:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68505057/usa_today_15248475.0.jpg)
Kyle Rudolph and Irv Smith Jr. are both question marks going into Week 14’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Even if one is healthy, they may not warrant a reliable fantasy start.
Fantasy Football analysis: Vikings TEs Kyle Rudolph, Irv Smith Jr.
Rudolph has officially been announced as doubtful to play on Sunday, as he is dealing with a foot injury, per Andrew Krammer. If he is able to suit up, there isn’t much value in plugging him into your starting lineup. Rudolph was held to zero catches on two targets last week against the Jacksonville Jaguars after coming off a season-best 13.80 fantasy-point performance the week prior versus the Carolina Panthers. Rudolph has scored just once this season and it didn’t even come against the Panthers, which was also his first game of more than 9.10 points all year. Though head coach Mike Zimmer hinted at the possibility of Rudolph playing, it’s not worth having him in a lineup.
#Vikings coach Mike Zimmer on Kyle Rudolph. "He's a pretty fast healer so we'll just see. ... He wants to play. ... I don't want to count him out yet.''
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) December 11, 2020
Smith Jr. is listed as questionable with a back injury, as he’s missed three of the last four games due to injuries. Though he has three games this season of 10.20, 11.50 and 15.0 points, the Buccaneers have been pretty solid against opposing tight ends. Tampa Bay has only allowed six tight ends to break 10.0 fantasy points, as they allow 13.90 points in such games. Only two have broken 60 yards receiving with Travis Kelce in Week 12 and Jared Cook in Week 1.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Sit both Kyle Rudolph and Irv Smith Jr.