What to do with Darren Waller in Week 5 fantasy football

Travis Kelce is the NFL’s leading receiver at tight end, and that probably comes as a surprise to absolutely no one. But who is second? George Kittle? Zach Ertz? Rob Gronkowski? Nope. Darren Waller of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Waller has been lighting it up for the Raiders offense all season long, and is coming off the backs of an 88-yard performance last week against the Buffalo Bills. This week, the Raiders travel to Kansas City to face the reigning Super Bowl champion Chiefs in an AFC West showdown at 11 a.m. ET Sunday.

Fantasy Football analysis: Raiders TE Darren Waller

Waller is the Raiders’ leading receiver in 2020, and in a game that features Patrick Mahomes on the other side of the ball, you can expect Darren Waller to be targeted early and often by Derek Carr as the Raiders will try to keep pace with the high-flying Chiefs.

The Chiefs have played surprisingly well against opposing tight ends this year, but have yet to really be challenged at the position. Waller represents the first real test for the Chiefs defense at the tight end position, and 6’6 Waller could have a big day against a Chiefs linebacking corps whose tallest member is 6’2. The New England Patriots, who gave Waller a tough time two weeks ago, have linebackers that are 6’3 and 6’4.

In addition to height, Waller presents a unique blend of athleticism and route-running that could prove dividends if the Raiders want any chance of upsetting the Champs.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

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