Who Should I Start? Luke Farrell or Payne Durham

Monday, March 10, 4:19 PM

Former Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Luke Farrell agreed to a three-year contract worth up to $20.25 million on Monday with $11 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. It's an addition for the 49ers in free agency that will bolster their tight end depth behind All-Pro George Kittle, who is no stranger to injuries. The 27-year-old Farrell was a former fifth-round selection (145th overall) by the Jaguars in 2021 out of Ohio State. He had 36 receptions on only 47 targets for 318 yards and no touchdowns in 66 games (20 starts) in his four seasons with Jacksonville. Farrell's best season came in 2023, when he caught 13 of his 15 targets for 155 yards. If Eric Saubert leaves as an unrestricted free agent this year, Farrell will have a better shot at being the primary backup to Kittle when games kick off in Week 1 this fall.

Friday, January 10, 5:49 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Payne Durham could once again see an increased role during Sunday's Wild-Card game against the Washington Commanders. Fellow tight end Cade Otton (knee) has been sidelined over the last three games. Otton was able to get in two full practice sessions this week, but is listed as questionable ahead of this game. If he sits, Durham and Devin Culp would once again see more involvement. Durham has hauled in a touchdown in two straight games coming into this one. However, Durham hasn't brought much value to the table outside of that with two receptions or less in both of those games. Durham has also only surpassed 30 receiving yards in one game this season. That being said, Durham will be a touchdown-dependent option, assuming Otton is unable to play. Otherwise, Durham won't be worth a look if Otton is active.