Expert Rankings

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: Tyreek Hill is gone, leaving Kelce as the most bankable producer on the Chiefs offense. The biggest quibble with Kelce is a potential age fall-off after a slip to 92-1125-9 in 2021. However, Kelce is one of the safest usage projections of the tight end position where finishing outside of TE3/4 is tough to project.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Father Time is undefeated, but Tyreek Hill's trade to Miami all but guarantees Kelce will sit atop the tight end rankings for at least another season.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: I expect Kelce to have a strong season as the leading target-getter for the Chiefs and deliver as one of the top 2-3 tight ends in fantasy football. However, the Chiefs traded away Tyreek Hill, the most dangerous receiving weapon in the game, after the offense failed to force opposing defenses out of Drop-Eight/Cover 2 looks. Expect more of this across the NFL and while Kelce should earn a lot of targets, I'm expecting fewer big plays without Hill. I'm also expecting fewer big plays for most tight ends in the NFL because seam shots aren't as prevalent or advisable against these coverage types.

Andy Hicks on Jun 14: Travis Kelce is defying age and continues his unparalleled level of production at the tight end positiom. Six consecutive 1000 yard seasons and with the departure of Tyreek Hill, the sure fire number one target in an explosive offense. Surely at some stage his age catches up to him, so in dynasty leagues you have to decide whether to ride him until the end or trade him for younger options.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 1: For the first time in 5 years, Kelce was not the TE1 last season. He didn't fall far, finishing 2nd best at the position. With the Chiefs losing Tyreek Hill, Kelce feels like a good bet to reclaim his throne in 2022 and top-2 is probably his floor. At 32 years old, there is risk but he is still worthy of being the top tight end drafted early in the 2nd Round of fantasy drafts.

Jeff Haseley on Jun 1: Will Travis Kelce rack up the yards and receptions now that Tyreek Hill is out of the picture or was Hill the catalyst in Kelce's success? I'm predicting a slight drop-off from his regular production.

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: Andrews, like Travis Kelce, saw his team's WR1 from last season exit the passing game. Marquise Brown's departure leaves Andrews uncontested (as if he was strongly contested previously) to potentially lead the position in targets in 2022. Andrews has elevated into an elite producer and is firmly in the position's prime production age window as well.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Andrews was always touchdown-dependent, but last year he became Lamar Jackson's most reliable option in any down and distance. With Hollywood Brown traded away, Andrews' place among the elite is assured.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: 6.5.2022: I will be filling in my commentary on all listed players by no later than 6.13.2022.

Andy Hicks on Jun 17: Mark Andrews smashed through the 1000 yard season barrier with a whopping 1361 yards and finally usurped Travis Kelce as the number one fantasy tight end. The departure of Marquise Brown needs to be filled to allow Andrews to excel and the Ravens will have a stronger running game after their backfield was decimated in 2021. Andrews presents a safe floor in all leagues and despite lacking 2021 upside he should be one of the first tight ends taken everywhere.

Jeff Bell on Jun 16: Andrews broke out to lead all tight ends in fantasy scoring. The departure of Hollywood Brown leaves him as the clear top receiving threat in the Baltimore offense. The difference between his 17.7 PPG and TE3 Rob Gronkowski’s 14.3 was the same as WR5 to WR21, presenting a huge positional advantage.

Jeff Haseley on Jun 1: Mark Andrews should once again be a top target for Lamar Jackson, especially with Marquise Brown now on Arizona. He had 33 more PPR fantasy points than Travis Kelce last season and led the league.

Ryan Weisse on May 23: It had been five years since a tight end not named Travis Kelce took the top spot in fantasy but Andrews managed that feat in 2021. With the loss of Marquise Brown and an obvious connection with Lamar Jackson, there is an almost perfect chance that he leads the Ravens in targets again this season. It's rare for a tight end to cross 100 targets these days, and Andrews bested 150 last season. While he and Kelce are again close, my money is on Andrews to start his own streak atop the fantasy tight end rankings in 2022.

