Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or Colston Loveland

Wednesday, November 26, 7:42 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer (ankle) was a non-participant in the team's first practice of the week on Wednesday due to an ankle issue, according to Ryan McFadden of ESPN. Mayer only played 13 offensive snaps in Sunday's loss to the Cleveland Browns before injuring his ankle and never returning. The 24-year-old's status is now up in the air for this weekend's divisional rematch against the Los Angeles Chargers. Mayer has not been a realistic TE2 fantasy football streamer this year as long as Brock Bowers has been healthy. In nine total games, the former second-rounder in 2023 out of Notre Dame has 22 catches for 182 yards and only one touchdown on 32 targets. If Mayer is unavailable to play against L.A. on Sunday, it should open up more playing time for rookies Dont'e Thornton Jr. and Jack Bech in three-wide sets.

Thursday, November 27, 7:59 AM

Chicago Bears rookie tight end Colston Loveland hauled in four of five targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in the 31-28 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Loveland has emerged as a key contributor in this Bears' passing attack, totaling 40 or more yards in four straight weeks. However, veteran Cole Kmet remains a factor, splitting the snaps evenly in Week 12 (65%). While Loveland is showcasing his potential, the Bears are the fifth-most run-heavy team in the NFL, and have seven receivers who have 195 yards or more on the season. Loveland faces a tough matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, who have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season. With a crowded receiving room and a tough matchup, Loveland is a risky start in Week 13.