| Antonio Gates SD San Diego Chargers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 1 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 72 | 1059 | N/A | 10 | N/A | 165.9 |
|  |
| A converted basketball player out of Kent State, Gates is perennially considered one of the league's best tight ends. At 6-4, 260, he's a plus-blocker both at the line of scrimmage and at the second level. Despite his size, he possesses a burst off the line and has become a polished route runner. Gates missed six games last season with toe, ankle and foot injuries. It was the first time since 2005 he missed a game, though he has played through minor injuries in recent years. Even with the missed time, his 10 touchdowns tied him for the lead at the position, and he added a seventh year to his record of consecutive seasons with at least eight scores. Thanks to quarterback Philip Rivers' consistent play and Gates' soft hands, Gates led all starting tight ends with a 76-percent reception rate and ranked fourth with 744 receiving yards. Gates also benefited from increased passing in the red zone. After throwing on just 36.3 percent of its red-zone plays in 2009, San Diego returned to a more typical 52.3 percent in 2010. Coupled with the holdout of Vincent Jackson, who averaged 14 red-zone targets the previous three years, this provided Gates with 15 red-zone targets in his 10 games after he saw only 12 in 16 games the previous year. To grasp just how impressive Gates' production was, prorating his stats to 16 games gives him 80 receptions, 1,251 yards and 16 touchdowns. Gates might not reach those numbers this season, but it shows what he's capable of - if healthy. Gates was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list at the start of camp, but he has been making progress and should be able to return to practice soon.
|
|
| Vernon Davis SF San Francisco 49ers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 2 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 65 | 940 | N/A | 8 | N/A | 142 |
|  |
| It was too much to expect Davis to repeat his 130 targets from his 2009 breakout season, but even though he had 37 fewer looks his production was still impressive, more so considering San Francisco's spotty quarterback play. At 6-3, 250, Davis remains one of the league's most athletic tight ends. In fact, he might be the perfect combination of strength, size and speed for the position. Linebackers are no match for his quickness, and he's big enough to outmuscle smaller corners and safeties. These advantages resulted in a tight-end-leading 16.3 YPC. Davis did much of the work himself, using his athleticism to make defenders miss for a position-leading 457 YAC - half of his receiving yards. He led all tight ends with 16 receptions of 20-plus yards, showing his ability to stretch the defense and make plays downfield. While Michael Crabtree (100 targets) stole some of Davis' opportunities, Davis received 13 red-zone targets for the third time in four years, helping him score seven touchdowns, fifth among tight ends. Davis is also durable, playing every game the last three seasons. The 49ers are unsettled at quarterback, but Davis will be a top option in the passing game no matter the signal caller, especially from in close. |
|
| Jermichael Finley GB Green Bay Packers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 3 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 61 | 841 | N/A | 8 | N/A | 132.1 |
|  |
| One of the first tight ends off the board last season, Finley had his season cut short by a knee injury in Week 5. Until that point Finley looked like he was going to earn his lofty draft slot with 21 catches for 301 yards in the first four weeks. Finley has resumed running routes, which means he's already cutting on the surgically repaired knee, and declared in May that it felt "brand new." A lean 6-5, 240, Finley creates matchup problems by using his speed and quickness on linebackers and his size on smaller corners. With Aaron Rodgers as his quarterback and no other reliable red-zone receiver on the roster, Finley has the upside to finish as the league's top tight end, but he'll have to prove he can stay healthy, as he missed three games with an ankle injury in 2009 as well. |
|
| Jason Witten DAL Dallas Cowboys |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 4 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 87 | 1013 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 131.3 |
|  |
