George Kittle, 49ers: My favorite start at tight end this week is Kittle. Tight ends have done a great job against Tampa Bay (Tampa is the third-worst team versus opposing tight ends), including Travis Kelce, who just had a terrific week last Monday night. Tampa Bay’s pass rush is good but not good enough to force Kittle to block, so he’ll be able to go out on a lot of passing routes. Speaking of those routes, Tampa allows the third most yards per target to opposing tight ends, too. This could be one of those weeks where we see Kittle catch multiple touchdowns.
Cade Otton, Bucs
If you ask me right now if Cade Otton is one of the top five tight ends in football, the answer would unequivocally be yes. He is the number one option for Baker Mayfield with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin injured, and he has proven to be a reliable target even in the most difficult of situations. San Francisco is a tough defense and stingy against tight ends, but Otton is a huge target who never leaves the field. Look for him to have about 5 or 6 catches for 60 yards with a great chance of a touchdown.
Dalton Kincaid, Bills
The Colts have given up touchdowns in droves to opposing tight ends (the second-most in the league). Rookie receiver Keon Coleman is in danger of missing this game and Amari Cooper is not necessarily playing at 100% either. Allen may be forced to rely on Shakir and Kincaid more than ever which should be a perfect opportunity for Kincaid to get about 12 to 14 fantasy points.
T.J Hockenson, Vikings
Hockenson did not play a full load of snaps against the Colts but I expect that to change in his second week back against Jacksonville. Minnesota should have their way on offense as the Jacksonville defense will be tired from playing so many reps on defense with Trevor Lawrence out. Look for Hockenson to be used as a force in the red zone and I expect that he will be doing a touchdown celebration on Sunday.
Taysom Hill, Saints
At this point, the Saints are running out of players on offense. Chris Olave has not been cleared yet, and they might be forced to lean on Hill as they did last week. Look for Hill to play multiple roles, including backup running back, backup tight end, and Wildcat quarterback. Hill’s value mainly comes from his touchdown equity—don’t forget that he had two touchdowns the last time these teams played–and I think he gets another one this week.