Who Should I Start? Sam LaPorta or Brock Bowers

Friday, November 21, 12:17 PM

According to Detroit Football Network's Justin Rogers, Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta (back) is likely to miss the remainder of the season after successful surgery on his back. The 24-year-old was amid a rebound campaign, posting a 40/489/3 line before sustaining a back injury in their 44-22 win over the Commanders in Week 10. However, his status quickly deteriorated, and he's now facing a significant recovery. Fellow tight end Brock Wright (ankle) will operate as Detroit's TE1 in his teammate's stead, with Ross Dwelley working in behind him. Neither projects to be particularly useful for fantasy.

Saturday, December 6, 7:02 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers is coming off an awesome two-touchdown game against the Los Angeles Chargers last week. Bowers hauled in all four of his targets for 63 yards and two trips to the end zone in the loss. This marked the first time that Bowers has scored a touchdown since Week 9. Fantasy managers are finally getting the elite tight end that they drafted at the beginning of the season. The expectation is that Bowers will see heavy usage this weekend. The Raiders only have three healthy wide receivers, so there's not a ton of competition for Bowers. The 22-year-old is by far the best receiving option on the team. He was held in check during his last outing versus the Denver Broncos in Week 10, catching one of three targets for 31 yards. Bowers will seek revenge in a home matchup this weekend. Fantasy managers should plug in Bowers as a high-end TE1 for this weekend.