| While Tony Romo's season-ending injury in Week 7 last season doomed the Cowboys' season, it was a boon for Witten. Unable to stretch the field, weak-armed replacement Jon Kitna made Witten his favorite receiver (at the expense of Miles Austin). But not only did Witten's per-game averages increase (4.6 catches to 6.5; 54 yards to 67) after Kitna, more importantly, his red-zone targets increased as well. As usual with Romo, Witten was targeted little in the red-zone, getting only four receptions and two touchdowns there in his first six games with Romo. After Kitna took over, Witten saw 12 red-zone targets and scored seven touchdowns. What's more, Witten's seven targets inside the 5-yard line (only one from Romo) were five more than in 2009. Witten was again a PPR monster, catching a position-high 94 passes, 17 more than the next closest tight end. Romo is due back for the Cowboys this season, which means Witten probably won't see a repeat of his career-high nine touchdowns. But Witten has evolved into one of the most consistent tight ends in the league. He's honed the craft of route running, using sharp breaks to cut into the open or come back to the football. Once the ball is secured, he can make defenders miss and can break tackles. So, he should still see plenty of receptions and challenge for 1,000 receiving yards for the fifth consecutive season. |
|
| Owen Daniels HOU Houston Texans |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 5 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 68 | 861 | N/A | 7 | N/A | 128.1 |
|  |
| After starting at a blistering pace in 2009, a torn ACL ended a breakout season for Daniels after only eight games. The Texans eased him back into play last season, limiting his snaps to start the year. Owens' luck didn't get any better as a midseason hamstring injury sidelined him for five games. Once he returned to the field, though, he looked like the Daniels of old. He hauled in 22 catches for 271 yards and two touchdowns over the Texans' final four regular-season games. Owens gets downfield well, using his quickness coming out of breaks to make him an open target - eight of his 38 receptions went for 20-plus yards. Expect him to be a big part of the offense again this year after he inked a four-year, $22 million deal in March. |
|
| Dallas Clark |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 6 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 75 | 840 | N/A | 6 | N/A | 120 |
|  |
| Coming off a career year, Clark was cut down in Week 6 with a season-ending wrist injury. An excellent route runner, Clark's reliable hands have made him a favorite target of Peyton Manning's. While he lacks the vertical speed found with other elite tight ends, Clark makes quick cuts to give his quarterback the small window he needs to deliver the ball. Clark had 37 receptions in his six games before the injury hit, putting him on a 98-catch pace, nearly equal to his 100-reception 2009. While the receptions were still plentiful, his yards per catch dropped from 11.1 to 9.4. He scored three touchdowns before the injury, as he continued to be used effectively in the red zone. Before last season, Clark averaged nine touchdowns on 19.3 red zone targets the previous three seasons. His wrist is expected to be healthy this season, and he'll again be one of Manning's top targets. |
|
| Jimmy Graham NO New Orleans Saints |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 7 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 58 | 644 | N/A | 9 | N/A | 118.4 |
|  |
| A converted basketball player, Graham played one season of football at the University of Miami but showed enough potential that the Saints used a third-round pick on him in 2010. And he showed enough promise as a rookie last year that the Saints let starter Jeremy Shockey walk this offseason, setting up Graham for a potential breakout. A behemoth of tight end at 6-8, 260, Graham came on for the Saints over the second half of last season, posting 26 receptions, 307 yards and five touchdowns in his final eight games. He racked up 43 targets to Shockey's 59 and saw nine red-zone targets to Shockey's 10. With the position all to himself this season in one of the NFL's most explosive offenses, Graham has the upside to be a top-5 tight end. |
|
| Rob Gronkowski NE New England Patriots |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 8 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 51 | 631 | N/A | 9 | N/A | 117.1 |
|  |
