Story perspectives

Top Tight Ends to Start: Goedert, Waller, Pitts Shine

12/18/2025

Summary

Tight Ends Thrive

In Week 16, Dallas Goedert, Darren Waller, and Kyle Pitts Sr. are must-start tight ends due to favorable matchups.
Goedert scored 25 points last week and faces a weak Washington defense.
Waller, coming off two touchdowns, faces the Bengals, who struggle against tight ends.
Pitts Sr. had a standout performance recently and is expected to excel against the Cardinals.
Fantasy managers should finalize lineups carefully as playoffs approach.

Summary

Quarterbacks Struggle

Philip Rivers, the Colts' quarterback, returned after five years and completed 2 of 10 passes beyond five yards, with a 5.2 aDOT.
Trevor Lawrence threw five touchdowns, mainly to running backs.
Patrick Mahomes suffered a torn ACL, and Gardner Minshew finished for the Chiefs.
Justin Jefferson's production declined without Carson Wentz, averaging 8.9 PPR points per game.
Kenny Pickett struggled in his start, ranking last in EPA per play.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 NFL season marked a significant evolution in tight end performance, highlighted by George Kittle's record 1,377 receiving yards, surpassing Travis Kelce's previous record of 1,336 yards. This trend reflects a broader shift in offensive strategies, as teams increasingly leverage tight ends in passing games, impacting fantasy football dynamics as playoffs approach. The season also saw Patrick Mahomes emerge as a key quarterback, winning the MVP award.

1 of 3

Tight Ends Thrive

In Week 16, Dallas Goedert, Darren Waller, and Kyle Pitts Sr. are must-start tight ends due to favorable matchups.
Goedert scored 25 points last week and faces a weak Washington defense.
Waller, coming off two touchdowns, faces the Bengals, who struggle against tight ends.
Pitts Sr. had a standout performance recently and is expected to excel against the Cardinals.
Fantasy managers should finalize lineups carefully as playoffs approach.

1 / 3