Who Should I Start? John Bates or Daniel Bellinger

Friday, December 20, 7:20 PM

Washington Commanders tight end John Bates could be in store for an increased role, with Zach Ertz (concussion) listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Ertz suffered this concussion last weekend and could not practice all week, which suggests he will face an uphill battle to pass the league's protocol. When filling in for Ertz last weekend, Bates brought in his lone target for six yards. Earlier this season, Bates caught six of his nine targets for 64 yards and averaged a solid 10.7 yards per reception. However, given his lack of offensive production, even in a reserve role, makes him a high-risk TE2 facing the Eagles. Fantasy managers should look for an alternative option as Bates will have a tough task ahead of him in his first start as the Eagles have allowed the fifth-fewest PPR points to the position this season.

Saturday, December 21, 1:33 AM

New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger heads into Week 16 against the Atlanta Falcons looking to build on steady production as the team's lone starting tight end since Theo Johnson's season-ending injury. Over the past two games, Bellinger has tallied eight receptions on 10 targets for 80 yards, averaging 10 yards per catch but has yet to find the end zone. The Falcons' defense has been tough on tight ends recently, ranking 4th in fewest fantasy points allowed to the position over the past four weeks. However, Atlanta's overall struggles against the pass (225.9 yards allowed per game, 27 passing touchdowns surrendered) leave a glimmer of upside for Bellinger, giving the Giants hope in favorable game scripts.