| New England drafted two tight ends last season - Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez - which worked out well for the Patriots but made things difficult for fantasy owners. Gronkowski finished with 10 touchdowns, tied for the best mark at the position, though three scores (and 156 yards) came in the final two games when he got extra targets because Hernandez was sidelined. Gronkowski and Hernandez negated each other's value for much of the season as both were used interchangeably. Gronkowski had a monster game Week 10 at Pittsburgh with three touchdowns and 72 receiving yards, but also had seven scoreless weeks with no more than 25 yards receiving. Gronksowski received 16 red-zone targets in 16 games to Hernandez's 10 in 14 games. Should Hernandez go down with injury an again, Gronskowski's value would soar. Tom Brady likes to look for his tight end near the goal line (the duo combined for 16 targets inside the 10), and that would benefit the 6-6, 265-pound Gronkowski, who is also considered the better blocker of the two. With Hernandez healthy, though, Gronkowski will have to settle for splitting targets again this season. |
|
| Marcedes Lewis JAC Jacksonville Jaguars |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 9 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 55 | 688 | N/A | 8 | N/A | 116.8 |
|  |
| A hulking tight end at 6-6, 261, Lewis turned in a career year for the Jaguars last season. He was targeted a career-high 88 times, rewarding fantasy owners by finishing fourth among tight ends with 130 fantasy points. An outstanding blocker, he deserves some credit for Maurice Jones-Drew's success, opening holes at the line of scrimmage. This in turn makes him a useful target in play-action as he slips through initial contact to give David Garrard an open receiver down the seam. Lewis also used his size to become a dependable red-zone receiver last season, getting 15 targets there and eight inside the 10, resulting in 10 touchdowns, tied for most among tight ends. While he increased his 54-percent catch rate from 2009, last year's 65.9 percent is still middle of the pack. Further improvement this season would boost his fantasy value as his 700 yards and 58 receptions ranked just eighth and ninth, respectively, among tight ends. The Jaguars placed the franchise tag on him in February, which means Lewis figures again to be a big part of the team's plans. |
|
| Kellen Winslow NYJ New York Jets |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 10 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 72 | 821 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 112.1 |
|  |
| Winslow played 16 games for the second consecutive season while battling a gimpy knee much of last year. The troublesome knee and the emergence of rookie wideout Mike Williams (127 targets) depressed Winslow's numbers a bit, as did an improved Tampa Bay running game (31 fewer passing plays, 28 more rushing plays). As a result, Winslow received 28 fewer targets, which led to a loss of 11 receptions and 154 yards from the previous season. Josh Freeman hit him for five touchdowns, the same number for the second year in a row, but it wasn't until the second half of the season that Winslow and the Buccaneers heated up (18 points per game vs. 23 points per game). Winslow received nine of his 12 red-zone targets and five of six targets inside the 10 in the final eight games of the season, scoring all of his touchdowns in that span as well. The Bucs drafted blocking tight end Luke Stocker in April, which might free Winslow for more route running. Even if Winslow doesn't get back to the 126 targets he had two years ago, an improving offense with the strong-armed Freeman should continue to work in his favor, especially if it doesn't take half the season to hit its stride again. |
|
| Dustin Keller MIA Miami Dolphins |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 11 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 61 | 722 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 102.2 |
|  |
| At 6-2, 250, Keller shows excellent speed to get open downfield and uses his quickness to make himself an easy target. After the catch he shows good ability to break tackles and get extra yardage after contact. Those skills led to 11 catches of 20-plus yards last season, tied for fourth most at the position. One area in need of improvement, however, is his hands. Keller dropped seven passes last season, none more important than an end-zone drop Week 16 in Chicago. Quarterback Mark Sanchez also became more comfortable with his wide receivers as the year went on, and Keller's role shrank. In the first five games, Keller was targeted nine times in the red zone, including seven times inside the 10, and scored five touchdowns. He never made it into the end zone again, receiving red-zone targets in just three of the final 11 games. As Keller showed early last year, he has plenty upside, but he'll need to remain a significant part of the team's attack. With Braylon Edwards not returning to the team, that could happen in 2011.
