Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or AJ Barner

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.

Friday, December 12, 9:56 PM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner (ankle) remains a solid streaming option in Week 15 against an Indianapolis Colts defense that allows 15.5 points per game to opposing tight ends in fantasy. Barner has been relatively inconsistent this season due to variable target volume. However, he has remained an every-down player, and he is always a threat to score a touchdown. Barner's ceiling is tapped by a lack of volume, but he retains a solid floor for the tight end position. With the Colts having trouble containing opposing tight ends, Barner could find room to work, especially with wide receivers Rashid Shaheed and Jaxon Smith-Njigba running wild on the outside. Look for the Seahawks to deploy an effective passing attack on Sunday. If you are dealing with an inconsistent starter or you have been streaming the position this year, you could do worse than Barner this week. Barner has been listed as a full participant on Seattle's injury report this week, but he should be good to go for Sunday.