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: Pitts' rookie year stat line was historic for a rookie tight end. The lone blemish is a single touchdown on his log, where any reasonable touchdown rate would have fueled a top-half TE1 season out of Pitts. Expect Pitts to crash the TE4/5 threshold this season with a few more touchdowns and being a centerpiece passing game element for the likely-to-trail-plenty Falcons.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Pitts had a remarkable rookie season that exceeded my expectations. Breaking 1,000 yards at the tight end position as a rookie portends greatness, and as long as Arthur Smith can find competency at quarterback, the sky is the limit.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: I doubt Marcus Mariota will be better than Matt Ryan. Mariota is a worse game manager under pressure. Like Robert Griffin III from years ago, Mariota is athletic but a straight-line runner who makes bad decisions from the pocket under pressure. Atlanta's line must become significantly better for Mariota to have a chance and I don't see how that will happen this year. Drake London is a nice addition, but I'm not expecting him or any of Atlanta's receivers to take the coverage's primary focus away from Kyle Pitts. Pitts will be a fantasy starter of value but he'll need a lot more touchdowns than last year to deliver elite production and I don't think it happens unless we see production of another receiver that mimics the way Calvin Ridley was doing it in 2019-2020.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 1: Pitts' rookie year feels simultaneously like a major accomplishment and disappointment. The 110 targets were exactly what we hoped for when he was drafted and it's hard to complain about 68 receptions and over 1000 yards. However, one touchdown scored did not exactly light up the lives of fantasy managers. He finished as the TE6 but four more touchdowns would have put him over 200 fantasy points as the TE4. There has to be a concern about a step back at the quarterback position but volume should not be an issue in 2022.

Jeff Haseley on Jun 1: Kyle Pitts impressed as a rookie last season but he has not hit his peak. There is more to come for Pitts and there isn't much competition for targets in Atlanta.

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: Waller missed games in 2021 for the first time in his elite production string, plus posted a meager two touchdowns. This offseason has Davante Adams added to the Raiders passing game, plus Hunter Renfrow coming off a breakout season. Waller has elite talent, but reaching an elite fantasy ceiling will be tougher than 2020 and 2021 with Waller's competition for targets at an all-time high.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Waller was a disappointment last year and now target vacuum Davante Adams comes to town. Waller still slots as the No. 2 option in a high-volume passing attack, but the days of thinking Waller had Kelce upside are behind us. He's a tier below, but still one of the better options on draft day, particularly in TE-premium scoring systems.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Waller should have even greater production efficiency with Davante Adams in the fold, whether Adams' presence increases overall production is up for debate. Still, it's safe to presume that Waller will be a top-five option at his position.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 10: The addition of Davante Adams has called into question Waller's role as a dominant fantasy tight end. While Adams is sure to take targets away, there should be enough to keep Waller around 100 targets for the season. With Adams commanding more attention, Waller may be able to score more touchdowns. We've seen very prolific touchdown scoring by tight ends in a Josh McDaniels offense. He is still on of the best fantasy options at a bad position and anything lowering his ADP is better for the fantasy manager that lands him.

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: Missed games have been commonplace for Kittle the past three seasons, 13 total, and a high touchdown season has eluded the 49ers' tight end (career-high six in 2021). Kittle has regularly been the bridesmaid instead of the bride when discussing the TE1/2 overall, instead falling into the next subset.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Kittle hasn't played a full season for three years, and most likely will be playing with a new quarterback in Trey Lance. Yet, he's coming off a career-high 6 touchdown season and looked like himself for most of 2021. At a position starved for impact contributors, Kittle is still worth the price.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Kittle has played a full season in the NFL once in five years and he's missed 33 percent of his potential starts during the past two seasons. He won't be physically ready to go until training camp and the 49ers just signed free agent Tyler Kroft as a minor hedge. There will also be a change in quarterbacks at some point this year. A great football player with elite fantasy upside but enough factors to weigh down my trust in him as a safe pick as early as his ADP requires.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 9: Kittle is still arguably the best tight end in football, just not the best in fantasy. He is a better blocker than most and with Trey Lance at quarterback, that skill will be invaluable. We just don't get fantasy points for blocking. Last season, he still finished with 94 targets, despite playing in just 14 games. So the volume potential is there, but a good portion of that was with Jimmy Garoppolo at quarterback. It's a small sample but Kittle was at about 6 targets per game when Lance had significant playing time.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Schultz lacks the athleticism of his TE1 peers, but no one can argue with his role or productivity. Dallas franchised him because he's become a vital piece of the league's No. 1 scoring offense.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: A skilled underneath option against zone coverage, Schultz will likely be one of the top 3-4 targets in the passing game, especially with Amari Cooper in Cleveland.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 9: Schultz broke out in 2021 and there is no reason to think that changes this season. He was a top-5 tight end last year on 104 targets, and with Amari Cooper now playing in Cleveland, there is a solid chance Schultz's targets see an uptick. A high-volume tight end with high touchdown upside is a dream come true in fantasy right now.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Hockenson only played 12 games last year, which is the second time in three seasons he's missed a big chunk of the season. Until he proves more durable, it's hard to invest a high pick in him despite transcendent talent and All-Pro upside.

