Who Should I Start? Brenton Strange or Colston Loveland

Wednesday, November 26, 10:07 AM

Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Brenton Strange returned from the Injured Reserve in Week 12 against the Arizona Cardinals and showed no signs of rust. He converted on all five of his targets for 93 receiving yards. Strange has always been a favorite target of quarterback Trevor Lawrence, and given their history together, Strange provides a reasonable floor as a tight end in PPR formats. His upside will be limited by the cluttered pass-catching room that now includes Brian Thomas Jr. (ankle), Jakobi Meyers, Parker Washington, and Strange. And while Lawrence is not the type of quarterback to make all of those pass-catchers a great fantasy play weekly, Strange's rapport with Lawrence provides a floor that makes him worth an add if you are struggling at the tight end position or lost Tucker Kraft (knee) or Sam LaPorta (back) to injury. Fantasy teams in a pinch, deep leagues, or even two flex spots can also consider Strange for that role. On the season, he's hauled in 25 of his 29 receptions for 297 yards in six games (one of which he was injured early on and did not return).

Thursday, November 27, 7:59 AM

Chicago Bears rookie tight end Colston Loveland hauled in four of five targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in the 31-28 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Loveland has emerged as a key contributor in this Bears' passing attack, totaling 40 or more yards in four straight weeks. However, veteran Cole Kmet remains a factor, splitting the snaps evenly in Week 12 (65%). While Loveland is showcasing his potential, the Bears are the fifth-most run-heavy team in the NFL, and have seven receivers who have 195 yards or more on the season. Loveland faces a tough matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, who have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season. With a crowded receiving room and a tough matchup, Loveland is a risky start in Week 13.