John Bates vs Justin Joly
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
Justin Joly- Higher projection: 58 vs 32 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 428 vs 454
John Bates and Justin Joly are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Justin Joly holds the edge in expert consensus (TE61 to TE66). The 2026 projections clearly separate them: Justin Joly at 58 PPR points (3.4 per game) versus John Bates at 32.
Justin Joly is the younger option (age 22), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Justin Joly is the clear pick on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and more room to grow.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Bates | Joly |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 32 | 58 |
| Points / game | 1.8 | - |
| Games played | 15 | - |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #454 | #428 |
| Positional rank | TE67 | - |
| Snap share | 50% | - |
| Red-zone touches | 2 | - |
| Age | 28 | 22 |
| Bye week | 7 | 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: John Bates or Justin Joly.
Frequently asked
Should I draft John Bates or Justin Joly in 2026?
Justin Joly is a clear call over John Bates for 2026, on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and more room to grow.
Who is projected to score more, John Bates or Justin Joly?
Justin Joly carries the higher 2026 projection at 58 PPR points (3.4 per game), compared with 32 for John Bates.
Who is ranked higher, John Bates or Justin Joly?
Expert consensus ranks Justin Joly (TE61) ahead of John Bates (TE66) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.