Who Should I Start? Darnell Washington or Gunnar Helm

Thursday, May 7, 7:46 AM

Tennessee Titans tight end Gunnar Helm represents an intriguing buy-low option ahead of a potential Year 2 breakout in 2026. Despite missing one game and playing behind Chig Okonkwo last year, Helm managed to catch 44 passes for 357 yards and two touchdowns. Even though he was a rookie and No. 2 on the depth chart, he finished as the overall TE31 in PPR leagues. The Texas product was trending up to end the season, and his dynasty outlook got a major boost as the Titans let Okonkwo depart in free agency. Now, Helm is the clear-cut No. 1 tight end in a Titans offense that could be trending upward. Quarterback Cameron Ward is certainly still developing, but we'd expect him to make a significant leap in his second season. And the state of the offense as a whole is in a very good place with players like Tony Pollard, Wan'Dale Robinson, and Carnell Tate. There are a lot of mouths to feed in the passing game, but the fact that Helm essentially has the tight end position all to himself is a very encouraging sign, especially in an offense led by Brian Daboll. Under the guidance of Daboll, Giants tight end Theo Johnson jumped from TE37 as a rookie to TE18 in his second season. Don't be surprised if Helm follows a similar trajectory. He currently ranks as the TE27 in RotoBaller's dynasty fantasy football rankings, but there is clear top-15 upside here. Dynasty managers would be wise to trade for Helm before the buy-low window closes.