The Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for their Week 17 matchup against the Houston Texans, and all eyes are on tight end Mark Andrews. Andrews, who has been on fire lately, heads to the game with four consecutive finishes inside the top-tier tight ends and has found the end zone nine times this season. His recent exploits include scoring against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking the first time he connected with the goal line against them this season. Heading toward this Christmas Day showdown, Andrews holds considerable fantasy value, especially with the Ravens relying on his playmaking ability during their playoff push.
Andrews' performance has become the talk of fantasy football, as he enters this week ranked as the overall TE5. A resurgent range of productivity has seen Andrews overcome slow starts. Early-season struggles saw him score just 9.5 fantasy points within the first four weeks. His incredible turnaround stems from notable efficiency, as he's notched nine touchdowns across 10 games—even with his maximum reception count resting at six and yards not exceeding 68. The Ravens' reliance on Andrews is evident, but it raises concerns about his dependency on touchdowns to deliver returns for fantasy managers.
Despite the Houston Texans' notable defense against tight ends—only allowing 8.2 fantasy points per game—Andrews' situation is bolstered by teammates Nelson Agholor and Justice Hill being ruled out due to concussions, along with Zay Flowers being tagged as questionable. This means the tight end could see increased snaps and targets, making him even more attractive for fantasy starters.
Barring any last-minute setbacks, Andrews appears cleared for action, having been absent from the injury report. Full participation during practice sessions this week has him primed for the game on Christmas. This is especially good news for Ravens fans hoping to see him extend his touchdown streak against the Texans. Historically, Andrews has managed to score on alternating games, and with the Texans' defensive performance declining recently, his chances of hitting pay dirt again remain promising.
Fantasy football enthusiasts have much to weigh when deciding whether to activate Andrews on their rosters. Currently projected to score around 11.5 points—including stats estimated at 4.1 receptions for 49.3 yards and 0.4 touchdowns—his scoring potential is significant, even against a tough Texans defense. Adding to this allure is the Texans' struggles against red-zone offenses, sitting among the worst statistically. For those who have held on through the early struggles, patience might just pay off handsomely come Christmas.
With the season coming to the wrap, this week holds championship importance for many fantasy leagues. The Ravens, eyeing playoff qualification, will look to Andrews as one of their key offensive weapons as they take to the field against Houston. For fantasy managers staring at start-sit decisions, the question of whether to play Andrews or other tight ends like Travis Kelce or T.J. Hockenson looms large. Given his targeted role red zone efforts, those who include Andrews may find themselves boosting their points total.
Keep your eyes peeled for the Ravens and Andrews on Christmas Day as they battle the Texans at 4:30 p.m. ET. The tight end's performance could be pivotal, reflecting not only his individual growth this season but also the Ravens' chances to secure wins and move toward playoffs. This match will not only be about personal stats but rather how this team positions themselves as the competition heats up. Expect Andrews to contribute, with the hopes high for maintaining his scoring streak against Houston's promising yet unpredictable defense.