|
|
| Tony Gonzalez ATL Atlanta Falcons |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 12 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 61 | 659 | N/A | 6 | N/A | 101.9 |
|  |
| The future Hall of Famer is still a productive fantasy tight end, but he's showing signs of decline. For the fifth consecutive season, his yards per target declined, hitting a paltry 6.0 last season. And after posting 155 targets in 2008, his targets have declined by at least 20 the last two seasons, though he still had a healthy 109 in 2010. Gonzalez also had seven drops last season, a significant number considering he had only 70 catches, his lowest total since his rookie season. He scored six touchdowns, but his 21 red-zone targets and 11 targets inside the 10, both the most among tight ends, suggest Gonzalez should have found the end zone more often. Don't write off Gonzalez, but with Roddy White, who had an NFL-leading 189 targets last season, and prized rookie Julio Jones competing for attention in a run-first offense, it's hard to see the 35-year-old reversing his declining trends. |
|
| Zach Miller SEA Seattle Seahawks |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 13 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 66 | 712 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 101.2 |
|  |
| Given the inconsistency and injuries at wide receiver for the Raiders, Miller has easily been their most reliable contributor to the passing game over the last three seasons. He's shown he's not afraid to go over the middle and has good speed for his 6-5, 255-pound frame. A foot injury last season depressed his numbers, but in the first seven games he posted 453 receiving yards (65 YPG) with four touchdowns. The injury took its toll for the next five weeks, costing Miller Week 9. Not close to 100 percent healthy, Miller's game high in four contests in that span was a mere nine yards. Once Miller got healthy, however, he returned to his pre-injury ways, averaging 5.5 catches and 51 yards in the final four games of the season. Miller was rewarded with a five-year deal from the Seahawks this offseason. His 16 red-zone targets tied him for second most among tight ends, but he'll have to deal with more competition for looks in Seattle.
|
|
| Aaron Hernandez NE New England Patriots |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 14 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 52 | 601 | N/A | 6 | N/A | 100.2 |
| |
| Hernandez had a productive first season last year while sharing tight-end duties with fellow rookie Rob Gronkowski before a hip injury cost him the last two regular-season games. More of a wide receiver in a tight end's body, the 6-2, 245-pound Hernandez is a better receiver than a blocker. His quickness allows him to line up in the slot or at flanker at times, but Gronkowski's prowess as a blocker cost Hernandez playing time. Still, the timeshare netted Hernandez a reasonable 563 receiving yards and six touchdowns, and he was developing a nice red-zone connection with Tom Brady late in the season. But as long as Gronkowski is around, Hernandez is a risky play, exemplified last year by a three-game midseason stretch in which he had just two catches on four targets. |
|
| Brandon Pettigrew DET Detroit Lions |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 15 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 62 | 685 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 98.5 |
|  |
| Even without Matthew Stafford for most of last year, Pettigrew turned in a respectable season and justified his selection as the first tight end off the board in the 2009 NFL Draft. Most important, Pettigrew showed no ill effects from the knee injury that cost him the last part of the 2009 season. Pettigrew had to battle Tony Scheffler early in the season for targets, but it didn't take him long to establish himself as the Lions' top tight end, finishing with 111 targets, fourth among the position. He improved his route-running ability, and his size/speed combo proved to be difficult for opposing teams to defend. At 6-5, 265, Pettigrew needs softer hands, though. He led all tight ends with eight drops last season. His 6.5 YPT mark isn't that special, either, but questionable quarterback play was largely to blame. Pettigrew has excellent upside as the second target to Calvin Johnson in the Lions offense. With a healthy Matthew Stafford back in the huddle, Pettigrew should improve on his 71 receptions, which ranked third among tight ends, and 722 yards, which ranked seventh. |
|
| Jared Cook STL St. Louis Rams |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 16 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 57 | 681 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 92.1 |
|  |
| Cook came on toward the end of last season, recording 15 catches for 196 yards and a touchdown over his final three games. It appears the Titans will let Bo Scaife walk, making Cook the clear-cut starter. If that happens, Cook will be an interesting sleeper pick for the upcoming season. Tennessee has raved about his athleticism since making him a 2009 third-round pick, and he's even drawn comparisons to a young Jermichael Finley. Cook likely will have to work with rookie quarterback Jake Locker but should quickly earn his trust. While he may need to polish his route running, his strength and speed should be enough for him to create separation. Don't be afraid to stash him on your bench and see how he develops.
