Sam LaPorta - Week 16 Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks

BALLER MOVE: Start in all fantasy formats

POSITIONAL VALUE: Consistent, high-ceiling producer

ANALYSIS: LaPorta has been one of the National Football League's most impressive rookies. Not only that, the 2023 No. 34 overall pick has been a top fantasy tight end all year. At the position, he's currently ranked fourth in receptions (71), fourth in receiving yards (758), and fifth in targets (98). LaPorta also has 14 catches for over 20 yards, putting him behind only Travis Kelce and George Kittle (in that order).

Most importantly, he's found the end zone nine times, more than any tight end in the NFL. The 22-year-old is coming off a monster performance, catching five of six targets for 56 yards and three touchdowns in the Week 15 win over the Denver Broncos, and will look to keep it going on Sunday in an NFC North showdown with Minnesota. This will be the Lions' first encounter with the Vikings this season, with both clubs scheduled to meet again in Week 18. On paper, Minnesota has stood firm versus opposing tight ends this season, so fantasy managers are left wondering if LaPorta should be included in their starting lineups.

But to put things into context, the Vikings had issues slowing down Kelce back in early October, with the All-Pro finishing with 10 grabs for 67 yards and a score. Minnesota also had trouble keeping Kittle in check, allowing him to amass five grabs for 78 yards. With this in mind, fantasy managers shouldn't pay any attention to "defense versus position," especially since Minnesota hasn't faced any quality tight ends outside of Kelce and Kittle. Besides, LaPorta has played too well all year, so he needs to be starting in all fantasy setups, no matter the league size, in Week 16.

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