Fantasy Football Tips: Managing Tight Ends and Wide Receivers
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Fantasy Football Guide 2024: Navigating Tight Ends and Wide Receivers with Betting Insights
Managing tight ends and wide receivers in fantasy football can be tricky, with many players delivering inconsistent performances or being overshadowed by other offensive talents. Here’s a look at how to handle key players, which ones to hold or drop, and betting opportunities that could align with these decisions.
Tight Ends: Managing the Inconsistent Performers
The tight end position has been a challenge for fantasy managers for years, especially for those relying on players from teams like the Los Angeles Rams. While notable players like Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs and Sam LaPorta of the Detroit Lions have produced consistent points, others like the Rams’ Colby Parkinson have failed to reach fantasy relevance. Parkinson’s numbers are underwhelming, averaging just a few catches per game with limited yardage, making him an easy candidate for the waiver wire.
Fantasy Outlook and Betting Angle
With tight end options like Dalton Kincaid of the Buffalo Bills and T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings stepping up, Parkinson doesn’t make the cut for fantasy relevance. For bettors, a receiving yards under prop for Parkinson could be a low-risk option, especially if his involvement continues to be minimal.
The Emerging Tight Ends: Who to Target
Several tight ends have shown promise this season, with players like Kincaid, Kyle Pitts of the Atlanta Falcons, and Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals taking steps forward. These players provide more upside than the likes of Parkinson or low-tier options, making them valuable roster additions as we head into the latter part of the season.
Fantasy Outlook and Betting Angle
If you have the chance to acquire any of these emerging tight ends, they’re worth prioritizing over more inconsistent players. Betting on a touchdown prop for Kincaid could be profitable, especially in matchups where he’s expected to see a high target share in the red zone.
Wide Receivers: Hold or Drop Decisions for Secondary Options
One name that’s been polarizing in fantasy leagues is Wan’Dale Robinson of the New York Giants. Robinson had an opportunity to shine when his teammate Malik Nabers was sidelined, but with Nabers’ return, Robinson’s targets have dwindled. He’s a player who delivers modest numbers but rarely has big, breakout performances, making him a hold-or-drop candidate depending on your league depth.
Fantasy Outlook and Betting Angle
If you’re in a deeper league, Robinson can serve as a low-ceiling option during bye weeks. However, if you’re in a standard or shallow league, there are likely better options. In terms of betting, Robinson’s receptions under prop could be appealing in weeks where Nabers is fully active, as his involvement is likely to remain limited.
High-Upside Replacements for Wide Receivers
Managers looking to replace underperforming wide receivers like Robinson might find value in younger, high-upside options on the waiver wire. Here are a few names to consider if you’re looking to make a switch:
- Josh Downs of the Indianapolis Colts: With a consistent role in the Colts’ passing game, Downs has breakout potential each week.
- Kendrick Bourne of the New England Patriots: A reliable target in the Patriots’ offense, Bourne has provided steady fantasy points in recent games.
Betting on Wide Receiver Props in Favorable Matchups
When analyzing wide receivers like Robinson, it’s important to consider the matchup and overall game script. If the Giants face a tough secondary, Robinson’s target share may shrink further, making him an even riskier play.
Betting Insight
In cases where Robinson’s team is in a run-heavy game script or against a top-tier secondary, betting his receptions or yardage under can be a low-risk play.
Summary for Managing Tight Ends and Wide Receivers
- Drop Parkinson in favor of a tight end with consistent target volume like Kincaid or McBride.
- Consider dropping Robinson in standard leagues if more consistent wide receiver options are available.
- Monitor replacements like Downs and Bourne, who could offer more week-to-week value than secondary options.
- Betting Tips: Look for receiving yard under props on players like Parkinson and Robinson when their matchups or game scripts indicate limited production.
Managing tight ends and wide receivers requires adaptability, especially as players emerge or fade in their respective offenses. With strategic decisions and well-chosen bets, you can navigate these positions more effectively as the season progresses.
You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.