|
|
| Ben Watson NO New Orleans Saints |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 17 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 65 | 741 | N/A | 3 | N/A | 92.1 |
| |
| Watson was the lone bright spot among the Browns receivers last season, as Cleveland struggled with its passing game, ranking 29th in the league. Watson excels by using his quickness to create separation from defenders and get down field, and he has the body control to make adjustments on a ball after it's thrown. Watson became fantasy relevant when he went from the Patriots to the Browns last season simply due to lack of competition. His targets improved from 41 to 102, and his team-leading 763 yards and 68 receptions were both career highs. However, with the Browns having a run-first mentality with bruising back Peyton Hillis, targets in close (only three inside the 10-yard line) were hard to come by. As a result, Watson only hit paydirt three times. While that might not change this season, Watson should still be the first option in the Cleveland passing game.
|
|
| Brent Celek PHI Philadelphia Eagles |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 18 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 51 | 617 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 91.7 |
|  |
| Celek isn't the strongest blocker in one-on-one situations and doesn't have the greatest hands (eight drops last year). However, he uses his speed and quickness to get in and out of patterns to elude opposing defenders. The switch to Michael Vick at quarterback, though, ultimately undermined his production. While Celek was on a season pace of 100 targets with Kevin Kolb at quarterback, he saw only 47 targets come his way in 10 Vick starts. And that number is misleading as Celek's action was quite inconsistent under Vick - in five games he totaled six targets, recording just two receptions. All told, Celek received 29 fewer targets (12 fewer in the red zone) than in 2009 and finished with 460 fewer receiving yards. The loss of red zone targets resulted in only four touchdowns after he scored eight the previous year. With much of the offense revolving around DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy, Vick might be slow to turn to Celek again this season.
|
|
| Chris Cooley |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 19 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 58 | 645 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 88.5 |
| |
| Cooley relies on tight route running, good hands and tackle-breaking ability to help move the Redskins offense. Cooley was targeted a career-high 125 times last season (second among tight ends), which led to 849 receiving yards, tying his career high. His 77 receptions made PPR owners happy, though they came with only a 7.45 YPC mark. Despite the high number of targets, Cooley didn't get a lot of red-zone work, resulting in just three touchdowns. Four of his 11 red-zone targets, and four of five targets inside the 10, came in the last three weeks of the season when Donovan McNabb was sidelined, something that bodes well as McNabb is unlikely to be back this season. Cooley underwent offseason knee surgery but is expected to be healthy for the start of training camp.
|
|
| Heath Miller PIT Pittsburgh Steelers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 20 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 52 | 588 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 82.8 |
|  |
| Coming off a career year, Miller battled through a concussion in 2010 and turned in numbers more in line with previous seasons. Moreover, Miller's elite blocking skills were needed after Pittsburgh's offensive line suffered a rash of injuries. This led to 32 fewer targets than in the previous season and 277 fewer yards. He also saw less work in the red zone where he saw his targets fall from 17 in 2009 to eight last season for a career-low two touchdowns. If the offensive line is at full strength, and if Miller stays healthy, you can expect a bounce back, especially in the scoring department.
|
|
| Greg Olsen CAR Carolina Panthers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 21 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 48 | 491 | N/A | 5 | N/A | 79.1 |
|  |
| Olsen doesn't have elite speed for the position but has good hands and runs precise routes. Unfortunately, he fell victim to the Mike Martz offense and was used more as a blocker than a receiver. The Bears offensive line was downright terrible at times last year as well, which also forced Olsen to stay in and max protect Jay Cutler. As a result, Olsen only saw 69 targets, a significant drop from the 108 he had in 2009. Chicago's playoff win against Seattle showed Olsen's upside, though, as he hauled in three catches for 113 yards and a touchdown. Following his trade to Carolina, Olsen is in a much better offensive situation for a tight end, making him a good bounce-back candidate.
