Darren Waller vs Jake Tonges
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
Darren Waller- Higher projection: 123 vs 71 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 302 vs 314
- More points per game: 9.9 vs 5.5
Darren Waller and Jake Tonges are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Darren Waller holds the edge in expert consensus (TE38 to TE40). The 2026 projections clearly separate them: Darren Waller at 123 PPR points (7.2 per game) versus Jake Tonges at 71.
Last season Jake Tonges carried the heavier workload (36% snap share, 46 touches to Darren Waller's 35), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Jake Tonges is the younger option (age 27), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Darren Waller is the clear pick on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Waller | Tonges |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 123 | 71 |
| Points / game | 9.9 | 5.5 |
| Games played | 9 | 17 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #302 | #314 |
| ADP | - | 241 |
| Positional rank | TE32 | TE29 |
| Snap share | 45% | 36% |
| Red-zone touches | 7 | 6 |
| Age | 33 | 27 |
| Bye week | 5 | 8 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2025 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Darren Waller or Jake Tonges.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Darren Waller or Jake Tonges in 2026?
Darren Waller is a clear call over Jake Tonges for 2026, on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Who is projected to score more, Darren Waller or Jake Tonges?
Darren Waller carries the higher 2026 projection at 123 PPR points (7.2 per game), compared with 71 for Jake Tonges.
Who is ranked higher, Darren Waller or Jake Tonges?
Expert consensus ranks Darren Waller (TE38) ahead of Jake Tonges (TE40) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.