Fantasy Football Tight End Picks & DFS Pricing Guide

Week 15 NFL DFS Tight End Breakdown: Best Picks and Betting Insights

The tight-end position continues to be one of the most challenging in DFS, with limited options that combine consistency, upside, and affordability. Week 15 is no different, but there are some intriguing names that stand out as viable plays for your lineups. Let’s break down the best options, strategies, and relevant betting angles.

Premium Tight Ends: Paying Up for Reliability

Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs ($5,700)

Kelce remains the gold standard at tight end, and his matchup against the Cleveland Browns makes him a strong option. While his price is more manageable this week, the Chiefs’ offense has been inconsistent. Kelce’s ability to find the end zone is his saving grace.

• DFS Tip: Use Kelce in cash games if you’re prioritizing floor. Stacking him with Patrick Mahomes could pay off in tournaments.
• Betting Insight: Kelce anytime touchdown (+120) is always a solid prop bet, especially with the narrative of breaking records in his hometown.

Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals ($6,000)

McBride has emerged as a PPR machine, soaking up targets in Arizona’s offense. He’s expensive, but his consistent usage makes him a high-floor play. If Kyler Murray leans on him in a competitive game, McBride could deliver big.

• DFS Tip: McBride is ideal for cash lineups. Pair him with a cheaper quarterback to balance salary.
• Betting Insight: McBride over 5.5 receptions (-110) is a strong prop bet for this week.

Mid-Tier Tight Ends: Best Value Plays

Jonnu Smith of the Miami Dolphins ($5,400)

Smith has become a reliable red-zone option and remains one of the best touchdown scorers at the tight end position. At $5,400, he offers a combination of affordability and upside.

• DFS Strategy: Jonnu Smith is the go-to option if you want a balance of value and production. Stack him with his quarterback in GPPs for a high-upside lineup.
• Betting Insight: Consider Smith anytime touchdown (+150). He’s a strong candidate to score in this matchup.

Sam LaPorta of the Detroit Lions ($4,400)

LaPorta’s price reflects his inconsistent usage, but his red-zone prowess keeps him relevant. In a high-scoring game against Buffalo, LaPorta has the potential to deliver if Detroit’s offense gets rolling.

• DFS Strategy: Use LaPorta in tournament lineups where touchdown upside is key. Stack him with Jared Goff for added synergy.
• Betting Insight: LaPorta first touchdown scorer (+1400) is a bold but intriguing long-shot bet.

Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens ($4,100)

Andrews’ price is surprisingly low given his ceiling. In a game where Baltimore is projected to score multiple touchdowns, Andrews could easily end up with a red-zone target or two.

• DFS Tip: Andrews is a strong value in all formats. Pair him with Lamar Jackson for a mini-stack.
• Betting Insight: Take the over on Andrews receiving yards (set at 45.5). He’s a favorite target for Jackson in key moments.

Low-End Tight Ends: Punt Options

Pat Freiermuth of the Pittsburgh Steelers ($3,900)

Freiermuth is a dart throw in a low-scoring game. His usage is limited, but he remains a red-zone option for Pittsburgh.

• DFS Tip: Only use Freiermuth if you’re desperate to save salary at the position. He’s a GPP-only play.
• Betting Insight: Avoid Freiermuth props unless you’re banking on a touchdown.

Jake Ferguson of the Dallas Cowboys ($3,800)

Ferguson has flashed potential but remains a risky play. He offers some upside against weaker defenses but is far from a sure thing.

• DFS Tip: Ferguson works as a contrarian play in large-field tournaments.
• Betting Insight: Ferguson anytime touchdown (+400) offers long-shot value if you’re feeling bold.

Fading Candidates

While there are intriguing options, some tight ends should be avoided:

• Zach Ertz of the Washington Commanders ($4,000): With minimal usage in Arizona’s offense, Ertz lacks both the ceiling and floor to justify his price.

Final Recommendations

Best Overall Plays

1. Jonnu Smith ($5,400): The best value play on the slate with strong touchdown potential.
2. Kelce ($5,700): The safest premium option for cash games.
3. Andrews ($4,100): A value pick with a high ceiling in an offense projected to score heavily.

Top Tournament Stacks

• Mahomes + Kelce
• Goff + LaPorta
• Jackson + Andrews

Final Betting Insights

• Best Props:
  • Jonnu Smith anytime touchdown (+150)
  • McBride over 5.5 receptions (-110)
  • Kelce over 65.5 receiving yards (-115)

The tight end position may lack depth, but with smart choices, you can find value and upside for your DFS lineups in Week 15. Pair these plays with savvy betting strategies to maximize your winnings this weekend!

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.