Who Should I Start? Sam LaPorta or Harold Fannin Jr.

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.

Monday, December 22, 8:56 PM

Cleveland Browns tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has strengthened his status as a must-add player on the fantasy football waiver wire in Week 17. The rookie enjoyed another dominant performance against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, catching four passes for 34 yards and a touchdown. He handled an 86% target share in the loss, largely due to the continued absence of fellow tight end David Njoku (knee). Fannin now has 22 catches, 239 yards, and three touchdowns over his last four games, ranking as the overall TE3 in fantasy football during that span. His upside depends on whether Njoku is in the lineup, but even if the veteran tight end returns to action this week, Fannin should remain a top-five fantasy tight end while operating as Shedeur Sanders' favorite target. He'll now be tasked with facing off against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points, fourth-most catches, fourth-most receiving yards, and second-most receptions to opposing tight ends in 2025. Fannin is a priority addition who should be rostered and started in all leagues.