By Bart Lopez
1. Jimmy Graham (NO): This week’s top tight end is New Orlean’s Jimmy Graham. Graham had a big day last week as the Saints completely demolished the Colts at home. Graham finished with 54 yards receiving and two touchdowns. This week the Saints play the Rams. St. Louis’ defense isn’t going to be able to stop New Orleans, so expect another good day from Graham. Projected fantasy points: 10.3.
2. Rob Gronkowski (NE): At least one of the New England tight ends always ends up on this list. The Pats are coming off a bye, but in their last game against the Cowboys Gronkowski finished with seven receptions for 74 yards. This week against the Steelers, expect Brady to spread out the defense and hit Gronkowski up the middle for good yardage. Projected fantasy points: 9.5.
3. Jason Witten (DAL): Tony Romo’s favorite target is back on the list after his third straight game with a touchdown. Witten continues to get plenty of looks despite being surrounded by talented wide receivers. This week the Cowboys face an Eagles secondary that has struggled all year. Witten will be targeted throughout the game and is bound to make fantasy owners very happy. Projected fantasy points: 9.4.
4. Fred Davis (WAS): Fred Davis takes the fourth spot and is currently leading the Redskins in receptions. Davis racked up the fantasy points last week, catching six passes for 80 yards and a touchdown. This Sunday the Redskins travel to Buffalo to face the Bills. The Bills aren’t a very good defensive team, and Davis is likely to get plenty of opportunities. Projected fantasy points: 8.1.
5. Aaron Hernandez (NE): Tom Brady is a tight ends best friend. He somehow finds a way to have two tight ends combine for eight touchdowns and nearly 700 yards receiving. The Pats offense always finds a way to score points, and Hernandez is a big target in the red zone. Projected fantasy points: 8.1.
Not top 5, but could be: This week’s tight end that isn’t on the list but is primed for a big game is San Francisco’s Vernon Davis. The Niners are coming off a bye after a big win on the road against the Lions. David leads the team in receptions and has three touchdowns on the season. This week SF plays Cleveland at home. The Browns are ranked second in opposing passing yards, but haven’t faced a good passing offense yet. I’m expecting Davis to be too much for the Browns secondary. Projected fantasy points: 7.3.
