Who Should I Start? Pat Freiermuth or Michael Mayer

Saturday, October 11, 12:20 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth has been underwhelming in his fifth professional season and will look to turn things around against the Cleveland Browns in Week 6. With wide receiver Calvin Austin III (shoulder) sidelined this week, quarterback Aaron Rodgers could target his tight ends more frequently, but it's difficult to predict who will benefit most at the position. Though Freiermuth and Jonnu Smith were expected to be featured in the offense early on, it was Darnell Washington who led the group in snaps in Week 4. Given Cleveland's strong defensive front, the big-bodied Washington could be in line for more opportunities on Sunday, further limiting Freiermuth's fantasy output. Fantasy managers should steer clear of Pittsburgh's tight ends this week, leaving Freiermuth on the waiver wire in most formats.

Friday, October 10, 9:01 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer is on track to return in Week 6 after being a full participant in practice throughout the week. Mayer has not played since suffering a concussion on September 21 but is expected to reclaim the starting role with Brock Bowers (knee) still sidelined. While Mayer doesn't offer the same explosive playmaking ability as Bowers, his steady hands and blocking versatility should make him a reliable complementary option in the Raiders offense. Fantasy managers, however, should temper expectations--Mayer is projected as TE17 this week, placing him outside the starting range in standard leagues. Still, with Bowers' recovery timeline uncertain, Mayer could see expanded opportunities in the weeks ahead and is worth monitoring as a potential streamer or stash in deeper formats.