Darren Waller vs Mike Gesicki
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 105 pts
- More points per game: 9.9 vs 5.4
- More opportunity: 45% snap share, 7 red-zone touches
Darren Waller and Mike Gesicki are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Mike Gesicki holds the edge in expert consensus (TE35 to TE38). The 2026 projections give a modest edge: Darren Waller at 123 PPR points (7.2 per game) versus Mike Gesicki at 105.
Last season Mike Gesicki carried the heavier workload (38% snap share, 42 touches to Darren Waller's 35), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Mike Gesicki is the younger option (age 30), 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 | Gesicki |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 123 | 105 |
| Points / game | 9.9 | 5.4 |
| Games played | 9 | 13 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #302 | #299 |
| Positional rank | TE32 | TE40 |
| Snap share | 45% | 38% |
| Red-zone touches | 7 | 7 |
| Age | 33 | 30 |
| Bye week | 5 | 6 |
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 Mike Gesicki.
Frequently asked
Should I draft Darren Waller or Mike Gesicki in 2026?
Darren Waller is a clear call over Mike Gesicki for 2026, on the higher projection.
Who is projected to score more, Darren Waller or Mike Gesicki?
Darren Waller carries the higher 2026 projection at 123 PPR points (7.2 per game), compared with 105 for Mike Gesicki.
Who is ranked higher, Darren Waller or Mike Gesicki?
Expert consensus ranks Mike Gesicki (TE35) 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.