NFL Week 12 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Greg Olsen and More Sleeper TEs to Start

Fantasy studs like Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham should put up big numbers again this weekend, but they won’t be the only tight ends making serious fantasy contributions. Look for this less-heralded trio to step up with big-time numbers in Week 12:

Greg Olsen, Carolina Panthers

Even assuming Jeremy Shockey returns to the field tomorrow (as expected), he's not going to be 100 percent. That will mean a few more balls going Olsen’s way this week, and we all know how awful the Colts’ pass defense has been in 2011.

Cam Newton will certainly put up big numbers in this matchup, and Olsen should be one of the major beneficiaries.

As big a year as Steve Smith has had, Olsen only has one fewer TD than the star wideout. Look for another score or two this week in a Panthers rout in Indianapolis.

Jake Ballard, NY Giants

Overshadowed by WRs Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks, Jake Ballard has nonetheless established himself as a solid red-zone replacement for the departed Kevin Boss. With the Giants likely needing a shootout to win in New Orleans, Ballard should get plenty of opportunities to get on the scoreboard again.

The Saints’ pass defense is mediocre, ranking just 19th in the NFL, so Ballard should be open more often than not. Look for him to snag his fourth TD of the season (and maybe even his fifth) on Monday night.

Heath Miller, Pittsburgh Steelers

Among many problems in Kansas City’s recent slump, the Chiefs have been unable to contain opposing tight ends. No team has allowed more fantasy points to TEs in the last five weeks than Kansas City.

Miller is always a threat to make plays in the red zone, so don’t be surprised if Ben Roethlisberger looks his way on Sunday. Even with the Steelers likely to have this game in the bag by halftime, Miller should put up a strong week for fantasy owners.