Who Should I Start? Darren Waller or Mike Gesicki

Tuesday, October 7, 10:35 AM

Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller missed the first three games of the season with a hip injury, but he has made a huge impact in the last two weeks. He had two touchdowns against the Jets in his first game after returning following a year in retirement, and he found the end zone again in Week 5 against the Panthers. His snap count jumped from 16 (28%) in his debut to 32 (58%) in his second game back, and he should continue to get as much run as he can handle. Last year, Jonnu Smith was a productive tight end with Tua Tagovailoa, and Waller looks like he can be as he ramps up this season. Waller will help carry the load for Miami with Tyreek Hill (knee) out for the season, as Jaylen Waddle takes over the top receiver role. He's a fringe TE1 at this point, but if he stays healthy, it looks like he'll be able to be a solid standard-league starter in favorable matchups.

Saturday, October 4, 2:05 PM

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki has taken a major step back after his bounce-back campaign in 2024. Through four games, Gesicki has just six receptions for 46 yards and has been on the field for only 44% of Cincinnati's snaps, trailing Drew Sample (53%) and sharing time with Noah Fant (37%). His highest usage came in Week 4 at 62%, but that was primarily due to Fant missing the game with a concussion. With Fant set to return in Week 5, Gesicki's role should shrink again. The matchup isn't favorable either, as the Bengals face the Detroit Lions, who have allowed the tenth-fewest receptions to tight ends this season. Add in the Bengals' offensive line's struggles, and the Bengals' passing game remains limited without Joe Burrow. Gesicki doesn't hold enough volume or upside to be trusted in fantasy.