Darnell Washington vs Jake Tonges: Who Should You Start?
This is a genuine coin flip on paper. Darnell Washington finished the 2025 season at 3.6 PPG over 16 games with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Jake Tonges clocked in at 4.5 across 17 appearances for the San Francisco 49ers. A 0.9-point gap means any given week could go either way.
With a margin this thin, season averages are not the deciding factor. Weekly variables like opponent defense, game script, and injury status carry more weight than a fraction of a PPG. The right start in Week 6 might be the wrong start in Week 14.
Both see steady target volume for the tight end position. Darnell Washington had 31 catches for 364 yards; Jake Tonges posted 34 for 293. At a position where most starters barely clear 7 PPG, this class of tight end is where the fantasy advantage lives week to week.
Both share a Week 9 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking tight ends this deep on your bench, plan your replacement tight end early.