Jeff Bell on Jun 27: The team addressed the wide receiver position with DJ Chark in free agency, Jameson Williams 12th overall in the draft, and Hockenson's absence coincided with Amon-Ra St. Brown's breakout. The young talent could allow the offense to emerge. But there is also a chance a crowded target tree causes Hockenson to finish in a large group of tight ends. At his ADP, he's trending at a sixth-round pick, offering minimal production over what you gain later at the position.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Hockenson only played 12 games last year but if he maintained his 11.9 fpts per game average in PPR formats for a full 17, he would have been the No.4 option at the position and the No.3 option if he simply played 16 games. With D.J. Chark on the perimeter and Amon Ra-St. Brown a year wiser, look for Hockenson to earn better opportunities in the Lions offense and continue producing at a high enough rate per game to join the top-five options at the position in 2022.

Ryan Weisse on May 24: Hockenson was averaging seven targets per game last year before his injury. That volume translated to 12.1 fantasy points per game, which would make him a top-5 fantasy option. Every number he put up last year is repeatable, even with new competition for targets. Hockenson is one of the best options at fantasy tight end, he just needs to stay healthy.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Goedert is good, but not great. He does most things well, but with A.J. Brown added to the mix along with 2021 Heisman Trophy winner Devonta Smith progressing, Goedert's ceiling is capped. The Eagles won't have the passing volume to support multiple receiving options on a weekly basis.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Goedert had a nice points per game average last year and while it's possible that the addition of A.J. Brown will be a net positive for Goedert's target efficiency, it could also be a net negative for his target volume. I'm expecting the efficiency gain to be smaller than the volume decline and it makes Goedert a borderline TE1/TE2 rather than a clear-cut TE1 in many formats. August developments will factor into my assessment of Goedert's upside.

Andy Hicks on Jun 30: When you draft a tight end expected to be your starter, you are looking for possible top-six production. In other words upside. With Zach Ertz, his current ranking is his ceiling. The Cardinals will throw and run the ball across the depth chart. Maxx Williams returns after looking like a breakout season was on the cards and Arizona drafted Trey McBride in round two as a receiving specialist. Maybe Ertz has a good game or two, but he is most likely to disappoint your expectations.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Ertz looked like his old self after a few weeks in Arizona, and the Cardinals decided to keep him around for a few more seasons. Arizona spreads the ball around, but with Christian Kirk gone and Deandre Hopkins suspended for half the season, Ertz could have a strong start to the season.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Ertz will be the lead tight end and one of the top three passing game options while DeAndre Hopkins serves as six-game suspension. That said, Trey McBride should not be overlooked as a factor who won't overtake Ertz this year, but he could shave a little off the top of Ertz's production upside. Ertz is a low-end TE1 on the cusp of TE2 territory, depending on league size.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Gesicki set career marks for targets, receptions, and yards last season but the touchdown luck (2) offset his growth. Assuming positive touchdown regression, Gesicki could sneak into the top-10 conversation. However, adding Tyreek Hill to the mix makes Gesicki a low-priority target in most game scripts.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Gesicki should earn more efficient targets this year, but I'm skeptical he earns the same volume as previous years. If Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle stay healthy and Gesicki earns strong volume, it's because Tua Tagovailoa is playing above expectation. Gesicki earns higher marks from most because they think of the 49ers offense and presume Gesicki earns George Kittle's role but Kittle is a far more versatile option with greater athletic upside as a ball carrier. The likely answer is that Gesicki maintains a low-end TE1 upside. If I increase Tagovailo's production, Gesicki will be a beneficiary.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Based on talent and career progression, Freiermuth deserves to rank higher. But until we have clarity on whether Mitch Trubisky or Kenny Pickett are up to the challenge of guiding a high-efficiency passing offense, we have to treat Freiermuth more as a high-ceiling TE2.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Kenny Pickett will eventually earn the starting job and Pickett does a good job targeting the tight end position. Freiermuth's rookie year will have fantasy analysts worried that his production was too TD-dependent. Catching 60 of 79 targets should be the counterargument. Expect another year similar to 2021 for the young tight end, even with the instability at quarterback.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Dawson Knox is a complementary piece of the Bills puzzle, not someone who presents matchup nightmares for opposing defensive coordinators. But as long as the Bills continue to sling the ball around at a breakneck pace, Knox will have low-end starter value.

