Bucs rule O.J. Howard out for Week 8

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be without tight end O.J. Howard in Week 8 due to a hamstring injury. It’s notable given his talent, but also worth noting the lack of usage we’ve seen in Bruce Arians’ offense. Howard has 13 catches for 176 yards, a season after appearing to be on the brink of huge breakout.

Cameron Brate will start in his place. Through six games, Brate has 12 receptions for 119 yards and two touchdowns. Howard has been the starter, but the touchdowns have made Brate the superior fantasy option.

Fantasy football analysis, Bucs TEs O.J. Howard, Cameron Brate

The Titans defense has been fairly solid, but not so much against the tight end position. They rank 27th in DVOA defending tight ends, and rank ninth worse in terms of fantasy points allowed to the position. This could have been a breakout opportunity for Howard, but in the meantime, Brate gains some decent fantasy value. The tight end position lacks depth, so if you’re looking for a bye week fill-in for Mark Andrews or Jason Witten, or you have still been rolling out Howard, Brate could buy you a week.