Who Should I Start? Jonnu Smith or Theo Johnson

Saturday, December 13, 1:48 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith has just five receptions over his past five games but will look to get more involved against his former team, the Miami Dolphins, in Week 15. This is an enticing matchup for Smith, as Miami has surrendered the third-most fantasy points per contest to opposing tight ends this season. While Smith's biggest concern remains his inconsistent utilization, he could draw additional looks on Monday night if fellow tight end Darnell Washington (concussion) is ruled out. The potential for cold temperatures and strong winds also works in Smith's favor, as he primarily operates near the line of scrimmage and generates yards after the catch. He's far from a reliable fantasy starter, but the 30-year-old could surprise in this revenge game and has some appeal as a streaming option in deeper leagues.

Monday, December 15, 11:00 PM

Across 14 games this season, New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson has recorded 45 receptions for 528 yards and five touchdowns on 72 targets. While the 24-year-old has yet to demonstrate explosive upside, he's been highly consistent. Johnson has recorded exactly three catches in seven of his last eight games and double-digit PPR fantasy points in six out of his last eleven contests. Johnson has also dominated tight end snaps in New York this season, playing 80% or more of the team's offensive snaps in 12 out of 14 weeks. The Giants will host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 16 before a more favorable matchup in Week 17 in Las Vegas against the Raiders. In fantasy leagues with 12 or more teams, Johnson could be worth targeting as a streaming option off the waiver wire at the tight end position.