Who Should I Start? Tommy Tremble or John Bates

Monday, December 9, 5:07 AM

Carolina Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble caught just one pass for three yards in their 22-16 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. It was a quick, outbreaking route on 4th-and-goal that gave the veteran his first touchdown of the year. Tremble has battled various injuries to his hamstring, back, and head this year, so finding pay dirt in Week 14 was extra meaningful. Still, with rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders (neck) returning this week, Tremble's value moving forward is questionable. Tremble is mainly an option in deep leagues when the Panthers host the Dallas Cowboys in Week 15.

Friday, December 20, 7:20 PM

Washington Commanders tight end John Bates could be in store for an increased role, with Zach Ertz (concussion) listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Ertz suffered this concussion last weekend and could not practice all week, which suggests he will face an uphill battle to pass the league's protocol. When filling in for Ertz last weekend, Bates brought in his lone target for six yards. Earlier this season, Bates caught six of his nine targets for 64 yards and averaged a solid 10.7 yards per reception. However, given his lack of offensive production, even in a reserve role, makes him a high-risk TE2 facing the Eagles. Fantasy managers should look for an alternative option as Bates will have a tough task ahead of him in his first start as the Eagles have allowed the fifth-fewest PPR points to the position this season.