Who Should I Start? John Bates or Will Mallory

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, January 6, 9:48 PM

Indianapolis Colts tight end Will Mallory (hamstring) has been ruled out for the rest of Saturday's game against the Houston Texans. The rookie tight end exited and was ruled out with a hamstring issue during the second quarter. He failed to haul in his lone target of the contest. Kylen Granson and Mo Alie-Cox will be the primary options at tight end for the rest of this contest.