Who Should I Start? Jake Tonges or Oronde Gadsden

Friday, February 13, 7:21 AM

Heading into the 2025 season, San Francisco 49ers tight end Jake Tonges had not recorded a single catch across 20 career NFL games. However, the 26-year-old took advantage of his opportunity in San Francisco, recording 34 receptions for 293 yards and five touchdowns across 17 games played. The majority of Tonges' production came in a five-week stretch from Weeks 2 through 6 when star 49ers tight end George Kittle (Achilles) was sidelined by a hamstring injury. In that span, Tonges hauled in 22 catches for 209 yards and two touchdowns on 31 targets. However, Tonges may see a similar opportunity in 2026, as Kittle suffered a torn Achilles tendon in San Francisco's NFC Wild Card round win over the Philadelphia Eagles and is expected to miss time next season. Tonges is set to hit restricted free agency this spring, but it seems likely that the 49ers prioritize bringing him back, given Kittle's injury situation. In dynasty formats, Tonges may be a tight end to target for his chance at 2026 production and the possibility that he could be the long-term successor to Kittle in San Francisco.

Sunday, January 11, 7:02 PM

Los Angeles Chargers rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden displayed his versatility and developed a strong connection with Justin Herbert during the 2025 NFL season. The 22-year-old had 49 catches for 664 yards and three touchdowns on 69 targets. Gadsden was a pleasant surprise for fantasy managers who were able to snipe him off waivers in his rookie season. Entering Wild Card Weekend, Gadsden will face a solid New England Patriots defense. The Patriots' defense allowed the fourth-fewest rushing touchdowns and the sixth-fewest rushing yards, while having one of the NFL's mild passing defenses. This could favor the Gadsden and the Chargers' passing attack. If the Chargers have a slow start running the football, they could turn Herbert's arm loose early. Gadsden could see a good number of targets against an average NFL passing defense in his NFL playoff game.