Jeff Bell on Jun 20: Knox finished as TE9 on a PPR per game basis. He’s a third-round pick, plays a position we know takes some developmental time, and improved across the board (targets nearly doubled from 44 to 71, catch percentage rose 54% to 69%). He plays in one of the highest-scoring offenses in the league, his 88% of available snaps were the second most of any skill player, and he plays video games regularly with the best quarterback in fantasy football. And people will look for any reason to fade. 184 targets are leaving this offense with Cole Beasley and Emmanuel Sanders, more than enough for popular breakout player Gabe Davis to build upon his 63. If he maintains his catch rate and yards per target while adding just two additional targets per game, he’s a near-lock to deliver a top 5 TE season despite potential touchdown regression.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 7: Knox's fantasy value relies on touchdowns, and there are some obvious concerns. The Bills added a few wide receivers this offseason and even brought in O.J. Howard at tight end. Perhaps more importantly, they drafted a running back in the 2nd Round of the NFL Draft, and James Cook presents a threat to Knox's touchdown count. If Knox ends up with fewer targets and touchdowns, you'll want no part of him and his TE24 floor in fantasy football.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Hunter Henry's early career injuries cast a shadow over him, and provide a compelling discount on draft day. The Patriots threw huge money at Henry and Jonnu Smith last offseason, but 2021 proved it was Henry who deserved the paycheck. In an offense without bonafide playmakers, Henry remains a viable TE1 in most league formats.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: There are a lot of questions about the Patriots' offense after Josh McDaniels' departure, but expect Henry to be a top target for Mac Jones. When you see the number of trust-throws in contested scenarios that Jones made with Henry, it's safe to view Henry as one of the safest offensive options for the team and among fantasy tight ends.