|
|
| Todd Heap |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 22 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 44 | 528 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 76.8 |
| |
| Health has been the key for Heap for a number of seasons now. He's failed to play a full slate in four of his 10 NFL seasons, including last year when a hamstring injury sidelined him for three games. Even when Heap has notched 16 games, he's often been limited by injury. On the field last year he was effective, posting a career-high 9.4 yards per target. Heap signed with Arizona in the offseason and figures to be the team's starter. The veteran tight end still has arguably the best tight-end hands in the game - he did not drop a pass last year - but he will always be an injury risk.
|
|
| Jermaine Gresham CIN Cincinatti Bengals |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 23 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 47 | 512 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 75.2 |
|  |
| The 2010 first-round pick battled through a late-season knee injury in a steady if unspectacular rookie year. Big and athletic at 6-6, 260, Greshman was excellent after the catch, using his size and skills to break tackles and gain solid yardage after contact. In fact, more than 76 percent (359 of 471) of his yards came after the catch. The way the Bengals used him, though, perhaps stifled his production. Greshman mainly ran short routes (5.7 YPT), depriving him of the opportunity to make plays downfield. And oddly, considering his size, the Bengals only targeted him nine times in the red zone all season. Perhaps that will change this season with last year's top two receiving options leaving town and a trio of young wide receivers left in their wake. The Bengals are unsettled at quarterback, but even if Carson Palmer doesn't return it wouldn't be all doom and gloom if rookie quarterback Andy Dalton took over - he'd likely lean on his tight end as a safety valve.
|
|
| Kevin Boss |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 24 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 39 | 502 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 74.2 |
| |
| For the second season in a row, Boss totaled five touchdowns in 15 games on nearly the same yardage. Boss uses a combination of size and speed to make plays. His 6-6 frame is an asset when matched up against smaller defensive backs near the goal line - he had nine targets inside the 10, third most among tight ends. Boss also gets downfield very well, posting an excellent 15.2 yards per catch, third among qualifying tight ends. His one flaw, though, is hands, as his six dropped passes didn't help his 50-percent catch rate, a very low number for a tight end. Boss had minor hip surgery in January but is expected to be fully healthy for the season.
|
|
| Daniel Fells NE New England Patriots |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 25 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 43 | 448 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 68.8 |
| |
| Fells is looking good in Denver and is somewhat of a favorite to start. Presence of Julius Thomas and Dante Rosario limits his upside, though. |
|
| Lance Kendricks STL St. Louis Rams |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 26 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 36 | 431 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 67.1 |
| |
| Kendricks led Wisconsin last year in the main receiving stats - catches, yards, touchdowns - and brings his pass-catching skills to the Rams. At 6-4, 240, he's on the smaller side for the position, though he showed good strength at the NFL Combine with 25 reps of 225 pounds. While he's a solid receiver, it remains to be seen if at his size he can be an effective blocker off the line. With Michael Hoomanawanui already on the roster and the possible return of Daniel Fells, it appears unlikely Kendricks opens the season as the starter.
|
|
| Visanthe Shiancoe |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 27 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 38 | 386 | N/A | 4 | N/A | 62.6 |
| |
| Shiancoe continued his steady ways for the Vikings last season, breaking 500 yards for the third consecutive season despite inconsistent quarterback play last year. Shiancoe possesses enough speed and agility to get open down the seam and can make defenders miss in open space. His fantasy value took a hit last season, though, with a diminished Brett Favre at quarterback and a less friendly offensive environment generally. After receiving 16 red-zone targets (10 inside the 10) in 2009, Shiancoe received just six last season (three inside the 10), and his touchdowns fell drastically from 11 to a mere two. While Shiancoe will be on the field for most of the team's snaps, the drafting of Kyle Rudolph suggests he could lose some looks to the rookie out of Notre Dame.
|
|
| Ed Dickson BAL Baltimore Ravens |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 28 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 30 | 400 | N/A | 3 | N/A | 58 |
|  |
| Dennis Pitta looking strong in preseason is bad news for Dickson.
