Who Should I Start? Mike Gesicki or Cole Kmet

Monday, August 5, 4:20 PM

Cincinnati Bengals tight end Mike Gesicki (undisclosed) is reportedly dealing with "tightness" and is considered "day-to-day," according to head coach Zac Taylor. While it's never ideal to miss time or be limited in practice, this should not be much of a concern. The veteran from Penn State has racked up 260 receptions for 2,861 yards and 20 touchdowns through his first 98 games with the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots. Although the Bengals selected Erick All Jr. in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft, Gesicki could begin the season as the clear TE1 for quarterback Joe Burrow as All works his way back from a torn ACL and adjusts to the NFL. That said, Gesicki likely has limited upside while competing for targets with Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. He is best served as a late-round flier in traditional fantasy leagues and best-ball setups.

Saturday, September 14, 1:47 AM

Chicago Bears tight end Cole Kmet is in a timeshare with Gerald Everett, who out-snapped him and ran more routes in Week 1. Kmet was on the field for less than half of the team's offensive snaps and received just one target during those 27 plays. Given that the Bears passed the ball on 57% of their offensive plays, this lack of involvement stems from the playbook rather than the game script. It appears that specific offensive packages are designed to feature Everett over Kmet. Conversely, with wide receivers Keenan Allen (heel) and Rome Odunze (knee) not practicing and listed as questionable, Kmet could see an increase in targets in Week 2. If the Bears continue to ease rookie quarterback Caleb Williams into the game, particularly with two of his top wideouts potentially limited, Kmet may see more action. Expect him to run more routes, potentially catching three to four passes, with a chance for a red-zone opportunity. While Kmet is a risky, touchdown-dependent play in deep leagues, this could be the week to take a chance on him, given the uncertain status of Allen and Odunze.