Who Should I Start? Kyle Pitts Sr. or Michael Mayer

Thursday, August 21, 1:53 PM

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. has been studying historically elite quarterback/tight end relationships and wants to foster that with Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr., according to ESPN's Marc Raimondi. Raimondi says that this is a noteworthy change from how Pitts has spoken about the quarterbacks he has played with in the past. In the three games that Penix Jr. started for the Falcons in 2024, Pitts was targeted 10 times and hauled in seven catches for 65 yards and a touchdown. The 24-year-old tight end remains one of the most physically gifted players at his position, and he may have an opportunity for increased targets early in the season with Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney (shoulder) currently sidelined. Pitts profiles as a fringe TE1 for fantasy with solid upside but a very low floor.

Thursday, August 7, 3:53 PM

ESPN's Ryan McFadden reports that Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer has been a standout in training camp. The Notre Dame product flashed during his rookie campaign, but the addition of Brock Bowers in 2024 was a detriment to Mayer's playing time. While Bowers and new quarterback Geno Smith have quickly gotten on the same page, Mayer has had an excellent camp of his own. The 24-year-old has been an offensive standout since OTAs, per McFadden, who also notes offensive coordinator Chip Kelly has "big plans" for him in 2025. There are undoubtedly targets up for grabs in the Raiders' offense, and Mayer may play a nice role for them. However, that translating to fantasy isn't a guarantee. Bowers and wide receiver Jakobi Meyers are worth rostering for now, but Mayer will have to impress in preseason action before he's worthy of fantasy managers' attention in drafts.