John Bates vs Nate Boerkircher
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
John Bates- Higher projection: 32 vs 27 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 454 vs 465
John Bates and Nate Boerkircher are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. John Bates holds the edge in expert consensus (TE66 to TE67). The 2026 projections are nearly even: John Bates at 32 PPR points (1.9 per game) versus Nate Boerkircher at 27.
Nate Boerkircher is the younger option (age 25), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, John Bates is the clear pick on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Bates | Boerkircher |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 32 | 27 |
| Points / game | 1.8 | - |
| Games played | 15 | - |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #454 | #465 |
| Positional rank | TE67 | - |
| Snap share | 50% | - |
| Red-zone touches | 2 | - |
| Age | 28 | 25 |
| Bye week | 7 | 7 |
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 Nate Boerkircher.
Frequently asked
Should I draft John Bates or Nate Boerkircher in 2026?
John Bates is a clear call over Nate Boerkircher for 2026, on the higher projection and stronger expert consensus.
Who is projected to score more, John Bates or Nate Boerkircher?
John Bates carries the higher 2026 projection at 32 PPR points (1.9 per game), compared with 27 for Nate Boerkircher.
Who is ranked higher, John Bates or Nate Boerkircher?
Expert consensus ranks John Bates (TE66) ahead of Nate Boerkircher (TE67) for 2026.
More comparisons
Verdict blends projections, usage, positional rank, consensus and health. Data via the Sleeper API and FantasyPros consensus, refreshed daily.