The tight end position in fantasy football can be a tricky one to navigate. Do you prioritize a consistent pass-catcher or a high-upside playmaker? This question is especially relevant when comparing Pat Freiermuth of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chigoziem Okonkwo of the Tennessee Titans. Both players have emerged as promising talents, but their 2023 fantasy prospects remain a subject of debate. Who should you target in your draft: Freiermuth Or Okonkwo?
Analyzing the Skillsets
Both Freiermuth and Okonkwo possess unique skillsets that make them intriguing fantasy assets. Freiermuth, entering his third season, has already established himself as a reliable target. Known for his sure hands and impressive route-running ability, he’s a safety blanket for quarterback Kenny Pickett.
Okonkwo, on the other hand, is an explosive athlete with immense upside. While his role in the Titans’ offense is still developing, his combination of size, speed, and agility makes him a threat to break a big play every time he touches the ball.
Target Share and Opportunity
One key factor to consider is target share and the overall offensive scheme of each team. Freiermuth has the advantage in this category. Pittsburgh’s offense, while still finding its footing with a young quarterback, leans heavily on the passing game. Freiermuth, as Pickett’s security blanket, stands to benefit from a high volume of targets, especially in the red zone.
Okonkwo faces more competition for targets in Tennessee’s run-first offense. While his big-play ability makes him a valuable weapon, his fantasy production might be capped by the limited passing attempts in Tennessee’s offensive scheme.
2023 Fantasy Outlook
So, who should you draft? If you prioritize a higher floor and consistent production, Freiermuth is the safer bet. He’s likely to see a high volume of targets, particularly in PPR leagues.
“Freiermuth is the kind of tight end you can build your fantasy team around,” says fantasy expert Sarah Johnson. “He might not win you your week, but he’ll consistently put up points.”
However, if you’re willing to gamble on upside and touchdown potential, Okonkwo is an intriguing late-round pick. His athleticism and big-play ability could translate into some explosive weeks, making him a potential league-winner.
“Okonkwo is a breakout candidate in 2023,” claims fantasy analyst Mike Evans. “If he can carve out a larger role in the Titans’ offense, his ceiling is incredibly high.”
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between Freiermuth and Okonkwo comes down to your draft strategy and risk tolerance. Both players have the potential to be valuable fantasy assets in 2023, but their value depends on your individual team needs and league settings.