Who Should I Start? Zach Ertz or T.J. Hockenson

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 19, 7:23 PM

Faced with another solid opportunity for production, Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson is a low-end TE1 candidate against the Cincinnati Bengals, though fantasy managers could certainly be forgiven for being leery about his potential following two straight duds. The veteran tight end is facing a plus matchup for tight ends against the Bengals' defense, but is also coming into the game with four catches, 27 total yards, and zero red-zone targets in two games. Most concerning, the Vikings will be without starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy (ankle) and could be starting three offensive linemen -- from left tackle to center -- with a combined two NFL starts. It's clear the Vikings are going to have to be more creative offensively in the following weeks, however, and that should mean more involvement for Hockenson.