Andy Hicks on Jun 20: Much was expected from the two tight ends acquired in free agency by the New England Patriots. Jonnu Smith had the bigger wallet and produced disappointing numbers. Hunter Henry ended up leading the league in touchdowns, tied with three others. There is room for improvement in Mac Jones and the Patriot offense, with more receptions and yardage highly likely. Henry isn’t going to threaten the leading tight ends, but should outperform his draft slot.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Injuries are a massive concern, but Smith has flashed in limited playing time. The Vikings remain committed to him based on their lack of alternative moves in free agency or the draft. If Smith is healthy and productive in the preseason, he's worth targeting as a breakout. But he has to stay on the practice field, or he's ignorable.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: This is a prove it year for Smith and the Vikings want to accommodate Smith's skills with a spread offense. Even so, it will take injuries for Smith to be anything more than the third option in this passing game. He might not even be a strong third option if Dalvin Cook and K.J. Osborn earn a bump in targets. The volatility of offensive role and injury history makes Smith an option with TE1 upside but a much lower floor.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: The Bears' inept offense hid impressive underlying growth for Kmet last season. If the new coaching staff can unlock Fields' passing prowess, Kmet could be this year's emergent star.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Cole Kmet failed to score a touchdown last year. If he scored 5-6 with the receiving production earned in 2021, Kmet would have been a TE1. This tells you that if Justin Fields and the coaching staff improve their quality of work in the red zone, Kmet has TE1 value. Chicago tight ends scored 10 times in 2020 with similar production in other receiving categories when comparing to 2021. Kmet is worth consideration as a second tight end in drafts who could wind up your TE1 if Fields and the Bears gain efficiency as decision makers.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 7: My concerns for Kmet stem from a new offensive scheme. Chicago's new head coach comes from a Green Bay staff that hasn't targeted the tight end position more than 100 times in the last two seasons. That's the entire group; no single player has crossed even 60 targets. Last season, Kmet could not crack the Top 20 or score even a single touchdown, despite 93 targets. Mid-round tight ends almost always disappoint, and Kmet has a floor outside the Top 20.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Noah Fant's fates lie entirely in what Seattle does at the quarterback position. If it's Geno Smith, Drew Lock, or Baker Mayfield, Fant should be avoided in all but the deepest leagues.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Seattle tight ends averaged 102.5 targets, 74.5 catches, 728.5 yards and 5.5 touchdowns during the past two years. That's the entire tight end room, not one player. Fant is certainly capable of increasing these totals with the work he can command, but he requires a lot more scheming from the offense to generate that production. In contrast, the best tight ends do more with one-on-one matchups than Fant has shown capable despite his excellent athletic gifts. I'm probably too low on Fant, but even if I am, he shouldn't be mistaken as a TE1 this year if the quarterback depth chart remains as it is.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Higbee had another solid season, and his role as a complementary piece should be intact for another few seasons. But he's far enough along in his career to know the chances of a TE1-breakout campaign are unlikely.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Higbee is more than capable, but he has to stay healthy. Although he has only missed five games during the past three years, he has played with an assortment of nagging injuries that have limited his potential in the receiving game. His touchdown totals have increased during the past two season despite the injuries. Even so. he's used as the third or fourth option, at best in the passing game and that's unlikely to change in 2022. Higbee is a good bye-week option with upside if the profile of the offense has to change due to injury.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Okwuegbunam is the latest in a long line of middling tight ends the fantasy analyst community tries to talk themselves into loving.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Okwuegbunam has TE1 upside and could emerge as such this year because of his red-zone prowess and Russell Wilson's skill with seam routes. Greg Dulcich's potential as a receiver may take away some of that production ceiling but if there's an option at this position I'm likely to bump up the board, it's Okwuegbunam because of his speed, underneath routes, and contested catch skills.

Ryan Weisse on Jun 10: When trying to predict a new offensive scheme, I focus on two things: the coach and the quarterback. Hackett's scheme in Green Bay has produced a top-10 tight end, but that was purely based on touchdowns, which is a hard stat to predict. Russell Wilson hasn't given us a fantasy-relevant tight end in five seasons. He has instead been leaning on his top wide receivers. This Broncos team has a very talented wide receiving corps. So, there is a good chance that there will not be enough volume to make Okwuegbunam anything more than a weekly streaming option.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Evan Engram never panned out in New York, but the Jaguars still believe the best is yet to come. Don't count on it.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: We all know Engram is physically capable of TE1 value. We also should all know that Engram doesn't stay healthy, drops a lot of passes, and has underachieved after making his mark as a rookie. Perhaps the light comes on for Engram, but I'd rather wait and see than invest substantial draft capital on him.

