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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ rookie tight end O.J. Howard had his first multi-catch game and touchdown Sunday in the team’s win over the New York Giants. The Bucs’ first overall pick in the draft was left wide open in the first quarter for a 58-yard touchdown catch and later added one catch for 5 yards. He was targeted two more times in the matchup.
The Bucs have consistently relied on Howard to block more than catch so far this season. That trend is likely to stay intact against the New England Patriots Thursday night, despite the favorable matchup. Right now, QB Jameis Winston favors veteran tight end Cameron Brate over Howard to the tune of five more targets.
Fantasy impact: Owners were elated to see Howard’s big touchdown Sunday, but they should not have high expectations about the rookie tight end as a result. Howard almost doubled his total receiving yards with that one touchdown catch. He only has three receptions for 34 yards outside of that 58-yard bomb. Who knows if Howard will ever be that open again? Looking at his full body of work, owners should not put their eggs in Howard’s basket.