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.

Monday, January 6, 10:27 AM

New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger caught two passes for nine yards during Sunday's Week 18 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Bellinger has stepped up as the Giants' primary tight end with Theo Johnson (foot) on injured reserve, but he played just 58.5 percent of the offensive snaps on Sunday and hasn't been a dependable contributor despite his increased role. Moving forward, the 24-year-old will drop back down to second on the depth chart once Johnson is healthy again. He's off the radar heading into 2025 fantasy football drafts.