Divisional Round at Kansas City
James had just two receptions for 16 yards last week, and only had two targets subbing for concussed Ladarius Green. That appears to be the case again this week, and James had a line of 2-15-1 against Kansas City the first time these two teams met back in October. There are better tight end options available than James.
Wild Card Round vs. Miami
The Steelers' tight end position isn't quite as attractive with James manning the spot instead of Ladarius Green, who is now questionable to return from a concussion after missing practice Friday. Miami's defense that has allowed six tight end touchdowns in the past six games, including three in the past two games. With Miami starting two inexperienced safeties, James could be a big factor in this game. The Dolphins are 32nd in adjusted defense against tight ends. But James doesn't get more than three or four looks per game, so unless he scores, he's not a solid play.
Week 17 vs. Cleveland
Looking for a sleeper start this week at the tight end position? Here it is. James had four catches for 49 yards against the Ravens last week and Cleveland's defense is in the same league in name only. The Browns have given up 13 TE touchdowns this season and the Steelers will look to add to that. James' value has largely been tied to his scoring opportunities and he has a good shot of getting into the end zone this week.
Week 16 vs. Baltimore
With Ladarius Green out with a concussion, James should see some targets in the passing game. But James is a TD-reliant player and the Ravens have given up just three touchdowns to tight ends this season. Be warned.
Week 11 at Cleveland
James recorded four catches for 59 yards last week and was on the field far more often than Ladarius Green. That metric will change as the season wears on, but he's still in play for now. Cleveland's defense allows nearly 77 yards to opposing tight ends per game and has given up eight TE touchdowns this season. James could be a below-the-radar sleeper this week, especially in a scoring league format.
Week 10 vs. Dallas
James had two receptions for 13 yards last week on four targets but is largely a TD-dependent player. The addition of Ladarius Green this week could end even that threat.
Week 9 at Baltimore
James has caught 22 of his 30 targets this season, including three for touchdowns. Baltimore hasn't allowed a TD to a tight end this season, but with C.J. Mosley likely locked up with Le'Veon Bell instead of the tight end, James could find a little room. It probably won't be enough for James to be used in your lineup, however.
Week 7 vs. New England
James had just two catches for 13 yards last week at Miami and didn't score for the first time in three weeks. He's a touchdown-reliant player and New England has given up just one TE score this season. There are far better tight end plays this week, even in a bye situation.
Week 6 at Miami
James had six catches for 43 yards and a score against a Jets defense that just can't stop passes to opposing tight ends. The touchdown was James' third of the season, which is a good sign. Ben Roethlisberger is looking his way a lot in the red zone. Miami is at the bottom of the league in points allowed to opposing tight ends and has given up two TE scores. For a player who has been reliant on scoring, that's a good sign. Still, there are better tight end plays available.
Week 5 vs. New York Jets
James had just two catches for 15 yards, but one was a touchdown as he scored for the second time in the first four games. The Jets have allowed 23 TE receptions already this season and have given up 113 yards to tight ends in each of the past two weeks. But James isn't that kind of high-volume producer, and you have to hope for touchdowns. And even at that, James isn't going to give you much else. There are better starts out there.
