Who Should I Start? James Mitchell or Darnell Washington

Wednesday, September 24, 6:20 PM

Carolina Panthers tight end James Mitchell has an opportunity to make some noise with Ja'Tavion Sanders (ankle) expected to miss multiple weeks with a high-ankle sprain, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN. Tommy Tremble will move to the top of the Panthers' TE depth chart with Sanders injured, but he's more of a blocker than a pass-catcher, so Mitchell might have a chance to make some noise going forward in his first year in Carolina. The 26-year-old former fifth-round selection (177th overall) by the Detroit Lions in 2022 out of Virginia Tech has caught all 13 of his targets for 141 yards and one touchdown in 30 games played (one start) in his three NFL seasons with the Lions before joining the Panthers on a reserve/futures contract back in January. Mitchell is only worth a look on the waiver wire in the deepest of fantasy leagues at the moment.

Tuesday, October 14, 9:07 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Darnell Washington came down with three of his five targets for 62 yards in a Week 6 victory against the Cleveland Browns. While it marked the second straight contest in which Washington led Pittsburgh's tight end room in snaps, it was his first time besting both Jonnu Smith and Pat Freiermuth in targets this season. Given how well the Steelers have operated offensively lately, Washington should remain involved in a Week 7 divisional clash against the Cincinnati Bengals. He hasn't done quite enough yet to warrant consideration in fantasy lineups, but Washington is trending positively and will be a name to watch on Thursday night.