John Bates vs Zach Ertz
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
Zach Ertz- Higher projection: 37 vs 32 pts
- Experts agree: consensus rank 450 vs 454
- More points per game: 2.6 vs 1.3
John Bates and Zach Ertz are a common 2026 draft-day decision at tight end. Zach Ertz holds the edge in expert consensus (TE64 to TE66). The 2026 projections are nearly even: Zach Ertz at 37 PPR points (2.2 per game) versus John Bates at 32.
Last season Zach Ertz carried the heavier workload (29% snap share, 6 touches to John Bates's 4), and opportunity is the most stable predictor of fantasy value. John Bates is the younger option (age 28), which tilts the long-term and dynasty edge. For a 2026 redraft, Zach Ertz is the clear pick on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and the bigger workload.
Head-to-head
| Stat | Bates | Ertz |
|---|---|---|
| Projected points | 32 | 37 |
| Points / game | 1.3 | 2.6 |
| Games played | 4 | 2 |
| Expert rank (ECR) | #454 | #450 |
| Scoring rank (season) | TE54 | TE53 |
| Snap share | 44% | 29% |
| Red-zone touches | 1 | 1 |
| Age | 28 | 35 |
| Bye week | 7 | 10 |
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 Zach Ertz.
Frequently asked
Should I draft John Bates or Zach Ertz in 2026?
Zach Ertz is a clear call over John Bates for 2026, on the higher projection, stronger expert consensus and the bigger workload.
Who is projected to score more, John Bates or Zach Ertz?
Zach Ertz carries the higher 2026 projection at 37 PPR points (2.2 per game), compared with 32 for John Bates.
Who is ranked higher, John Bates or Zach Ertz?
Expert consensus ranks Zach Ertz (TE64) 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.