Who Should I Start? James Mitchell or Jeremy Ruckert

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.

Saturday, December 13, 2:41 AM

New York Jets tight end Jeremy Ruckert will assume a starting role this Sunday when his team takes on the Jacksonville Jaguars on the road. Ruckert posted his highest snap share of the campaign in Week 14, but only came away with 19 yards on 2-of-3 receiving while teammate Mason Taylor (neck) dealt with an injury. With Taylor ruled out, the former third-round pick will get a chance to lead New York's TE room. However, he'll do so with rookie quarterback Brady Cook under center. Cook will get the starting nod this week, as fellow QBs Tyrod Taylor (groin) and Justin Fields (knee) have both been deemed out with their respective injuries, lowering the fantasy floor for all Jets' skill players. Even with the expected bump in opportunity, Ruckert can be safely avoided by owners looking for a tight end to stream in the first round of the fantasy playoffs.