Ryan Weisse on May 24: Engram has always had the tools to succeed, but his health, and far too many drops, have held him back. Lawrence is an upgrade to Daniel Jones, and Doug Pederson's offense loves throwing to the tight end, he just needs to capitalize on the opportunity. We haven't seen a fantasy relevant season from him since 2017 despite being targeted over 60 times in every season since his rookie year. Regardless, you have to chase volume on lower-end tight ends in fantasy, so if you plan on drafting a tight end late, Engram should be on your radar.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Everett will catch what's thrown to him but lacks the dynamism to do more after the catch or break big plays downfield. He'll have a role in Los Angeles, but his target share won't support a role in most fantasy leagues.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Jared Cook was on his last legs in 2021. Look for Everett to provide an upgrade. He's a strong player after the catch with enough speed to win up the seam and track the ball over his head. Look for him to deliver as a strong TE2 in most formats as Justin Herbert's No.4 option.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: The Browns made Njoku one of the league's highest-paid tight ends, which speaks to his opportunity. But a litany of injuries and subpar season totals leave me disinterested at the asking price.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Njoku is an excellent physical talent and he was a top draft prospect at his position. However, he didn't work at his craft well enough to prevent a lot of unforced errors with his game as a blocker and receiver. Before the season where the Browns went deep into the playoffs, Njoku asked for a trade. A year later, Njoku -- or perhaps his agent -- generated buzz for working harder in the offseason. If, like Jared Cook, Njoku matures as a professional with his approach to his job, he could become a strong fantasy TE1. Until then, I prefer to wait and see. Harrison Bryant isn't as athletic as Njoku but he's a savvier route runner who doesn't commit as many errors who could earn more targets with a new passer at the helm.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Tonyan's 2021 was lost to injury, but with Davante Adams gone, Tonyan could re-emerge as a high-TD producer.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: I'm probably too low on Tonyan at this point of the year. After all, the Packers' tight ends earned 93 targets, 75 catches, 819 yards, and 15 scores during Tonyan's 2020 campaign. This year, I have the depth chart earning 94 targets, 56 catches, 595 yards, and 6 scores. I'll be increasing Tonyan's production as we learn more about his progress rehabbing a Week 8 ACL tear. If he's ahead of schedule, expect Tonyan to earn low-end TE1 production. If not, he might have a rockier season due to his recovery time table.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Thomas is on the wrong side of 30 years old and only has one strong season under his belt, but Carson Wentz loves throwing to the tight end across the middle and in the red zone. Consider Thomas a high variance option as your starter.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Carson Wentz's best fantasy trait is his ability to connect with tight ends. Although the Colts didn't have a single stand-out tight end last year, Mo Alie-Cox and Jack Doyle combined for value that was equivalent to a low-end TE1 in fantasy leagues. Thomas was an the cusp of elite production in 2020 when he played a full season. Expect a return to this type of volume and production. He's ahead of schedule with his ACL rehab.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Middling numbers in two seasons in Cleveland, but has a massive target share opportunity in Tennesse if he can quickly build rapport with Ryan Tannehill.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Hooper was a TE1 with Matt Ryan for two years before joining a crowded tight end room in Cleveland with a sub-par starting quarterback who didn't read the field well. Ryan Tannehill isn't as accomplished as Ryan, but he's a notch better than Baker Mayfield. Hooper has potential for borderline TE1 value but will likely be most serviceable as a bye-week matchup option with TE2 value.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Rookie tight ends rarely put up big numbers, but Jordan has the pedigree, skill set, and opportunity to break out for a young Texans offense desperate for playmakers.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: The Texans need more reliable options in the passing game beyond Brandin Cooks. The two that offered the most long-term potential as more than role players were Nico Collins and Jordan, the second-year option from Miami. If Jordan attains his goal of becoming a three-down option, he could be the No.2 or No.3 option in the passing game this year.

Ryan Weisse on May 25: Hype and draft capital did not line up for Jordan last year but he played well when he got the chance. He didn't play until Week 8, but was targeted 28 times and scored three touchdowns. He could easily double those stats in 2022, and will be on many streaming lists if the Texans commit to using one tight end instead of a committee.

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Hurst is a journeyman option with acceleration to get up the seam and he does solid work as an check-down option in the underneath zones. Look for Hurst to team with Drew Sample as a 1-2 punch in the offense with Sample as the in-line blocker and Hurst the primary receiver. Cincinnati has four compelling options ahead of Hurst in the passing game, so anything north of 600 yards and 5 touchdowns for Hurst would be a surprise. Fantasy TE1 territory is not in the cards, but Hurst can offer compelling bye-week production with a friendly mathcup.

