Who Should I Start? John Bates or Grant Calcaterra

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.

Friday, December 20, 11:19 PM

Philadelphia Eagles tight end Grant Calcaterra will look to contribute against the Washington Commanders in Week 16. Despite starting in place of the injured Dallas Goedert (knee), Calcaterra caught just one pass for 22 yards in the Eagles' 27-13 win over the Steelers. His involvement has been limited, with only two red-zone targets and one touchdown in five starts this season. The Commanders' defense has allowed the fifth-most receiving touchdowns per game to tight ends but ranks seventh in fewest receiving yards allowed to the position. This makes Calcaterra a touchdown-or-bust fantasy option heading into the matchup. Managers should consider more reliable options unless chasing upside in deeper leagues.