Fantasy football enthusiasts, it’s that time again! Week 7 is upon us, and it’s time to dive into the intriguing world of tight ends. In this article, we’ll break down some key players you should consider starting and a few you might want to think twice about.
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Week 7 Byes and Notable Injuries
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s address some important factors that could impact your tight end decisions this week. We’re in that part of the 2023 season where bye weeks start to disrupt our fantasy lineups. The following teams are on bye in Week 7:
- Carolina Panthers
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Dallas Cowboys
- Houston Texans
- New York Jets
- Tennessee Titans
If you had players like Dalton Schultz, Jake Ferguson, Ty Conklin, or Hayden Hurst in your lineup, you’ll need an alternative at tight end. And let’s face it, the tight end pool isn’t exactly overflowing with options.
Additionally, keep an eye on a few injury situations. Players like Dalton Knox, Juwan Johnson, and Hunter Henry have been dealing with various injuries, which could affect their availability. On the bright side, Pat Freiermuth might make a return for the Steelers.
The Starts
Dallas Goedert vs. Miami Dolphins
Welcome to Miami, where the Eagles are set to face off against one of the most potent offenses since the 2013 Denver Broncos. Miami is averaging an impressive 37.2 points per game. The good news for fantasy owners is that Miami’s defense has been friendly to both wide receivers and tight ends, allowing the 9th and 11th most fantasy points per game to these positions, respectively.
Dallas Goedert, who has seen a surge in targets, faces a Miami defense that has given up 34 receptions and 312 yards to tight ends this season. With 8 targets in his last game against the Jets and a previous outing of 8 catches for 117 yards against the Rams, Goedert’s stock is on the rise.
Michael Mayer vs. Chicago Bears
Michael Mayer of the Las Vegas Raiders is a rising star at the tight end position. Fresh off his career-best performance, Mayer is showing great promise. Even if Jimmy Garoppolo is unavailable, the Raiders should exploit a Bears defense that has struggled against tight ends, allowing a high target share, participation rate, and targets per route run.
Kaden Auton vs. Atlanta Falcons
Looking for a deep sleeper at tight end? Kaden Auton could be your guy this week. The Falcons have been tough against wide receivers and running backs but not so much against tight ends. In fact, they’ve surrendered the seventh-most fantasy points to the position this season. Auton has an opportunity to capitalize on this favorable matchup.
Taysom Hill and Pat Freiermuth
Taysom Hill is a solid start option, especially if Juwan Johnson remains sidelined. If available, Pat Freiermuth is a must-start against the Rams. Both of them should be prioritized over deeper options like Auton.
The Sits
Sam Laporta vs. Baltimore Ravens
Sam Laporta of the Detroit Lions has been a standout performer at tight end this season. However, facing the Baltimore Ravens, who have yet to allow a touchdown to a tight end this season, could limit his production. Baltimore’s defense has clamped down on tight ends, holding them to just 151 yards all season.
Cole Kmet vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Cole Kmet’s fantasy value this week is uncertain due to the uncertainty surrounding Justin Fields’ status. Fields’ dislocated thumb could affect his ability to grip the ball effectively. While the Raiders have struggled against tight ends historically, recent performances suggest that their defense might be improving in this regard.
Zach Ertz vs. Seattle Seahawks
Don’t be deceived by the Seahawks’ vulnerability to wide receivers; they’ve been surprisingly stingy against tight ends. They allow the fifth-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season, with no touchdowns conceded. Zach Ertz couldn’t capitalize on a favorable matchup last week, so temper your expectations against the Seahawks.
Wrapping Up
Tight end decisions are never easy, and Week 7 brings its own set of challenges with bye weeks and injuries. Consider the matchups, recent performances, and injury updates when making your choices. Remember, there are no guarantees in fantasy football, but informed decisions increase your chances of success.
So, who are you starting, and who are you sitting? Let us know in the comments below!
