Mike Gesicki vs Sam LaPorta: Who Should You Start?
Deciding between Mike Gesicki and Sam LaPorta is a common lineup dilemma for fantasy managers. The Cincinnati Bengals tight end put up 4.4 PPG in 2025 over 13 games; Sam LaPorta of the Detroit Lions averaged 9.7 in 9. A 5.3-point margin that could shift on any given week.
The per-game difference of 5.3 points favors Sam LaPorta, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one tight end to the other.
Both see steady target volume for the tight end position. Mike Gesicki had 28 catches for 307 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.
Bye weeks matter for roster construction: Mike Gesicki sits Week 12 while Sam LaPorta is off Week 5. If you are deciding between the two as a season-long roster hold, the staggered byes actually work in your favor.