|
|
| Fred Davis WAS Washington Redskins |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 29 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 26 | 375 | N/A | 3 | N/A | 55.5 |
|  |
| The outlook for Davis would be much brighter if that Chris Cooley guy wasn't in Washington. Davis is a better receiver than blocker but sees minimal targets. He has good explosiveness for a tight end, as his two catches of 40-plus yards on only 21 receptions show. If Cooley goes down, jump on Davis. Until then, though, Davis is a bit player.
|
|
| Anthony Fasano KC Kansas City Chiefs |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 30 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 31 | 388 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 50.8 |
|  |
| While he's not the quickest of tight ends, Fasano demonstrates the ability to read defenses and find the soft spots to get open. That skill led to nine catches of 20-plus yards, an impressive mark considering he only had 39 receptions. The Dolphins also used him close to the goal line, as his six targets inside the five were tied for third most at the position. Fasano recorded career-highs of 528 receiving yards and 8.8 yards per target. But he only had 60 targets, a career high but only 28th among tight ends, which doesn't offer enough opportunity for production. And that isn't likely to change substantially considering the Dolphins' wideout corps that hogged the targets last season.
|
|
| Kyle Rudolph MIN Minnesota Vikings |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 31 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 32 | 374 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 49.4 |
|  |
| Rudolph was the first tight end drafted in 2011, but he begins the season as the second tight end on the depth chart with the opportunity to learn the nuances of the game from veteran Visanthe Shiancoe. Big and physical at 6-6, 260, the Notre Dame standout still needs to improve his blocking skills, which might be his weakest attribute. He has good speed for his size and will continue to develop strength as a 21-year-old. Coaches have raved about his "coachability" and with his physical tools, Rudolph has the most long-term upside of any rookie tight end. A hamstring injury that had nagged him during the early part of the Notre Dame season shut him down completely for the last six games, but isn't expected to be a problem when training camp starts.
|
|
| Evan Moore PHI Philadelphia Eagles |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 32 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 25 | 355 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 47.5 |
| |
| Moore showed some upside last season with three games of at least 69 receiving yards. His season was cut short by a hip injury, and he now finds himself possibly third on the depth chart after the Browns drafted USC product Jordan Cameron.
|
|
| Travis Beckum |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 33 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 31 | 352 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 47.2 |
| |
| Beckum has pass-catching skills, but he's simply not been used all that much while backing up Kevin Boss. Boss is a free agent, so Beckum could get his chance this year, but chances are the Giants will either sign Boss, or acquire another veteran pass catcher at the position.
|
|
| Martellus Bennett CHI Chicago Bears |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 34 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 27 | 344 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 46.4 |
|  |
| Bennett turned in a solid effort in 2010 as Dallas' second tight end, but didn't definitively establish himself as Jason Witten's heir apparent. He lacks breakaway speed but otherwise has the physical tools to be a potent weapon in the passing game, especially in the red zone, but so far in his career Bennett hasn't shown the focus or discipline necessary to take full advantage of his gifts. With the more polished John Phillips returning from injury, Bennett may have to take a step forward in his development to keep his TE2 spot on the depth chart. |
|
| David Thomas |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 35 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 42 | 399 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 45.9 |
| |
| Thomas was expected to back up Jeremy Shockey last season but was passed by rookie Jimmy Graham on the depth chart. While a change of scenery may have helped his outlook, in the Saints' high-powered offense, it would only take an injury to Graham for Thomas to become fantasy relevant.
|
|
| Joel Dreessen DEN Denver Broncos |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 36 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 20 | 270 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 39 |
|  |
| At 6-4, 260, Dreessen is a solid run-blocking tight end, but for the second year in a row he got the chance to showcase his receiving skills when Owen Daniels suffered an injury. Dreessen improved his 26 receptions from 2009 to a career-high 36 last season, 19 of which came in the five midseason games Daniels missed with a bad hamstring. Dreessen also posted a healthy 14.4-yard receving average, and if Daniels goes down again, Dreessen has proven himself a suitable backup.
