Key Highlights
- Dallas Goedert of the Philadelphia Eagles is a strong starting option against the Minnesota Vikings.
- Harold Fannin Jr. of the Cleveland Browns has seen increased usage and could benefit from David Njoku’s potential absence.
- Evan Engram of the Denver Broncos presents an upside play due to his recent role in the offense and favorable matchup against the New York Giants.
- Mason Taylor of the New York Jets is a viable starting option given the weakness of the Carolina Panthers’ defense against tight ends.
Starting Tight Ends for Week 7
The start or sit decisions for fantasy football managers are always tricky, especially with tight ends. Here’s what you need to know for Week 7:
Dallas Goedert: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Minnesota Vikings
In a matchup against the tough Minnesota Vikings defense, Dallas Goedert is still a solid choice to start. Earlier in the season, he showed signs of inconsistency but has been racking up targets recently. Over his last two games, Goedert received 20 targets and has scored reliably with five touchdowns over four weeks.
Harold Fannin Jr.: Cleveland Browns vs. Miami Dolphins
Fannin Jr.’s increased usage in Week 6, playing a significant portion of the offensive snaps, makes him an intriguing option this week against the Dolphins. With David Njoku out due to injury, Fannin could see even more targets. He has been the top-scoring Browns tight end multiple times and faces a Dolphins defense that is weak against the position.
Evan Engram: Denver Broncos vs. New York Giants
Engram’s recent rise in targets suggests he may have found a new role with Bo Nix as quarterback. Facing an injury-depleted Giants team, Engram could see increased opportunities to score touchdowns and produce valuable fantasy points.
Sitting Tight Ends for Week 7
Not all tight ends are created equal, and some should be considered on the bench this week:
T.J. Hockenson: Minnesota Vikings vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Hockenson’s consistency has been questioned, with his floor being low despite a decent return from Jordan Addison’s absence. Against a strong Eagles defense that allows few fantasy points to tight ends, it might be wise to avoid starting him.
Hunter Henry: New England Patriots at Tennessee Titans
The targets for Hunter Henry have dried up significantly in recent weeks, and with Drake Maye excelling as the deep threat, the Pats’ quarterback is prioritizing wideouts. Henry faces a Titans defense that is weak against tight ends but might not see enough opportunities to justify starting him.
Juwan Johnson: New Orleans Saints at Chicago Bears
Johnson’s recent slump in targets and production makes him a low-risk, high-reward option if you are looking for a speculative start. However, the floor is still too low against the Bears’ strong defense to recommend starting him.
Conclusion
Fantasy managers need to carefully consider their lineups as we move into Week 7 of the NFL season. Tight ends like Goedert and Engram present high upside plays due to recent usage and favorable matchups, while others like Hockenson and Johnson should be considered on the bench for now.
