Week 9 NFL Advanced Analytics Superstars

Tight End: Delanie Walker

Delanie Walker, TE, Tennessee Titans
7 Receptions, 95 Yards, 8 Targets, 2 Touchdowns
NEP: +9.80

A bit of a repeat from last week, no? Week 8's top performers were led by Drew Brees and Benjamin Watson and we see find a similarity in this week with the top quarterback relying on his tight end for big plays throughout the game.

Delanie Walker was a consistent target for Mariota, catching 7 of 8 targets for 95 yards and 2 touchdowns. Walker found himself in the right place at the right time several times throughout the game, making some ridiculous plays off tipped passes including one for a 61-yard touchdown.

Walker's +9.80 NEP was buoyed by 4 of his 7 receptions going for either first downs or touchdowns. He now has a Reception NEP of 39.8, seventh-highest among all tight ends on the season. Despite an earlier injury in the year, Walker now leads all Titan receivers in receptions (42), targets (52), and receiving yards (456) and is tied with Kendall Wright for the most receiving touchdowns (3).

A look at the rest of the top tight end performances this week brings about some familiar faces. Tyler Eifert got Week 9 started with a bang, catching three touchdowns. He now leads all tight ends with nine touchdowns on the season. Owen Daniels brought his A-game with a fresh side part and elevated his game after seeing the Broncos bring in more competition at the tight end position with Vernon Davis. Daniels saw a season-high 102 receiving yards and was able to reach the end zone. Garrett Celek took advantage of Davis' departure and converted both of his targets into touchdowns.