Who Should I Start? Jonnu Smith or Colston Loveland

Friday, November 21, 8:41 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith failed to catch a single pass in Week 11, marking his first game without a reception since Week 4 of last season. Though the matchup against the Chicago Bears is favorable, there is little reason to expect Smith to bounce back to fantasy relevance in Week 12. The Steelers remain unpredictable in how they deploy their tight ends, with Smith, Pat Freiermuth, and Darnell Washington all playing significant snaps. It is clear, however, that Smith's fantasy value is entirely touchdown-dependent, as he has topped 20 receiving yards just four times this year. As the TE29 in RotoBaller's Week 12 rankings, fantasy managers should look elsewhere for a streaming option.

Thursday, November 27, 7:59 AM

Chicago Bears rookie tight end Colston Loveland hauled in four of five targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in the 31-28 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Loveland has emerged as a key contributor in this Bears' passing attack, totaling 40 or more yards in four straight weeks. However, veteran Cole Kmet remains a factor, splitting the snaps evenly in Week 12 (65%). While Loveland is showcasing his potential, the Bears are the fifth-most run-heavy team in the NFL, and have seven receivers who have 195 yards or more on the season. Loveland faces a tough matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, who have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season. With a crowded receiving room and a tough matchup, Loveland is a risky start in Week 13.