Who Should I Start? Darren Waller or Sam LaPorta

Saturday, September 27, 6:24 PM

Miami Dolphins tight end Darren Waller (hip) doesn't carry an injury designation for Monday's Week 4 matchup against the New York Jets. Finally, Waller is ready to make his season debut after missing the first three games due to a hip issue. This marks the first time that Waller has played in a game since the 2023 season. That being said, fantasy managers can't be certain what they're going to get from the 33-year-old. Waller could be worth a stash for tight end needy fantasy managers. However, it's unlikely that Waller is going to have a huge role in the offense during his first game.

Friday, September 26, 11:01 PM

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has had a quiet start to his 2025 season, recording 13 catches for 138 yards and zero touchdowns on 17 targets so far. Things don't get any easier on paper for LaPorta in Week 4, as he'll face a Cleveland Browns defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards in the NFL so far this season. On the bright side for the 24-year-old, he still ranks third on the Lions in targets behind wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. If Cleveland's fierce pass rush forces Lions quarterback Jared Goff to get the ball out quickly, LaPorta could see a good number of short and intermediate-area pass attempts come his way. LaPorta remains a must-start fantasy tight end in Week 4, but it may be time for fantasy managers to begin adjusting preseason expectations.