• ShareCopied to clipboard

Start/Sit: Tight Ends (Week 17)

December 22, 2025

START

Dalton Schultz vs Chargers

Schultz continues to be one of the most reliable TE’s heading into championship week, especially in PPR perspective. His steady target share in the middle of the field gives him a safe floor, and he’s shown solid red-zone chemistry with his QB. Even when the offense isn’t firing on all cylinders, Schultz finds a way to stay involved, making him dependable in a week where consistency matters most.

Theo Johnson at Raiders

Johnson has quietly emerged as a sneaky upside play at TE, particularly over the last few weeks. His athleticism and growing snap count have translated into more designed looks, and he’s becoming a preferred option on short-to-immediate routes. He was held without a catch in week 16, however that was due to Flores’ scheme against opposing offenses, so I wouldn’t worry about that. Against a defense that struggles to contain TE’s, Johnson has legitimate breakout potential and is worth starting if you’re chasing upside in Week 17.

Jake Ferguson at Commanders

Ferguson remains locked in as one of the top red-zone TE’s in the league, which alone makes him a strong start. His connection with the QB near the goal line had been consistent all season, he rarely leaves the field in high-leverage situations. In a week where TD’s can swing championships, Ferguson’s scoring potential makes him an easy start.

SIT

Brenton Strange at Colts

While strange has flashed at times, his role in the offense remains too inconsistent to trust in a crucial Week 17 matchup. His productivity heavily depends on game script and injuries around him, which creates a low floor. With limited red-zone involvement and unpredictable usage, Strange is better left on the bench this week.

Darren Waller vs Buccaneers 

Waller’s name still carries weight, but his on-field impact hasn’t matched the hype this season. Between lingering health concerns and inconsistent QB play, his target volume has been unreliable. In a must win fantasy week for most people, it’s hard to justify starting a TE who hasn’t shown dependable production or scoring.

Dalton Kincaid vs Eagles

Kincaid’s long term outlook remains bright, but Week 17 presents a tough spot for fantasy managers. His role has fluctuated, especially with other weapons demanding targets as well. Without guaranteed volume or red-zone looks, Kincaid carries more risk than reward, making him a sit in a championship week.

Chris, Author

A once–wannabe pro football player whose career was cut short by injuries, Chris stayed in the game by trading pads for perspective. A diehard Lions fan and aspiring journalist, he brings grit, edge, and honesty to every breakdown. When he’s not talking ball, he’s baking or rapping for fun because the grind doesn’t stop, it just changes.