Who Should I Start? Michael Mayer or Tucker Kraft

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.

Thursday, February 5, 11:18 AM

Green Bay Packers tight end Tucker Kraft (knee) suffered a torn ACL in Week 9 of the 2025 season, putting an early end to a promising breakout campaign. Across his eight games played before getting hurt, the 25-year-old recorded 32 receptions for 489 yards and six touchdowns on 44 targets. Even with the injury, recent reporting indicates that the Packers have begun extension negotiations with Kraft, signaling that the young tight end remains a big piece in the team's plans. Green Bay traditionally spreads the ball around to a multitude of pass catchers, which limits Kraft's volume-related production. However, he has proven the ability to be highly efficient on a low number of targets. For his career, Kraft is averaging 13.7 yards per reception and has hauled in 15 touchdown grabs on just 154 total targets. Given the timing of his injury, Kraft has a chance to be ready for the start of the 2026 season. Despite the unfortunate injury setback, Kraft remains a high-end tight end option for dynasty fantasy managers coming out of 2025.