Few starting quarterbacks in the NFL are weaker Fantasy options in Week 1 than Browns signal-caller Brian Hoyer. Let us list the reasons.
The Steelers have won 17 of their last 18 games against Cleveland and haven't lost at home to their AFC North rivals since 2003. They have held the Browns to just 44 points in their last six games in Pittsburgh.
In addition, Hoyer might not receive all the playing time behind center. Packages for run-oriented rookie Johnny Manziel could be implemented in an attempt to loosen up the Steelers defense.
Hoyer also did not look as sharp in the preseason as he did as an unbeaten starter in three games in 2013. His throws were often off-target and he failed to lead his receivers well enough to allow them to rack up yards after the catch. He did not throw a touchdown pass with the first team until the final exhibition game.
Lastly - and perhaps most importantly - Hoyer lacks a go-to receiver. The loss of Josh Gordon for the year to a drug suspension leaves Miles Austin and Andrew Hawkins as the top wideouts. Tight end Jordan Cameron had a miserable preseason.
Hoyer has potential as the Cleveland starter, but everything is weighing against him heading into the 2014 season. He is best left unplayed in all Fantasy leagues.