Who Should I Start? Sam LaPorta or Michael Mayer

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Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.		 Rush.
Yds.		 Rush
TD		 Rec. Rec.
Yds.		 Rec
TD
11.2 0.0 0.0 4.2 48.5 0.3

Sam LaPorta News

Sam LaPorta Reminding the Lions What They Missed

Wednesday, August 12, 5:49 AM

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta missed the final eight games of 2025 with a herniated disc in his back, but once again healthy and unencumbered, he's made his presence felt throughout training camp, with senior team writer Tim Twentyman noting that he's reminded the team just how much he was missed to end the year. A day after quarterback Jared Goff called him a "stud" while speaking with the media, the two connected on back-to-back plays during a competitive portion of Tuesday's practice, following a big gain down the seam with a nine-yard touchdown. LaPorta was the TE1 as a rookie in 2023, and after a quieter second season, he was pacing as the TE7 through his first nine games of 2025. With a major role projected in Drew Petzing's tight end-friendly offense, he is RotoBaller's TE6 for 2026.

BENCH

Week 1 Projections

Fant.
Pts.		 Rush.
Yds.		 Rush
TD		 Rec. Rec.
Yds.		 Rec
TD
5.0 0.0 0.0 2.2 21.3 0.1

Michael Mayer News

Michael Mayer Caps Off First Drive with a Touchdown

Friday, August 14, 4:55 PM

Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer had a fast start to the preseason despite the 27-14 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Quarterback Kirk Cousins ended the first drive with a 13-yard touchdown pass to Mayer, who ended up with two receptions for 19 yards and that touchdown. With Raiders' TE1 Brock Bowers playing a single snap to start the game, Mayer had the opportunity to score. If Bowers were to miss any time this year, Mayer might have the best opportunity of his career to find success in what should be the best passing offense he has been a part of since entering the NFL. As RotoBaller's TE32 overall, Mayer likely won't be a major factor in redraft leagues but could prove to be an upside stash in dynasty leagues with this being the final year of his contract in Las Vegas.

Sam LaPorta vs. Michael Mayer

Still trying to decide between LaPorta and Mayer? Check on the latest news to make sure both players are active and healthy. Our PPR projections show that Sam LaPorta is projected to score 11.2 points this week while Michael Mayer is projected to score 5.0 points.