Fantasy Football Tight Ends: Top 15 To Target In 2015

Tight end Antonio Gates (85) – Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

FANTASY FOOTBALL TIGHT ENDS NUMBER 9: ANTONIO GATES

It surprised everyone that a 34-year-old Antonio Gates tied for the lead among tight ends last year with 12 touchdowns, putting him in good company with Gronk and Julius Thomas.  In fact, in ESPN standard scoring leagues, his 148 fantasy points were second only to Gronkowski, albeit by a cool 30 points.

Of course, everyone was just as surprised to see Gates hit with a four-game suspension for PEDs as well, so he’ll be starting 2015 away from the field.

While this means Ladarius Green will get a chance to showcase his skills in Weeks 1-4, Gates should still have the starting role upon his return. Be warned though – in 2013 Gates had just four touchdowns with eight more receptions and 51 more yards than in 2014, so there could be some luck involved in those 12 he captured last season.

Gates has had Philip Rivers throwing to him since 2004, and if Gates comes back strong and his foot holds up, they should be able to pick up right where they left off.

He’s no longer a sure thing, so tread carefully and be sure to pick up Green in the late rounds if Gates finds his way onto your roster.

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