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: The retirement announcement of Rob Gronkowski opens the door for Brate to be a fantasy factor. However, Tampa Bay has ample time to address the position, if desired, in free agency (think Jared Cook) before Week 1. Plus, it has been years since Brate's career peak usage and production.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: If Rob Gronkowski retires, Brate will be a steal for anyone who rostered him early in draft season. If Gronk plays, Brate is an easy avoid.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Brate is the most game-proven tight end on the roster after Rob Gronkowski announced his retirement. Keep an eye on Cade Otton, an underrated route runner and blocker who could emerge fast enough in training camp to earn a role. Don't expect the Tampa tight ends to have remotely the fantasy ceiling they had with Gronkowski in the fold unless the team adds a proven veteran starter. And that proven vet could be Gronkowski after the halfway mark of the season, according to Drew Rosenhaus' conversation with Adam Schefter.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: The converted basketball player will have his moments but lacks the regular targets to factor into 12-team leagues.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Rookie Jelani Woods was a workout warrior this winter, but that athletic ability did not show up as well on film. Even if Woods proves worthy of his draft capital and the buzz the fantasy community has bestowed, it's unlikely to happen in 2022. Alie-Cox is the best receiver on the position's depth chart and expect him to lead the way. He'll deliver compelling bye-week production for fantasy GMs.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Fell well short of expectations last year, and was handily outplayed by Hunter Henry. Expect more of the same in 2022.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Smith has bye-week value dictated by matchup and future knowledge of his role as a the second tight end in the Patriots offense. He'll offer borderline TE1 upside if Hunter Henry misses significant time, but don't expect Smith to offer the same savvy with routes or as high of a catch rate.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: An alarming injury history, but probably gets the first crack at the starting role unless Tyler Conklin balls out this summer.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Uzomah has red zone skills and can work the seams but he'll also be splitting time with Tyler Conklin, who is a better route runner and arguably a better pass catcher. And until we see progress from Zach Wilson, both players are late-round speculative additions or options for the waiver wire.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Didn't emerge in Jared Cook's absence, although the quarterback situation was partially to blame. Can Winston unlock Trautman's value? Don't draft him counting on it, but be open to the possibility.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Trautman is in a prove it year and he'll have a much better receiving corps that should increase the efficiency of his opportunities. However that receiving corps of Jarvis Landry, Chris Olave, and Michael Thomas means Trautman will rarely be the primary option on a play. Unless he makes good in most of is high-leverage situations, it's unlikely his role translates to fantasy TE1 value unless one of these three options gets hurt, or Jameis Winston delivers an elite season and can support 4-5 fantasy options. I'm expecting a good year for Winston, but not a great one. It means Trautman's value as a TE is possible, but not likely.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: As detailed with Njoku's ranking, Bryant is a skilled receiver and the Browns have noted they have underutilized him. Baker Mayfield's decision-making and pocket feel exacerbated the underutilization of Bryant. If Bryant's production is promising early in the year, he'll be worth a priority addition off your waiver wire.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: A promising athlete as an H-Back, the Panthers are in flux at the quarterback position. He should be available on waiver wires early in the year. Monitor.

Jeff Haseley on May 23: Tommy Tremble had seven games with 2+ receptions as a rookie in 2021 and remains a player who should continue to develop in Carolina's offensive structure in 2022 and beyond.

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Moreau might be the best backup TE in the league. He has legitimate top-12 fantasy receiving talent and should earn a starter contract elsewhere when his rookie deal expires. If Darren Waller missed significant time, Moreau is a priority addition from your waiver wire.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Could be in line for a starting role in New York, but rookie Daniel Bellinger is already pushing for snaps.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: A journeyman pass catcher who does his best work against zone coverage. He can have bye-week value, if not more, but he's rarely anything more than a check-down option with occasional schemed plays in the red zone.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: McBride is the most game-ready rookie tight end in this draft class and he should earn some regular playing time in two tight end sets with Zach Ertz this year. This may only translate to a modest amount of production but with Maxx Williams still recovering from injury and DeAndre Hopkins serving a six-game suspension, an injury to Ertz could vault McBride into a bigger role and he has the skills to leverage it into fantasy value.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: An athlete capable of the occasional big play, but not a cornerstone piece of the Chargers offense.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Conklin is one of several options in New York, but can he earn the starting role? Any chance of fantasy relevance hinges on a monstrous training camp.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Conklin is a skilled receiver and route runner as a detached tight end or on the wing. He's also a better blocker than his size indicates. For now, expect him to split duties with C.J. Uzomah in New York. Be ready to adjust to the dictates of Zach Wilson and you might find fantasy value from one of these options by the end of September.

