Who Should I Start? George Kittle or Michael Mayer

Sunday, November 16, 9:29 PM

San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle had a vintage game in Week 11, recording six catches for 67 yards and two touchdowns on six targets in his team's 41-22 win over the Arizona Cardinals. Kittle showed off his established chemistry with 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, who made his first start since Week 4. The 32-year-old Kittle has now hauled in 27 catches for 251 yards and five touchdowns on 30 targets across six games played this season. He's heating up of late, recording 15 receptions for 151 yards and three scores over the last two weeks. Kittle profiles as a must-start tight end heading into a Week 12 matchup against the Carolina Panthers.

Thursday, November 6, 10:08 AM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer lost his starting role in Week 9 with the return of Brock Bowers, but he remained involved in the offense. Despite operating as the TE2, Mayer caught three of seven targets for 26 yards in the 30-29 loss to Jacksonville. Notably, he still played 83% of the snaps as Las Vegas used 12 personnel (two-tight-end sets) on 58.3% of their plays, which is their highest rate this season. With Jakobi Meyers now in Jacksonville, the Raiders are likely to continue leaning on heavier formations, which should keep Mayer on the field. However, the matchup is difficult this week. Denver has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to tight ends, but their strong pass rush could force Mayer into increased blocking duties rather than receiving work. Mayer should remain on fantasy benches in Week 10.