The tight-end position in fantasy football has been one of the most challenging to navigate. While there have always been a few elite options at the top for each season, there is a drop-off in consistent production year after year. As we head into the upcoming season, let’s break down the current state of the position and what it means for fantasy football managers moving forward.
The Elite Tier: Kings of the Mountain
Travis Kelce (TE1 6 times since 2016) has sat atop the throne for the last decade, providing unparalleled consistency and high-end production. However, the day of drafting Kelce in the late 1st round may be over due to age and retirement considerations.
Meanwhile, players like George Kittle & T.J. Hockenson remain top options, though their week-to-week output is nowhere near prime Kelce but consistent within themselves. And we have a bit of a youth resurgence with Sam LaPorta (’23) & Brock Bowsers (’24), who were TE1 in the last 2 seasons as rookies.
The Middle Class: Boom-or-Bust Territory
Things start to get a bit risky after passing on those top-tier tight ends. Those available include names like Kyle Pitts, Evan Engram, and Pat Freiermuth – players who have flashed upside but haven’t delivered consistent TE1 numbers.
Pitts, in particular, remains a conundrum; despite the talent, he seems primed for a ”breakout” season every year but has yet to break the Top 5 for tight ends. Engram & Freiermuth have not missed the Top 10 of TEs when they played 16+ games with their current teams.
The Deep Sleepers: Who Can Emerge?
Each season, there are always a few tight ends who come out of nowhere to provide value. In 2024, Jonnu Smith had an ADP of 175.97 but finished the season as TE4. While Tyreek Hill & Jaylen Waddle disappointed most managers, Smith became the safest bet for the Miami Dolphins.
As mentioned earlier, the last 2 TE1 were players in their rookie season. I suggest to start scouting the likes of Tyler Warren & Colston Loveland. Targeting athletic tight ends in high-powered offenses has historically been a winning strategy, and fantasy managers should be on the lookout for potential breakout candidates. As mentioned in one of my recent threads on X.com.
The Strategy Shift: How to Approach TE in Drafts
In the past, drafting a top-tier tight end was the smartest move. As time has gone on, the real home run selections are those mid-round selections. Targeting high-upside players to fill in the holes already made through earlier rounds can lead any fantasy manager to championship glory.
Who will be this year’s game-changing TE? Only time will tell, but making the right call at this position could be the difference between a playoff push and a lost season. Find all the latest outlooks and advice at Blitz Sports Media.