Who Should I Start? Chig Okonkwo or Michael Mayer

Monday, November 3, 7:26 PM

Tennessee Titans tight end Chig Okonkwo caught two passes for 10 yards on two targets in Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Okonkwo was active despite being limited in practice with a foot injury most of the week. The 26-year-old has fallen short of three targets on two occasions over the last three weeks. On Sunday, Okonkwo was limited to five yards per reception, the third-lowest this season. Okonkwo has only finished as a top-eight tight end once through the first nine weeks and still hasn't scored a touchdown this year. The Titans are heading into a crucial bye week that could lead to changes aimed at improving their offense. Managers should consider benching Okonkwo after the bye week, when the Titans host the Houston Texans in Week 11.

Thursday, November 6, 10:08 AM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer lost his starting role in Week 9 with the return of Brock Bowers, but he remained involved in the offense. Despite operating as the TE2, Mayer caught three of seven targets for 26 yards in the 30-29 loss to Jacksonville. Notably, he still played 83% of the snaps as Las Vegas used 12 personnel (two-tight-end sets) on 58.3% of their plays, which is their highest rate this season. With Jakobi Meyers now in Jacksonville, the Raiders are likely to continue leaning on heavier formations, which should keep Mayer on the field. However, the matchup is difficult this week. Denver has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to tight ends, but their strong pass rush could force Mayer into increased blocking duties rather than receiving work. Mayer should remain on fantasy benches in Week 10.