Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or Gunnar Helm


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
5.0 0.0 0.0 2.2 21.3 0.1

Michael Mayer News

Michael Mayer Caps Off First Drive with a Touchdown

Friday, August 14, 4:55 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer had a fast start to the preseason despite the 27-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Quarterback Kirk Cousins ended the first drive with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Mayer, who ended up with two receptions for 19 yards and that touchdown. With Raiders' TE1 Brock Bowers playing a single snap to start the game, Mayer had the opportunity to score. If Bowers were to miss any time this year, Mayer might have the best opportunity of his career to find success in what should be the best passing offense he has been a part of since entering the NFL. As RotoBaller's TE32 overall, Mayer likely won't be a major factor in redraft leagues but could prove to be an upside stash in dynasty leagues with this being the final year of his contract in Las Vegas.


Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.
Rush.
Yds.
Rush
TD
Rec. Rec.
Yds.
Rec
TD
7.1 0.0 0.0 3.1 27.8 0.2

Gunnar Helm News

Gunnar Helm Splits Reps with Bellinger Against 49ers

Friday, August 14, 7:12 PM

Tennessee Titans tight end Gunnar Helm hauled in his only target for 16 yards in the team's 19-13 win over the San Francisco 49ers. Helm caught a screen pass on third-and-long and took it for a first down. The bad news was that a split was evident between him and former New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger. Helm played 14 of 21 first-team snaps, while Bellinger played 13 of 21. His past relationship with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll is likely to make him a factor in this offense, and we should continue to see a split between the two. The second-year tight end was hoping for an expanded role after Chig Okonkwo joined the Washington Commanders, but that appears not to be the case entering 2026. While some lists have Helm as a strong late-round fantasy draft pick, it may be best to pass on him and look for other options this season.


Michael Mayer vs. Gunnar Helm

Still trying to decide between Mayer and Helm? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Michael Mayer is projected to score 5.0 points this week while Gunnar Helm is projected to score 7.1 points.