Who Should I Start? Cole Kmet or Eli Raridon

START

Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.		 Rush.
Yds.		 Rush
TD		 Rec. Rec.
Yds.		 Rec
TD
4.2 0.0 0.0 1.6 17.9 0.1

Cole Kmet News

Cole Kmet's Role Could Shrink Further in 2026

Tuesday, August 11, 7:12 PM

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet enters the 2026 season with an uncertain workload. Last season, Kmet recorded 30 receptions for 347 yards and two touchdowns in 16 games, marking his worst stat line since his 2020 rookie season. The addition of 2025 first-round pick Colston Loveland significantly reduced Kmet's usual workload, dropping his snap share from 88% to 70% in 2025. Loveland's addition hurts Kmet's fantasy outlook, and the addition of third-round rookie Sam Roush could also take Kmet off the field this season. Roush is a willing blocking tight end who, after being drafted, said he "loves getting in the trenches and getting dirty." While Kmet could be a trade candidate during the season, which could help his fantasy value, he may be stuck outside the Top 50 at the position in 2026 if Roush starts the season strong.

BENCH

Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.		 Rush.
Yds.		 Rush
TD		 Rec. Rec.
Yds.		 Rec
TD
2.0 0.0 0.0 0.9 8.3 0.1

Eli Raridon News

Mike Vrabel Impressed By Eli Raridon's Improvement as a Blocker

Saturday, August 15, 4:45 PM

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is impressed with rookie tight end Eli Raridon's improvement as a blocker, according to Patriots beat reporter Taylor Kyles. Raridon continues to have an impressive training camp and was taking snaps with the first-team offense. The Patriots selected Raridon in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft and is set to be New England's No. 2 tight end behind Hunter Henry. The 22-year-old has shown flashes in camp and could be a key contributor this season. Henry did sign a two-year extension with the Patriots this offseason, so dynasty managers might have to wait a few years before they see Raridon as the team's starting tight end. Raridon could force his way onto the field, and his stock in dynasty and redraft is rising as he continues to have an impressive training camp.

Cole Kmet vs. Eli Raridon

Still trying to decide between Kmet and Raridon? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Cole Kmet is projected to score 4.2 points this week while Eli Raridon is projected to score 2.0 points.