Today, we're diving into dynasty tight end rankings straight from our latest podcast episode. Whether you're building for the long haul or chasing immediate production, this guide breaks down the landscape, tier by tier. From elite difference-makers to sneaky buy-low candidates, these tiers include timestamps, direct quotes, and trade strategies to help you navigate your dynasty league.
Tier 1
Discussed at 2:34
"Brock Bowers is a true queen on the chessboard. He can play anywhere: in-line, slot, outside, even as a wildcat QB."
— Dave, 6:11
Key Points:
- Bowers' versatility in Chip Kelly's offense offers massive upside.
- Trey McBride saw a 30% target share last season, sixth among all receivers.
- While Bowers is younger, McBride may have the higher short-term production.
Trade Strategy:
If you're contending, try to acquire McBride for a discount off Bowers. If you have McBride, hold tight unless you can pivot into Bowers plus a strong asset.
Tier 2
Discussed at 6:23
"T.J. Hockenson's still just 27—tight ends don't even peak until 28. His time is now."
— Dave, 8:16
Key Points:
- LaPorta's target share dropped from 21% to 17%—a red flag.
- Hockenson remains a high-floor option despite the Vikings' QB uncertainty.
- George Kittle is the ultimate short-term bet: "Best tight end in football right now," but the age cliff looms.
- Colston Loveland and Tyler Warren have more long-term insulation.
Trade Strategy:
Tier down from LaPorta to Hockenson or Lovelin and pick up a second-rounder.
Tier 3
Discussed at 20:39
"David Njoku was TE4 per game last year—but the Browns' QB carousel worries me."
— Dave, 21:21
Key Points:
- Kincaid and Pitts remain "hold your nose and buy" options.
- Njoku has been a top-10 tight end for three straight seasons.
- Kraft’s upside is tied to Green Bay's evolving offense.
- Andrews and Engram are solid producers, but older.
Trade Strategy:
Look to buy Kincaid, Pitts, or Njoku in a package deal if managers are souring on them.
Tier 4
Discussed at 34:44
- Jonnu Smith
- Pat Freiermuth
- Terrance Ferguson
- Mason Taylor
- Isaiah Likely
- Jake Ferguson
- Elijah Arroyo
- Brenton Strange
"Pat Freiermuth went from TE5 in dynasty to TE18 after one injury-plagued year. Time to buy."
— Dave, 54:10
Key Points:
- Terrance Ferguson: "The Rams are setting him up to be their TE2 behind Puka."
- Jake Ferguson: "Two seasons at 17% target share, but limited upside."
- Mason Taylor: "Could be second on the Jets in targets this year."
Trade Strategy:
Look for buy windows on Freiermuth, Ferguson, and Taylor in TE-premium leagues.
Tier 5
Discussed at 43:15
"Kelce’s still a top-10 redraft guy, but in dynasty, he’s a pass unless you’re win-now and he’s practically free."
— Dave, 51:05
Key Points:
- Kelce: Age cliff is real.
- Goedert: "Just a tight end. He sure is."
- Kmet: Possible late-career breakout candidate if he changes teams.
- Sanders: Intriguing stash in Carolina’s offense.
Trade Strategy:
If you’re contending, consider Kelce or Goedert as throw-ins for short-term TE help. Kmet is a dirt-cheap stash option.
That wraps up the tiers! Dynasty tight end values shift quickly, and the key takeaway is to stay active in the market. Whether you're buying veterans for a win-now push or stashing young upside bets, use these insights—and our full dynasty rankings at Footballguys—to stay ahead of the competition.
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