Who Should I Start? Drew Sample or Oronde Gadsden

Saturday, September 27, 2:08 PM

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Drew Sample has only three catches this season, with one resulting in a trip to the end zone. The 29-year-old has logged more snaps than Mike Gesicki and Noah Fant (foot) through the first three weeks of the 2025 campaign. However, both have received more attention from quarterbacks Joe Burrow (toe) and Jake Browning. The Bengals offense is a mess, which has been a surprise to most. As a result, it's hard to trust anyone on that side of the ball. Granted, Sample should continue to lead the position in snaps, especially with his abilities as a blocker. Still, while he will likely add a few more scores to his resume before the end of the season, he's not consistent enough to be considered a starting fantasy option in any format in Week 4 versus the Broncos.

Friday, October 10, 6:00 PM

Los Angeles Chargers rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden faces a Miami Dolphins defense this week that ranks eighth-worst in yards allowed per game to tight ends. Despite this favorable matchup, Gadsden's target share has decreased since his first game, where he drew seven targets, as he only caught his single target for 14 yards last week. While the fifth-round pick adds size and talent, the entire Chargers offense is struggling to find consistency due to offensive line issues and penalties, which in turn affects Gadsden's usage. He will likely need Justin Herbert to have ample time in the pocket to earn a meaningful target share. RotoBaller projects Gadsden as TE30. He should stay on your bench and is only a stash for managers in deep dynasty or keeper leagues.