Who Should I Start? Josh Oliver or Michael Mayer

Sunday, October 5, 2:08 PM

Minnesota Vikings tight end Josh Oliver scored a touchdown for the second time in three weeks, finishing with two catches for 35 yards and a touchdown in the Vikings' 21-17 victory against Cleveland. The blocking-focused tight end was the secret weapon on a trick play, leaking through the Browns' defense with backup running back Cam Akers in a Wildcat look, which led to a 32-yard scoring connection for the Vikings' first touchdown. Oliver nearly had a second score, but was tackled inside the five on his only other catch. He remains an unpredictable, touchdown-dependent play, but deserves some roster consideration in deeper formats.

Thursday, December 11, 10:26 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer (ankle) was a full participant in practice on Thursday. This was an upgrade for the backup tight end after he logged a limited practice session on Wednesday. Mayer is working his way back from a two-game absence, and it looks like he should suit up against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 15, barring any sort of setback. The 24-year-old is one of the better backup tight ends in the NFL, but he still doesn't handle enough volume in his role behind Brock Bowers to justify starting him in fantasy football. To make matters worse, Mayer will likely be catching passes from Kenny Pickett this week with Geno Smith (shoulder, back) not expected to play.