Fantasy Football Start ‘Em or Sit ‘Em Week 9: TE Chris Herndon

Heading into Week 9 fantasy football, New York Jets tight end Chris Herndon may not be the best option to start as a tight end, but he could fit nicely into the role of a flex as he faces the Miami Dolphins.

22-year-old Chris Herndon, who was drafted by the New York Jets in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, has proven himself to be a promising prospect throughout the season thus far. He’s an above average athlete, has the ability to separate himself from linebackers in coverage, and has shown a great knack for going up and grabbing the ball. In addition, he’s been riding a solid wave of momentum, as he’s totaled a touchdown in each of his last three games, much to the joy of fantasy football owners everywhere.

That success could very well continue against the 4-4 Dolphins this week. In terms of their defense as a whole, the Dolphin’s strength lies up front with its defensive line led by defensive ends Cameron Wake and Andre Branch. The unit, however, hasn’t done particularly well against the passing attack, ranking 23rd overall in passing yards allowed per game.

Sure, the team only allows 108.0 rushing yards per game, which likely isn’t a good sign for the Jets struggling rushing attack and the talent on the defensive line will be looking to put the pressure on rooking quarterback Sam Darnold. The good news is that there may be openings for the Jets in the passing game.

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If the Jets’ offensive line can hold up or if Darnold can avoid the pressure, Herndon will likely be a primary target especially with wide receivers Quincy Enunwa and Robby Anderson likely to be questionable for Sunday’s game. Herndon certainly has room to grow in order to become an elite level tight-end, but he’s proven thus far that he can be, at times, a reliable offensive weapon. His streak of touchdowns is a positive sign as well.

With that being said, Herndon may be worth a start in Week 9, but he’s probably better suited in the role of the flex. Despite the fact that the Dolphins have had some issues defending the pass, the Jets also have had issues of their own on offense.

It’s very possible that those issues continue due to a weak offensive line, a struggling rushing attack and a lack of weapons. However, if the offense does find success this weekend, it will easily be due to Herndon having a significant role.