T.J. Hockenson vs Tyler Higbee: Who Should You Start?
The gap between T.J. Hockenson and Tyler Higbee is smaller than most fantasy managers think. Separated by just 0.1 PPG in 2025, this is one of those tight end decisions that comes down to context, not name recognition. T.J. Hockenson averaged 5.8 PPG with the Minnesota Vikings across 15 games, and Tyler Higbee posted 5.9 with the Los Angeles Rams in 10.
When two tight ends are separated by less than two points per game, the decision shifts to weekly context. Who has the softer defense? Who is trending up over the last month? Which team is projected for more total points? Those are the tiebreakers that actually matter.
T.J. Hockenson is the volume tight end in this matchup with 51 receptions for 438 yards, while Tyler Higbee profiles as a more touchdown-dependent spike play (3 scores on 25 catches). In weeks where Tyler Higbee finds the end zone he out-scores T.J. Hockenson, but the floor gap is real.
One thing to note: both players share a Week 6 bye. That means you need a backup plan at tight end for that week, especially if one of these two is your starter.
