Vance McDonald

Week 2 vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Vance McDonald sat out the opener with a foot injury that sidelined him throughout the preseason but it looks like he'll be ready to go this week. I'd expect 15–20 plays from McDonald in his first action. Don't put him in your lineup but he might be worth stashing on your roster, especially with the high number of tight end injuries around the league in Week 1.

Fantasy Upside

Vance McDonald will clearly be the Steelers' top tight end this season and that could add up to some very big games, as his 10-catch, 116-yard effort in the playoffs would suggest. He's a breakout candidate in 2018 who should see upwards of 75 targets if he stays healthy.

Fantasy Downside

That health is a big issue for McDonald. He has yet to play in more than 15 games in his five NFL seasons, missing a game or two here and there. Also, with all of the stars in this lineup, he's the fourth or fifth option.

2018 Bottom Line

The Steelers acquired McDonald just before the season started last year and because of that, some minor injuries forced the team to limit his usage and hold him out of a couple of games because he didn't practice all week. That won't be an issue this season. McDonald should easily surpass his career-highs of 30 catches and 391 receiving yards. His current ADP is in rounds 13-16. He could surpass that in value with a really good season. But expect 40+ catches for 500 or so yards.

Week 17 vs. Cleveland Browns

Vance McDonald returned last week and had 4 catches for 52 yards, his second game in the past three weeks with that same total. Of course, he didn't play in the week in between, so there's that. But he's healthy now and the Steelers want to get him involved in the offense more. He could be a nice sleeper tight end play.