Sep 28, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry (85) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

This week, starting Hunter Henry, Tucker Kraft, and Jake Tonges gives fantasy managers solid upside, while sitting Jonnu Smith, Chig Okonkwo, and Kyle Pitts helps avoid potential disappointment in tight end production. Here are the reasons why.

Start ‘Em:

Hunter Henry of the New England Patriots is a strong start for Week 6 in fantasy football. Henry has been a reliable target in the Patriots' offense this season, especially in the red zone. His ability to make contested catches and convert them into touchdowns has made him a viable fantasy option. The Patriots face an opponent this week that tends to give up valuable opportunities to tight ends, making Henry a must-start in most lineups. His connection with the Maye continues to improve, and with consistent targets, Henry brings a strong floor with upside in Week 6 against a struggling Saints team that gave up two touchdowns last week to Theo Johnson.

Tucker Kraft of the Green Bay Packers is another solid start option. Kraft has been quietly effective, showing good route running and reliable hands. The Packers' offense has featured him increasingly in passing situations, especially in critical third-down scenarios. This week, Kraft faces a Cincinnati defense that has struggled to contain tight ends, making him an attractive fantasy play. The Bengals have given up the most to the TE position this season. His potential for both receptions and red zone targets makes him a high-upside choice to start for fantasy managers seeking points from the tight end position.

Jake Tonges of the San Francisco 49ers is also worth starting in Week 6. Tonges has emerged as a reliable receiving option in the 49ers' offense, benefiting from the team's injuries. Tonges has scored 10 plus points in the last three games. In week 5 he was targeted 11 times and had a huge week. He offers good chemistry with the Jones and is heavily involved in key red zone packages. Facing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have given up significant production to tight ends this season, Tonges is poised for a productive fantasy outing. His role and matchup make him a recommended start for Week 6.

Sit ‘Em:

Jonnu Smith of the Pittsburgh Steelers is a sit for Week 6. The Steelers have been relying less on Smith, and his production has been limited this season. Coming off a bye week, he faces the Cleveland Browns, a team known for tough coverage on tight ends. Given the uncertain usage and tough matchup, Smith is a risky fantasy play this week. It is better to look elsewhere for more consistent tight-end options.

Chig Okonkwo of the Tennessee Titans should also be sat out in Week 6. Okonkwo has seen his role fluctuate, and the Titans' offensive game plan has not featured him heavily. Fantasy managers should be cautious and avoid starting Okonkwo this week.

Kyle Pitts Sr. of the Atlanta Falcons is another tight end to sit in Week 6. Pitts has had moments this year, but this week will be a challenge due to the Falcons' matchup with the Bills. The Bills have not allowed a tight End to score more than 7.5points against them all season.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 6: TE Edition

Reporting by Tyler Whitcomb, Touchdown Wire / Touchdown Wire

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