Who Should I Start? Daniel Bellinger or Michael Mayer

Monday, October 20, 12:24 AM

New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger caught three of his four targets for 88 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's Week 7 loss against the Los Angeles Chargers. The highlight of his performance was a 44-yard trip to the end zone in the first quarter, breaking a scoreless tie. Once again, Bellinger and Theo Johnson were able to co-exist within this offense, as Johnson caught three passes for 66 yards and a score. It's the second time in the last three weeks that the duo has combined for at least seven catches in a single game. The two tight ends have seen an uptick in volume with Malik Nabers (knee) done for the year, and they should continue to carve out roles for themselves going forward. Johnson has been a steadier contributor so far, but Bellinger is worthy of low-end TE2 consideration in deeper leagues. He'll take on the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 8.

Sunday, October 19, 9:17 AM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer is expected to remain the team's starter in Week 7 against the Kansas City Chiefs. Star tight end Brock Bowers (knee) will likely miss his third consecutive game, leaving Mayer in line to operate at the top of the depth chart. It will be the second consecutive start for the 24-year-old, who was excellent last Sunday with five catches, 50 yards, and a touchdown. The Chiefs have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to tight ends in 2025, but an anticipated negative game script and a lack of many other options in the passing game will likely compel Geno Smith to throw to his primary tight end early and often. Mayer should be viewed as a mid-to-low TE1 this week.