Cole Kmet vs Michael Mayer
Two tight ends fantasy managers weigh against each other for 2026. Here is the head-to-head on projections, expert consensus, ADP and usage, with our Clutch Score verdict on who to draft.
Who to draft
Strong edge · 95% confident
Michael Mayer- Higher projection: 81 vs 80 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 340 vs 346
- More points per game: 5.7 vs 4.9
Cole Kmet and Michael Mayer are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Michael Mayer holds the edge in expert consensus (TE43 to TE45). The 2026 projections are nearly even: Michael Mayer at 81 PPR points (4.8 per game) versus Cole Kmet at 80.
Last season Michael Mayer carried the heavier workload (57% snap share, 50 touches to Cole Kmet's 48), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. For a 2026 redraft, Michael Mayer is the clear pick on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and the bigger workload.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Kmet | Mayer |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 80 | 81 |
| Points / game | 4.9 | 5.7 |
| Games played | 16 | 13 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #346 | #340 |
| Positional rank | TE33 | TE35 |
| Snap share | 69% | 57% |
| Red-zone touches | 6 | 6 |
| Age | 27 | 25 |
| Bye week | 10 | 13 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Cole Kmet or Michael Mayer.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Cole Kmet or Michael Mayer in 2026?
Michael Mayer is a clear call over Cole Kmet for 2026, on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and the bigger workload.
Who is projected to score more, Cole Kmet or Michael Mayer?
Michael Mayer carries the higher 2026 projection at 81 PPR points (4.8 per game), compared with 80 for Cole Kmet.
Who is ranked higher, Cole Kmet or Michael Mayer?
Expert consensus ranks Michael Mayer (TE43) ahead of Cole Kmet (TE45) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.