The fantasy football regular season is behind us. What’s done is done. Now, it’s all about the playoffs. No matter your standings, what matters is that you’re in the mix, and anything can happen from here on out.
However, there’s no time to relax. We need to squeeze every possible edge we can find right now—especially at tight end.
This week, Week 15, presents some intriguing matchups. Tight ends are often overlooked, making them potential gold on the waiver wire. If you’re in a deeper league, you might also stumble upon some surprising flex options.
This week’s top tight end pickups should include Isaiah Riley or, if he’s available, Mark Andrews. The Ravens are set to face the Bengals. For those who might not be aware, the Bengals rank a dismal 30th in DVOA, allowing the highest fantasy points per game to tight ends. They’re basically the worst defense for this position in NFL history—allowing more receptions, yards, and touchdowns than any team ever has.
Last Sunday, they gave up 11 catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns to a tight end against the Bills. Just think about what Andrews and Riley could achieve!
If both Ravens are unavailable, consider Seattle’s AJ Varner. The Seahawks will go up against the Colts, who sit 24th in DVOA against tight ends. They give up about seven catches for 72 yards, ranking in the top five for fantasy points allowed at the position.
Varner has a staggering 70% snap share and leads the team’s tight ends in targets and receptions. He hasn’t scored since Week 5, but he maintains a solid floor with about five catches per game over the last month.
You might also think about Mason Taylor of the Jets, facing a Jaguars team that concedes the second-most fantasy points to tight ends, though there’s uncertainty around who his quarterback will be.
Instead, consider Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith, especially with Darnell Washington in concussion protocol, as they face Miami—who allows the third highest fantasy points to tight ends.
Pittsburgh typically utilizes a two-tight-end setup. Usually, Washington is paired with Pat Friermuth for most of the action. If Washington can’t play, Friermuth could stick closer to the line, opening opportunities for Smith. It might seem risky, but considering the playoffs, anything can transpire.
You know the saying: dance with the one who brought you, but sometimes it makes sense to switch partners. This doesn’t mean you should replace a star like George Kittle or Trey McBride with a Ravens tight end, but if you’re leaning on Evan Engram or Cade Otton, maybe it’s time to rethink your options. Fantasy playoffs are upon us, and each point is crucial.
