Gunnar Helm vs Sam LaPorta: Who Should You Start?
If you are choosing between Gunnar Helm and Sam LaPorta for your lineup, you are not alone. Gunnar Helm finished the 2025 season at 4.4 PPG for the Tennessee Titans (16 games), and Sam LaPorta averaged 9.7 for the Detroit Lions (9 games).
That 5.3-point weekly advantage for Sam LaPorta is meaningful but not automatic. Fantasy football is a week-to-week sport, and the answer to "who should I start" often changes based on opponent, recent form, and game environment. Season averages set the baseline; weekly context makes the call.
Both see steady target volume for the tight end position. Gunnar Helm had 44 catches for 357 yards; Sam LaPorta posted 40 for 489. 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 5 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking tight ends this deep on your bench, plan your replacement tight end early.
