Debate Series: Tony Gonzalez vs. Antonio Gates
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August 21, 2009 @ 11:30:45 |
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By Bryce McRae
Edited by Nicholas Minnix
The Dallas Cowboys' Jason Witten is the top fantasy tight end in football - there isn't much debate there, according to the average fantasy player. After that, though, two marquee names - the Atlanta Falcons' Tony Gonzalez and the San Diego Chargers' Antonio Gates - are the next tight ends generally drafted.
Let it be known that we aren't enthused with the idea of burning a pick in the 50s (of most drafts) on a tight end. If the decision is put to you, though, we are here to lend a helping hand.
Pros
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Gonzo was the focus but now has to adapt |
Gonzo caught at least six passes for 60 yards or more, or scored, or both in 10 of the final 11 games last year.
- He finished last year with 96 receptions for 1,058 yards and 10 scores. It's the third time in the last five years that he finished with reception and yardage totals of that level or higher.
- He has been the epitome of good health, missing just two games during his career and none since 2006.
- With the Kansas City Chiefs, Gonzalez was often the focal point of opposing defenses; his move to Atlanta means he should find more room to work against enemy defenders.
Cons
- It'll be tough for him to match his position-leading 159 targets from last year on an offense that features more playmakers. He should lose out more in the red zone to bruising back Michael Turner, among others.
- Gonzalez wasn't as productive in 2005 (78-905-2) and '06 (73-900-5), when Chiefs running back Larry Johnson was in peak form. Turner's impact may have a similar effect.
- The Falcons offense is built around Turner; Gonzalez, a superb blocking tight end, likely will be kept in to block more, especially close to the goal line.
- The 13-year vet has admitted he is still a little uncomfortable with his role in Atlanta's offense. He's too talented to expect this to set him back for long, but he might be a bit slow out of the gate.
- Sure he had 10 scores last year, but from 2005 to '07 he scored just 12 times. He has averaged 6.3 touchdowns per season during his career, so expecting another 10 this year might be a bit much.
- He has kept himself in great shape, but Gonzalez's age (33) has to become a concern at some point.
Pros
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Gates is healthy, wiser, but must share |
He has averaged 8.5 touchdowns per season in his six years in the league; that jumps to 9.8 if you discount the two he scored during his rookie campaign.
- A silver lining to last year's injury-plagued campaign: Gates took the time to improve his knowledge of the offense. He was forced to take mental reps when his body wouldn't allow him to be on the field.
- The former Kent State basketball player also spent a lot of time working on his upper body conditioning this offseason. He's stronger at the point of attack and is no longer carrying as much fat. His words: "I'm stronger and faster and feel more dominant."
- Ankle and toe injuries hampered him last year, but he has preventive medicine routine (massage, chiropractic care and time in the whirlpool) designed to keep him healthy. If anything, the injuries might have been the wakeup call for what he needs to do to maintain his health.
- All of that helps, but on the field is where Gates stands out, with at least 71 receptions, 924 yards and nine touchdowns in each season from 2004 to '07.
Cons
- The Chargers have a ton of options (running backs LaDainian Tomlinson and Darren Sproles, wide receivers Vincent Jackson and Chris Chambers) in their offense. Gates' number of looks has decreased in each of the past three seasons.
- Since that huge 2005 season - 89 catches, 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns - Gates' production has slowly been on the decline.
- Jackson emerged last year and is one of the league's top big-play threats, and Tomlinson seems poised to bounce back from last year's injury-marred campaign. There might also be fewer opportunities in the red zone because of it.
- Unlike Gonzalez, Gates has never topped 90 receptions in a season.
- He's not ancient, but at age 29, he is getting up there. The injuries from last year should be a concern as it might be a sign he's starting to wear down.
The verdict
We don't normally advocate drafting a tight end in the first five rounds. The position is just too deep to be taking one when you can secure a solid No. 3 running back or wide receiver.
Winner: If you draft either of the two in your league, then we're going with the younger one in the majority of formats. His touchdowns should make up for any potential loss in receptions and receiving yards compared to Gonzo.
In point-per-reception formats, it's closer, but it's still not worth drafting Gonzo over Gates. It's not even likely that Gonzo puts up a reception total similar to his marks from the past two seasons.
