Training camp positional battles: Tight ends

August 12, 2008
16:37:00

By Bryce McRae
Edited by Herija C. Green and Cory J. Bonini

With training camps around the league underway, dozens of battles are already being fought for the right to playing time when the real games begin in September. Each of these battles is unique and varies in its fantasy impact. We have highlighted some of the important competitions taking place in August with a brief analysis giving our take on the situation.

Tight ends

Miami Dolphins: David Martin vs. Anthony Fasano vs. Justin Peelle vs. Sean Ryan

Under new offensive coordinator Dan Henning, the tight end position could be utilized more than it was last year. The two primary competitors are Martin and Fasano. Martin is the better pass-catcher of the two, but he will likely need to improve his blocking if he wants to remain the starter as Henning would like whoever starts to be able to work as both the blocker and receiver. Fasano worked with new head coach Tony Sparano in Dallas and could win the job if he shows decent hands. This battle likely won't have much of a fantasy impact so avoid taking either player outside of deep leagues as a low-end backup option.

Projected Winner: Anthony Fasano

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Alex Smith vs. Ben Troupe vs. Jerramy Stevens

This appears to be Smith's job. He has the most experience in the offense and has put up decent numbers in the past. However, Troupe has four years experience and caught 55 passes for 530 yards and four touchdowns during his second season. Those are better numbers than Smith has ever posted. Stevens had a great finish to the 2007 season (eight receptions, 103 yards, three touchdowns in his last two games) and was a legitimate threat with the Seattle Seahawks despite off-the-field problems and suffering from dropped passes. However, Stevens will miss the first two games because of suspension but could be the best long-term option of this group. Look for Smith to emerge as the winner here, though he may not hold the job all year and has value only as a very weak No. 2 tight end.

Projected Winner: Alex Smith

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