Who Should I Start? Darren Waller or Cole Kmet

Wednesday, September 17, 2:31 PM

The Miami Dolphins created buzz in July when they signed previously retired tight end Darren Waller, but through two weeks, the 33-year-old has yet to make his debut. Waller last played in 2023 with the Giants, posting 552 yards and 52 catches, but questions remain about whether he can regain his form. For now, the Dolphins have leaned exclusively on Tanner Conner at tight end, who has managed just two receptions for 20 yards on four targets this season. Miami's offense has struggled to find consistent balance, and while the passing attack should feature plenty of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle (if active), the lack of production at tight end remains a glaring hole. Fantasy managers should continue to leave Waller on waivers until there's clarity about his role and timeline for return.

Friday, September 12, 11:25 PM

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet had a quiet season opener, catching just one of four targets for 31 yards in the 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. His lone grab came on the final drive, a highlight-worthy one-handed diving catch over the middle. While rookie Colston Loveland has entered the rotation, Kmet still dominated usage, logging 90% of the snaps compared to Loveland's 56%, and handling 77% of one-tight-end sets versus Loveland's 23%. The volume and role remain encouraging, but the matchup is a major concern in Week 2. The Bears face a Detroit Lions defense that allowed the fewest fantasy points to tight ends in 2024. With a difficult opponent and a reduced ceiling due to Loveland's presence, Kmet is better left on fantasy benches this week.