Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or Colston Loveland

Tuesday, February 17, 9:49 AM

Once viewed as a top-10 dynasty tight end following his early-second round selection in the 2023 NFL draft, Las Vegas Raiders three-year veteran Michael Mayer has seen his stock dip season after season. With the Raiders bringing in an entirely new coaching staff for the second year in a row, Mayer has again seen his name floated in trade speculation, with dynasty managers hoping a change of scenery can revive his value. A dominant receiving tight end while at Notre Dame, Mayer has shown the occasional flash with the Raiders, notably finishing the 2025 season with 136 yards on 14 targets while Brock Bowers was sidelined for Weeks 17 and 18. If Mayer is indeed traded, he should see his value spike, but even if he remains in Las Vegas, new head coach Klint Kubiak could find more creative uses for a player that still ranks among the most talented offensive weapons on the team.

Friday, February 20, 9:20 AM

Across 16 games as a rookie in 2025, Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland recorded 58 receptions for 713 yards and six touchdowns on 82 targets. Loveland's season-long numbers are strong, but the 21-year-old truly took off down the stretch of the season. Including the playoffs, Loveland hauled in 39 catches for 500 yards and three scores on 63 targets over his final seven contests. Loveland showed off an improved chemistry with Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, and could be primed for a superstar breakout in his second NFL season. Between wide receivers DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and Luther Burden III, Chicago has plenty of capable pass-catchers who could provide significant target competition for Loveland. Still, the young tight end should be a focus of his team's offense and could dominate playing time at his position in 2026 if the Bears move on from veteran tight end Cole Kmet over the offseason. Loveland profiles as an elite fantasy tight end in dynasty formats after his rookie campaign.