John Bates vs Matt Hibner
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
Matt Hibner- Experts agree: consensus rank 424 vs 454
- More points per game: 3.0 vs 1.3
- Better scoring rank so far: TE45 vs TE53
John Bates and Matt Hibner are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Matt Hibner holds the edge in expert consensus (TE60 to TE66). The 2026 projections are nearly even: John Bates at 32 PPR points (1.9 per game) versus Matt Hibner at 32.
Last season John Bates carried the heavier workload (43% snap share, 6 touches to Matt Hibner's 5), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. Matt Hibner is the younger option (age 24), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Matt Hibner is the clear pick on stronger expert consensus and more room to grow.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Bates | Hibner |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 32 | 32 |
| Points / game | 1.3 | 3.0 |
| Games played | 6 | 6 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #454 | #424 |
| Scoring rank (season) | TE53 | TE45 |
| Snap share | 43% | 43% |
| Red-zone touches | 1 | 1 |
| Age | 28 | 24 |
| Bye week | 7 | 13 |
Highlighted value wins each row. Season stats are 2026 (PPR); projections, ADP and consensus are for 2026.
Setting a lineup this week? Start/sit: John Bates or Matt Hibner.
Frequently asked
Should I draft John Bates or Matt Hibner in 2026?
Matt Hibner is a clear call over John Bates for 2026, on stronger expert consensus and more room to grow.
Who is projected to score more, John Bates or Matt Hibner?
John Bates carries the higher 2026 projection at 32 PPR points (1.9 per game), compared with 32 for Matt Hibner.
Who is ranked higher, John Bates or Matt Hibner?
Expert consensus ranks Matt Hibner (TE60) 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.