names (and I’ll throw their corresponding ages to give some perspective on potential): Christian McCaffrey (24) and DJ Moore (23). Scan the depth chart a bit more and you’ll find Curtis Samuel (24), Robby Anderson (27), and Ian Thomas (25). Led by 27-year-old Teddy Bridgewater, the entire Carolina offense will be looking to prove itself. The Oakland (now Las Vegas) Raiders had one of the weakest pass defenses last season, so it’s shaping up to be a prime spot for the Panthers.

As 3.5-point underdogs, Carolina could be playing from behind. That is a positive for Bridgewater backers. And even if the Panthers take an early lead, they would be wise to keep the foot on the pedal since their own defense is set to be one of the easiest to exploit this season. We know Teddy has the poise (69.7% completion last season) and potential to pick apart an opposition, but it’s understandable if we’re all a bit hesitant to immediately start him on our fantasy teams.

But if all your friends were jumping on Bridgewater, would you follow their lead?

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Sit.