High-Cost Option: Jordan Reed ($6,600)
Jordan Reed led all tight ends in top-six weeks last season, consistently displaying a high ceiling at the position. He also led the position in percentage of his team's red zone targets (27.3%), developing some terrific chemistry with Cousins. The Steelers are currently three-point road favorites in one of this week's highest projected scoring games. Averaging over eight targets per game last season, Reed could be Washington's most dangerous weapon what could be a shootout.
Mid-Cost Option: Jason Witten ($4,100)
Jason Witten has owned the New York Giants during their last few matchups. In his last six games against the Giants, Witten has averaged 17.3 fantasy points per game and scored seven touchdowns over that span. Despite turning 34 this offseason, Witten remains one of the NFL's Ironmen, not missing a game since 2003. He's also been incredibly efficient. He saw 19.7% of the Cowboys’ targets last season, sixth-highest among tight ends. Only Reed, Delanie Walker, and Gary Barnidge had more receptions than Witten (77) and games of 8 or more targets (8). It's a little scary rostering Witten in a rookie quarterback's first start, but his track record suggests he has a safe floor.
Low-Cost Option: Dwayne Allen ($3,200)
If looking to save a few bucks in Week 1, Dwayne Allen is very enticing. Detroit allowed 10 top-12 weeks to opposing tight ends last season, ranking 29th in FootballOutsiders' DVOA against the position. The Lions struggled protecting the interior of their defense, tying the Raiders with the most touchdowns allowed at the position (12). Luck and Allen have shown great rapport in the red zone over the course of their careers, connecting on 16 of 22 red zone targets for 10 touchdowns. With Coby Fleener gone, it's Allen's show.
Other options to consider: Coby Fleener ($4,900), Vance McDonald ($3,100), Jared Cook ($2,900)