Who Should I Start? Zach Ertz or Sam LaPorta

Friday, September 26, 11:00 PM

Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz has gotten off to a strong start to the 2025 season, catching 12 of 16 targets for 128 yards and two touchdowns. Ertz had his quietest game of the young season in last week's blowout win against Las Vegas, catching all three targets for 38 yards. Washington opted for a run-heavy game plan and got ahead big in the second half. Ertz projects for more volume against Atlanta with star receiver Terry McLaurin (quad) out and Noah Brown (groin) missing his second straight game. He'll look to connect early and often with Marcus Mariota, from whom he caught two touchdowns in his short time playing last season. Ertz can be trusted as a low-end TE1 in Week 4.

Friday, September 26, 11:01 PM

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has had a quiet start to his 2025 season, recording 13 catches for 138 yards and zero touchdowns on 17 targets so far. Things don't get any easier on paper for LaPorta in Week 4, as he'll face a Cleveland Browns defense that has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards in the NFL so far this season. On the bright side for the 24-year-old, he still ranks third on the Lions in targets behind wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and running back Jahmyr Gibbs. If Cleveland's fierce pass rush forces Lions quarterback Jared Goff to get the ball out quickly, LaPorta could see a good number of short and intermediate-area pass attempts come his way. LaPorta remains a must-start fantasy tight end in Week 4, but it may be time for fantasy managers to begin adjusting preseason expectations.