Darren Waller 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
Darren Waller- Higher projection: 123 vs 81 pts
- More points per game: 9.9 vs 5.7
- Better positional rank: TE32 vs TE37
Darren Waller and Michael Mayer are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Michael Mayer holds the edge in expert consensus (TE36 to TE38). The 2026 projections clearly separate them: Darren Waller at 123 PPR points (7.2 per game) versus Michael Mayer at 81.
Last season Michael Mayer carried the heavier workload (57% snap share, 50 touches to Darren Waller's 35), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Michael Mayer is the younger option (age 25), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Darren Waller is the clear pick on the higher projection.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Waller | Mayer |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 123 | 81 |
| Points / game | 9.9 | 5.7 |
| Games played | 9 | 13 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #302 | #300 |
| Positional rank | TE32 | TE37 |
| Snap share | 45% | 57% |
| Red-zone touches | 7 | 6 |
| Age | 33 | 25 |
| Bye week | 5 | 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: Darren Waller or Michael Mayer.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Darren Waller or Michael Mayer in 2026?
Darren Waller is a clear call over Michael Mayer for 2026, on the higher projection.
Who is projected to score more, Darren Waller or Michael Mayer?
Darren Waller carries the higher 2026 projection at 123 PPR points (7.2 per game), compared with 81 for Michael Mayer.
Who is ranked higher, Darren Waller or Michael Mayer?
Expert consensus ranks Michael Mayer (TE36) ahead of Darren Waller (TE38) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.