Drew Sample vs Joe Royer
Two tight ends fantasy managers weigh against each other in Week 8. Here is the head-to-head on this week's Clutch Score, the next few weeks of projections and 2026 stats so far, with our verdict on who to roster.
Who to roster
Strong edge · 95% confident
Drew Sample- Projects more over Weeks 8-11: 2.9 vs 0.5 pts/game
- Healthier: no injury designation vs PUP
Drew Sample and Joe Royer are a Week 8 roster decision at tight end. Over Weeks 8-11 the weekly projections give a modest edge: Drew Sample at 2.9 PPR points per game to Joe Royer's 0.5. This week's Clutch Score has Drew Sample at 3.9 PPR points to Joe Royer's 0.0.
For the rest of the 2026 season, Drew Sample is the clear pick on the better outlook over the next few weeks, the higher Week 8 Clutch Score and a clean bill of health.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Sample | Royer |
|---|---|---|
| This week · Week 8 | ||
| Clutch Score (proj. pts) | 3.9 | 0.0 |
| Position rank | TE39 | TE68 |
| Opponent | vs TEN | @ PIT |
| Weeks ahead · Weeks 8-11 | ||
| Projected pts / game | 2.9 | 0.5 |
| Season to date · 2026 | ||
| Fantasy pts (PPR) | 17.8 | - |
| Points / game | 3.0 | - |
| Games played | 6 | - |
| Scoring rank | TE46 | - |
| Snap share | 51% | - |
| Red-zone touches | 2 | - |
| Player | ||
| Age | 30 | 24 |
| Bye week | 6 | - |
Highlighted value wins each row. Points are PPR. Clutch Score adjusts this week's projection for matchup, Vegas and injury; the weeks ahead leave out a bye.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: Drew Sample or Joe Royer.
Frequently asked
Should I roster Drew Sample or Joe Royer for the rest of 2026?
Drew Sample is a clear call over Joe Royer from Week 8 on, on the better outlook over the next few weeks, the higher Week 8 Clutch Score and a clean bill of health.
Who is projected to score more over the next few weeks, Drew Sample or Joe Royer?
Drew Sample projects for 2.9 PPR points per game over Weeks 8-11, compared with 0.5 for Joe Royer. Bye weeks are left out of both.
Who should I start in Week 8, Drew Sample or Joe Royer?
Drew Sample has the higher Week 8 Clutch Score, 3.9 PPR points to 0.0 for Joe Royer, after adjusting for matchup, Vegas and injury.
More comparisons
Verdict weighs projected points per game over the weeks ahead, points per game so far, usage, scoring rank, health and games played. Data via the Sleeper API, refreshed daily.