Who Should I Start? T.J. Hockenson or Pat Freiermuth

Friday, December 12, 4:14 PM

Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson (shin) is coming off a highlight-worthy touchdown last week, but a decrease in passing volume will once again keep him as a low-end TE2 option when the Vikings travel to Dallas in Week 15. Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy played the best game of his NFL career last week, which coincided with a tight-end-friendly gameplan. All three of McCarthy's passing touchdowns went to tight ends -- two to Josh Oliver and one to Hockenson -- but just three overall targets went Hockenson's way as Minnesota prioritized its running game. The Cowboys have been abysmal against the pass overall, surrendering the most passing touchdowns and second-most yards, but receivers have done much more damage: Dallas ranks a respectable 11th against half-PPR tight ends. While Hockenson is off the injury report, he's averaging just 3.5 catches and 28.5 yards per game, so he's best saved for formats that start more than one tight end.

Saturday, December 13, 1:02 PM

Although Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth's fantasy value has been almost entirely touchdown-dependent this season, he could see more opportunities than usual on Monday night against the Miami Dolphins. Miami's defense has been strong in recent weeks, but it has still struggled to contain opposing tight ends. On the season, the Dolphins have surrendered the third-most fantasy points per contest to the position. Furthermore, fellow tight end Darnell Washington (concussion) has not yet cleared the league's concussion protocol and should be considered questionable to suit up. While Freiermuth's role has been inconsistent at best, he has been more efficient with his touches than Jonnu Smith. He shouldn't be considered a reliable option in most redraft formats, but Freiermuth could be a sneaky play in deeper fantasy leagues this week.