Who Should I Start? Daniel Bellinger or Michael Mayer

Saturday, November 8, 2:19 AM

New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger is showing subtle signs of increased involvement in the offense, making him a speculative play in deep fantasy leagues for Week 10 against the Chicago Bears. While Bellinger is the 35th-ranked fantasy TE, averaging just 3.86 points per game, he is benefiting from rookie QB Jaxson Dart's tight end targets and the team's increased use of two-tight end sets following major receiver injuries. Bellinger's impressive 17.6 yards per reception shows an unexpected deep-threat element that could exploit the Chicago defense's weakness, as they have allowed 20 passing touchdowns on the season. Although Chicago is an average matchup against the TE position, this vulnerable defense (28.4 points allowed per game) offers a glimmer of hope that Bellinger could score a sneaky touchdown.

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.