Who Should I Start? Cade Otton or Payne Durham

Monday, January 13, 12:34 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton caught two passes for 32 yards during Sunday's playoff loss to the Washington Commanders. The 25-year-old returned from a three-game absence this weekend, but he didn't have a major impact as the Buccaneers threw the ball just 18 times. Otton was once again overlooked as Baker Mayfield preferred throwing to wide receivers Mike Evans and Jalen McMillan. The 25-year-old finished as the overall TE14 in 2024, which was the best mark of his career and was also impressive given that he missed a trio of contests. Otton, who had 600 yards and four touchdowns during the regular season, will look to build on his production even further as he pushes to be a top-12 tight end. Fantasy managers should treat him as such, albeit on the fringe around No. 12. Managers who draft Otton in 2025 should feel comfortable with him in their starting tight end slot.

Friday, January 10, 5:49 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Payne Durham could once again see an increased role during Sunday's Wild-Card game against the Washington Commanders. Fellow tight end Cade Otton (knee) has been sidelined over the last three games. Otton was able to get in two full practice sessions this week, but is listed as questionable ahead of this game. If he sits, Durham and Devin Culp would once again see more involvement. Durham has hauled in a touchdown in two straight games coming into this one. However, Durham hasn't brought much value to the table outside of that with two receptions or less in both of those games. Durham has also only surpassed 30 receiving yards in one game this season. That being said, Durham will be a touchdown-dependent option, assuming Otton is unable to play. Otherwise, Durham won't be worth a look if Otton is active.