Who Should I Start? Jake Ferguson or Brock Bowers

Sunday, August 17, 10:48 PM

Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson (back) did not play during the team's preseason contest against the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday. The 26-year-old was sidelined near the start of the month, and although he returned to the practice field roughly one week ago, it appears that he wasn't healthy enough to play in Dallas' second preseason game. As a result, the Cowboys gave more passing opportunities to tight ends John Stephens Jr. and Princeton Fant. However, in reality, Devyn Spann-Ford and Luke Schoonmaker would be first in line to replace Ferguson if he's unable to suit up in Week 1. He's still an intriguing fringe top-12 fantasy tight end with Dak Prescott back under center this year. Even last year, while catching passes from both Prescott and Cooper Rush, Ferguson caught 59 passes for 494 yards. He did not catch a touchdown, finishing 2024 with double-digit fantasy points in just three of his 14 games. However, positive touchdown regression could vault him back up into the top-12 or top-15 range this year.

Saturday, August 16, 6:45 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers has seen his role shift under the new coaching staff in preseason games this year. After a dominant rookie year with 112 receptions for 1,194 yards and five touchdowns, Bowers was out-snapped 8-to-5 by Michael Mayer on Saturday. Mayer handled most first- and second-down work, while Bowers appeared primarily on third downs and passing situations. It's unclear if this is simply preseason management to limit wear and tear or an early sign of a new rotation. While still a TE1 with elite upside, Bowers' usage should be monitored heading into Week 1.