Who Should I Start? Mark Andrews or Sam LaPorta

Friday, December 26, 11:01 AM

Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews hasn't been kind to any fantasy managers that have decided to play him through the fantasy playoffs thus far. The veteran hasn't posted a finish in TE1 territory since Week 11 in half-PPR formats. His Week 17 matchup doesn't make it any easier either, since the Green Bay Packers are ranked eighth against the position over the last four weeks. They only allow 8.65 fantasy points per game to tight ends, and Andrews will more than likely have Tyler Huntley under center, who has targeted Zay Flowers more often. In RotoBaller's projections for Week 17, Andrews is the TE21, which would be a tough start for fantasy managers who are in their championship game.

Tuesday, January 20, 7:10 PM

According to The Athletic's Colton Pouncy, blending new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing's scheme with what the Detroit Lions already do on offense could make tight end Sam LaPorta an "even bigger priority in the passing game" in 2026. Former tight ends coach and current head coach Dan Campbell already clearly values the position. Before having season-ending back surgery, LaPorta was having a Pro Bowl season, catching 40 of his 49 targets for 489 yards and three touchdowns in nine starts. Petzing spent two seasons as the tight ends coach with the Cleveland Browns, and he prioritized the TE position in Arizona, with Trey McBride being one of the best players at his position in the NFL. Petzing isn't expected to run as much 12 personnel (two TEs) in Detroit, given the investments made at the position, but LaPorta could be in for a nice bounce-back year in 2026 if he's healthy.