Who Should I Start? Darren Waller or Brock Bowers

Saturday, October 4, 11:25 AM

Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller made an immediate impact in Week 4 with three catches on four targets for 47 yards and two touchdowns. He'll look to continue his big contributions in Week 5 against the Panthers, who have been a favorable matchup for tight ends this season. Waller only played 16 snaps (28%) in his return from retirement, but he said he's ready for "a jump" in his snap count if that's what his coaches want. Without Tyreek Hill (knee), Waller could be the second option for Tua Tagovailoa behind top receiver Jaylen Waddle. He should find space to work against the Panthers, who have allowed the second-most yards per game to the position in the NFL. Waller is still volatile after just a one-week sample size, but he's a viable emergency option as RotoBaller's TE16 this week.

Saturday, October 4, 4:14 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers (knee) is trending toward missing Sunday's Week 5 contest against the Indianapolis Colts, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The star tight end is currently listed as questionable after missing his last two practice sessions. Rapoport notes that head coach Pete Carroll previously expressed optimism about Bowers' status, but his knee has not responded well, and he's trending in the wrong direction. Fantasy managers will get confirmation on his status at 11:30 a.m. ET on Sunday. If Bowers is active, managers should start him in all leagues. If he doesn't play, managers can pivot to one of the top streamers on RotoBaller's Week 5 tight end rankings. Bowers' backup, Michael Mayer, could be a solid mid-to-high TE2 option.