Who Should I Start? Zach Ertz or Jonnu Smith

Wednesday, December 3, 11:54 AM

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz had a monster game in Week 13, recording 10 catches for 106 yards on 13 targets against the Denver Broncos. The 35-year-old has been a stable producer in recent weeks, recording at least four catches and 42 receiving yards in each of his last four games. Perhaps most importantly for Ertz's production upside, Washington could be getting quarterback Jayden Daniels (elbow) back from injury in the coming weeks, possibly even as soon as Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings. Across 23 career games where Ertz has shared the field with Daniels, he's recorded 11 touchdown catches. While Ertz's fantasy value still mostly comes from his stable floor, his touchdown upside skyrockets with Daniels on the field. Ertz could establish himself as a consistent low-end starting fantasy tight end if Daniels does indeed return in early December.

Saturday, November 29, 4:35 PM

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith has seen limited work in the offense over the last few weeks. Since Week 10, Smith has seen a combined seven targets and two rushing attempts. The 30-year-old has yet to be a consistent fantasy option and has only had two productive weeks this season. Entering Week 13, Smith will face a tough Buffalo Bills passing defense that has allowed the fewest receiving yards this season. However, the Bills' run defense has allowed the third-most rushing yards this season. The Steelers' offense may want to establish the run game early against a run-funnel Bills defense and take pressure off quarterback Aaron Rodgers (wrist), who is still battling a left wrist injury. Smith is difficult to trust for fantasy managers heading into Week 13 and is mainly an option in deep leagues.