Who Should I Start? Cole Kmet or Michael Mayer

Wednesday, November 5, 9:27 PM

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet (concussion) was a limited participant during Wednesday's practice session. This seems like positive news after Kmet was forced to exit early during last weekend's win over the Cincinnati Bengals due to a concussion. His absence forced rookie Colston Loveland into a bigger role and he took full advantage of it. Loveland hauled in six of his seven targets for 118 yards and two touchdowns in the win. Regardless of Kmet's status, Loveland figures to have earned a larger role in this offense going forward. Kmet figures to take a backseat to Loveland even if he plays during the Week 10 matchup against the New York Giants.

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.