NFL Player News

Mallory had two receptions for 29 yards on two targets in Saturday's preseason win over Chicago.

Mallory missed the preseason opener with a hamstring injury but had a nice showing working with the second- and third-string units. The 2023 fifth-round draft pick faces an uphill battle to win a roster spot amid a crowded tight end position, but he could open the season on the active roster with Mo Alie-Cox (ankle), Jelani Woods (hamstring) and Andrew Ogletree (knee) all sidelined.

Kincaid recorded three receptions on four targets for 45 yards in Saturday's 27-15 preseason loss to the Steelers.

Kincaid began his day with the first unit as Dawson Knox (finger) was forced to miss the game. His first catch as a pro came from Josh Allen, though Kincaid connected with Matt Barkley for gains of 21 and 16 yards. Kincaid is likely to have a significant role in the offense come Week 1 of the regular season, and he flashed his big-play potential in Saturday's exhibition contest.

Kelce brought in his only target for 20 yards in the Chiefs' 38-10 preseason win over the Cardinals on Saturday night.

Kelce played the first quarter alongside Patrick Mahomes and other starters, making his mark with his one reception. The multi-time Pro Bowler is likely ready to go for the regular season following Saturday's workload, so he could well sit in next Saturday afternoon's preseason finale versus the Browns.

Freiermuth brought in his only target for a 25-yard touchdown in Saturday's 27-15 preseason win over the Bills.

Freiermuth capped the Steelers' second offensive possession with a long catch down the middle of the field for the score. He's played only briefly during the preseason, though he's still managed to show rapport with quarterback Kenny Pickett. It's unclear whether Freiermuth will suit up for Pittsburgh's third preseason game, but he appears to be ready for the regular season.

Schultz (ribs) had two receptions on three targets for 10 yards in Saturday's preseason loss to Miami.

Fantasy managers will be relieved to see Schultz get into an exhibition contest after dealing with a rib injury out of camp. The 27-year-old signed a one-year deal to move across the state and start for the Texans after four seasons with the Cowboys. With little competition for targets at tight end in Houston, Schultz could see his usage and fantasy value rise from the already solid levels they boasted during his time in Dallas. Expect the receiving threat to be one of rookie C.J. Stroud's favorite targets this upcoming season.

Kittle (groin) isn't in uniform ahead of Saturday's preseason game versus the Broncos, Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com reports.

Kittle thus will miss the 49ers' first two exhibitions due to an adductor strain that he's been dealing with for more than a week. The team likely will continue to exercise caution with its top tight end with an eye toward him being available Week 1 at Pittsburgh.

Gesicki (shoulder) is not expected to play in Saturday's preseason contest against the Packers, Evan Lazar of the Patriots' official site reports.

Gesicki dislocated his shoulder in practice earlier this week and should be considered doubtful to play again this preseason. The Patriots are hoping Gesicki will be able to return in time for Week 1. Hunter Henry is dressed for Saturday's exhibition.

Ertz (knee) isn't slated to play in Saturday's preseason game versus the Chiefs, Josh Weinfuss of ESPN.com reports.

This comes as no surprise less than a week removed from the Cardinals activating Ertz from the active/PUP list. He kicked off training camp on that list due to his recovery from ACL and MCL tears in his left knee that occurred Week 10 of last season. In the end, Arizona may be aiming for Ertz to be ready to go for a Week 1 road matchup with the Commanders, meaning exhibition action may not be in the cards.

Strange recorded three receptions on four targets for 23 yards in Saturday's 25-7 preseason win over the Lions.

Strange was the second tight end on the field after incumbent backup Luke Farrell. He ended up getting a significant amount of run late into the second quarter, and his most significant contribution came on a 15-yard gain that was primarily based on work after the catch. For now, Strange appears to be third on the tight end depth chart, though he could jump Farrell prior to the close of the preseason.

Knox (finger) won't play in Saturday's preseason game against the Steelers, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Buscaglia notes that Knox's finger injury has the tight end considered day-to-day, so it doesn't appear as though his Week 1 status is in danger. With the Bills expected to play a number of their key players Saturday, Dalton Kincaid should have a chance to get some work in with starting QB Josh Allen.