By Bart Lopez
1. Jermichael Finley (GB): The Packers tight end takes the top spot this week. Although Finley is coming off his worst fantasy week of the year, things look good in week 5 against a Falcons defense that gives up 275.5 yards per game in the air. His quarterback Aaron Rodgers will undoubtedly have a great game, so expect Finley to be a part of that success. Projected fantasy points: 10.9.
2. Tony Gonzalez (ATL): On the other sidelines across from Finley is this week’s second best tight end, Tony Gonzalez. Like the Falcons, the Packers have not done well against the pass, and are currently the second worst pass defense in terms of yards per game in the league. The Falcons are going to have to beat the Packers in the air, which means more points for Gonzalez. Projected fantasy points: 9.0.
3. Rob Gronkowski (NE): Number 87 for the Patriots is second on the team in receptions. Last week was his first bad fantasy week of the year, catching only one ball. In the previous three games he scored five touchdowns. The Patriots play the New York Jets this weekend, which should be a challenge for the Pats offense. However, Tom Brady always finds a way, and I have no doubts Gronkowski will be the target of plenty of passes. Projected fantasy points: 8.7.
4. Owen Daniels (HOU): Like Gronkowski, Daniels his second on his team in receptions. He has scored a touchdown in each of the last three games, and will likely continue that streak against the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders have struggled defensively, so expect a game full of offense. Projected fantasy points: 8.4.
5. Jimmy Graham (NO): With Marques Colston getting injured early in the year, Jimmy Graham has stepped up and become Drew Brees’ favorite target. So far this season Graham has caught 24 passes for 367 yards and three touchdowns. The Saints face a poor Panthers defense on Sunday. I expect Brees and Graham to continue to dismantle opposing defenses. Projected fantasy points: 8.4.
Not top 5, but could be: This week’s tight end that is not on the list but should be on everyone’s radar is Tampa Bay’s Kellen Winslow. Winslow has not put up very impressive numbers this year. He currently hovers around 40 receiving yards per game and hasn’t caught a touchdown, which means he’s due. The Bucs opponents on Sunday are the Niners. San Francisco does not have a great pass defense, so I’m thinking that Winslow will have a break out game and exceed predictions. Projected fantasy points: 6.8.