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Otton becomes more intriguing. He's an excellent blocker with underrated receiving skills that his quarterback at Washington didn't optimize. Rookies rarely offer starter production at the position, but Otton's skills are good enough that, if called upon, especially with Tom Brady at the helm, he could generate fantasy value off the waiver wire.

Jeff Haseley on May 23: Frank Reich and his staff are loaded with fast, rangy, tall, big catch-radius receivers, and Granson, albeit a tight end, also fits that role. He will likely be used as such as a hybrid move tight end/receiver in this offense. Fantasy success at the tight end position is difficult to come by in Indianapolis due to multiple options sharing the target share. Granson is a player to watch as he continues to expand his knowledge at the position.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: A rocky start at mini-camp bodes ill for Howard doing much in Buffalo.

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Dulcich has speed to win up the seam and he tracks the ball well. His blocking needs work. Expect him to earn a contributing role this year, but not one with great production value. If this changes, it's because the Broncos see potential to give Dulcich the Noah Fant role as a highly schemed target who doesn't have to win one-on-one. Monitor this potential over the summer.

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Is he a quarterback or a tight end? And does it really matter for fantasy purposes?

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Okonkwo has a lot of qualities similar to Delanie Walker. He's proving a quick study thus far in OTAs. Although he's not expected to overtake Austin Hooper this year, he could generate occasional fantasy value as a part of two tight end sets, especially as the Titans wait for Robert Woods to rehab his ACL and deal with the likely ups and downs of a young receiving corps.

Chad Parsons on Jun 29: Gronkowski announced his retirement, but there's still a chance he plays in some capacity in 2022. In deeper leagues, Gronkowski is still worth a late flyer selection considering the per-game upside Gronkowski offers at a position with a substantial drop-off after 20-25 options.

Jason Wood on Jun 28: Gronkowski announced his retirement, and since he was a free agent we shouldn't view this as a ploy to avoid training camp. He may return mid-season, particularly if the Buccaneers are on another playoff push, but he shouldn't be drafted in any league that goes less than 24 tight ends on draft day.

Andy Hicks on Jun 28: The retirement announcement by Rob Gronkowski appears fairly strong. That said if Tampa Bay is high in playoff considerations and they need help at Tight End, I can see a situation where he plays down the stretch. A full season, not so much.

Jeff Haseley on Jun 28: Rob Gronkowski was a steal at his ADP prior to his retirement announcement. He is worth a late-round dart throw in deeper leagues just in case he elects to return to the Bucs and Tom Brady for another playoff run. Perhaps the best course of action is to hold off and potentially add via waivers if and when he returns.

Sigmund Bloom on Jun 28: Gronkowski has already changed his mind about retirement once, and if and when the Bucs (read: Tom Brady) need him, he may come back. In deep leagues or large field tournaments (especially TE premium) that might merit a draft and stash.

Anthony Amico on Jun 28: Gronk has retired for now, but the upside of a return is still worth a stab late in drafts. He was a top-5 TE in 2021.

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: He'll be back in Tampa for one more year. He has essentially stated as much on social media and he only needs 1-2 weeks to be ready. Although no longer the dominant athlete he was at his peak, Gronkowski remains an elite football player at his position and the Buccaneers need him more than ever with Chris Godwin rehabbing and Antonio Brown walking away from his career.

Jason Wood on Jun 28:

Matt Waldman on Jun 27: Calcaterra's strength is catching the ball and winning against zone or making tight-coverage plays up the seams on red zone plays. If Dallas Goedert gets hurt, Calcaterra could earn some bye-week value for fantasy GMs depending on the matchup.