Tight End Matchups to Target in Week 18 - Trey McBride, Zach Ertz, Brock Bowers, Brenton Strange

Tight ends often fly under the radar in NFL DFS, but they can be the position that separates a good lineup from a great one. As defenses focus on stopping perimeter playmakers and deep threats, tight ends are increasingly carving out significant roles, feasting on short and intermediate routes. Week 18 offers a mix of high-upside stars and value options ready to take advantage of favorable matchups.

Whether you're building around a premium player or looking for a salary-saving dart throw, these tight ends are primed to deliver on both DraftKings and FanDuel.

Let’s break down four of the best plays for this week’s slate at the TE position.

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Trey McBride - $6,500 DK / $7,400 FD

Arizona Cardinals vs. San Francisco 49ers

McBride has become a focal point of Arizona’s passing attack, leading the team in targets and receptions in recent weeks. Averaging an impressive 8.5 targets and 72.1 receiving yards per game, he has established himself as a high-floor, high-ceiling option.

He's facing a tough 49ers defense, which ranks sixth in fantasy points allowed to tight ends, but route participation and consistent involvement make him a standout play.

McBride’s combination of volume and efficiency makes him an excellent choice for both cash games and tournaments. His salary reflects his recent production, but his ability to rack up receptions and yardage gives him the upside to justify the cost. He’s a key building block in Arizona-heavy stacks or as a standalone piece.

Zach Ertz - $4,000 DK / $5,400 FD

Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys

Ertz continues to operate as a reliable safety valve in Washington’s offense, averaging 5.2 targets and 38.1 receiving yards per game. The Commanders have leaned on Ertz in key situations, and his role as a red-zone target boosts his touchdown equity. A matchup against Dallas, whose defense struggles against tight ends (eighth-most fantasy points allowed), sets the stage for Ertz to thrive.

Zach Ertz : 6 catches for 72 yards & 2 TD's on 7 targets (Game-winning 2-yard TD catch in OT) pic.twitter.com/YgffredK4v

— Lee Harvey (@MusikFan4Life) December 30, 2024

Ertz’s modest salary and consistent involvement make him an attractive cash game play, particularly for those seeking a reliable option at a mid-range price point. In GPPs, his potential for a touchdown and increased usage in a competitive game script make him a savvy value pivot.

Brock Bowers - $6,600 DK / $7,300 FD

Las Vegas Raiders vs. L.A. Chargers

Bowers has quickly become a favorite target in Las Vegas, boasting a robust 8.8 targets and 71.5 receiving yards per game. His athleticism and ability to create yards after the catch make him a unique asset, and his usage in high-leverage situations (e.g., third downs and the red zone) cements his role in the offense. Against the Chargers, who rank seventh-worst at defending tight ends, Bowers has a clear path to a big day.

Bowers is a premium GPP option with a legitimate slate-breaking upside. His price may keep his ownership in check, making him an ideal tournament pivot. His potential to lead all tight ends in fantasy points makes him worth the investment for those seeking a difference-maker.

Brenton Strange - $3,500 DK / $5,000 FD

Jacksonville Jaguars at Indianapolis Colts

Strange has quietly carved out a meaningful role in Jacksonville’s offense, particularly in short-yardage and red-zone situations. While his target volume (3.1 per game) isn’t elite, his efficiency and knack for finding the end zone make him a sneaky play. A matchup against Indianapolis, which struggles against tight ends (28th in DVP), provides an opportunity for Strange to exceed expectations.

Notable TE Snap Share Increasers in Week 17:

Foster Moreau📈
Devin Culp📈
Brenton Strange📈 pic.twitter.com/PwhEmepOxZ

— Scott Spratt (@Scott_Spratt) December 31, 2024

Strange is the definition of a low-risk, high-reward GPP play. At his salary, he allows you to pay up at other positions while still offering touchdown upside. For large-field tournaments, Strange is an intriguing dart throw who could pay off handsomely with just a few key catches.

Thanks for reading, and good luck with your DFS contests!

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