|
|
| Delanie Walker TEN Tennessee Titans |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 37 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 26 | 330 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 39 |
|  |
| Undersized for a tight end at 6-0, Walker has done a nice job since converting from wide receiver. He fit the role of backup quite well, grabbing 29 catches for 331 yards last season. It would take an injury for him to deserve fantasy consideration, but Vernon Davis hasn't missed a game the last three years.
|
|
| Tony Scheffler DET Detroit Lions |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 38 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 31 | 312 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 37.2 |
| |
| Scheffler split time with Brandon Pettigrew last season, though the latter is clearly the top tight-end target in Detroit. Scheffler received 72 targets with a low 5.3 yards per target, thanks to erratic quarterback play. Scheffler isn't going anywhere, but Pettigrew has much more upside, and after his big year last season could get a larger share of the tight-end workload this season. In any event, it would take a Pettigrew injury for Scheffler to become fantasy relevant.
|
|
| Zach Miller TB Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 39 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 22 | 245 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 36.5 |
|  |
| Miller showed great promise in his rookie year, but regressed significantly in 2010. As it currently stands, Marcedes Lewis has a stranglehold on the tight end position, and only seems to be improving. Targets may therefore be few and far between for Miller in 2011.
|
|
| Jeremy Shockey |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 40 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 22 | 233 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 35.3 |
| |
| Shockey transitions this year from Saints' third-ranked passing offense to the Panthers' 32nd-ranked passing attack. Shockey could be the team's top receiving option if wide receiver Steve Smith does not return. But that's not necessarily as promising as it sounds, considering the presence of Greg Olsen, the Panthers' run-first approach and quarterback questions. Blessed with a solid speed/power combination, Shockey has displayed a good set of hands as well. One red flag that continues to haunt him is his health. He has never played a full 16-game season and has missed nine games the last three years. Shockey turns 31 this year entering his 10th NFL season, but he still has good tight-end skills. His situation, though, likely will limit his fantasy prospects.
|
|
| Bo Scaife |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 41 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 22 | 213 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 33.3 |
| |
| Scaife endured a disappointing season last year as a groin injury and the emergence of Jared Cook limited his production. Cook came on in the second half of the season, totaling 292 yards in the last six weeks; Scaife had 37 yards during that span, playing in only four games (though he scored twice). Scaife doesn't possess blazing speed but has the ability to go up in traffic and win the ball. He's not expected to return to the Titans this season, which means Cook likely will move into the starting assignment. It also means Scaife's fantasy value will depend on where he lands.
|
|
| Rob Housler ARZ Arizona Cardinals |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 42 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 14 | 166 | N/A | 2 | N/A | 28.6 |
|  |
| Housler put his speed on display at the NFL Combine, running a tight end-best 4.55 40-yard dash. A late bloomer, Housler made himself a prospect after starting only one season at Florida Atlantic. The third-round pick might be in the best position to produce as a rookie, though, considering Ben Patrick was the top Cardinals tight end last season with only 15 catches for 123 yards. Housler will have to improve his blocking but should develop nicely as a receiver, especially now that Kevin Kolb is under center.
|
|
| Ben Patrick |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 43 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 22 | 209 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 26.9 |
| |
| Injury-riddled throughout much of his career, Patrick only factored into the passing game 15 times in 2010, recording 123 yards. For now he's the team's starter, though he'll be push to a reserve role if the team re-signs Kevin Boss.
|
|
| Jacob Tamme DEN Denver Broncos |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 44 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 21 | 206 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 26.6 |
| |
| Tamme become one of the best fantasy pickups of last season after Dallas Clark sustained a season-ending wrist injury in Week 6. Tamme utilized his speed on quick routes to catch the ball on the run. As a result, he recorded 319 YAC, a lofty number considering he started only 11 games. Tamme finished with 631 receiving yards and four touchdowns, but he'll go back to reserve duty this season with the return of Clark, who had offseason wrist surgery. Tamme might have earned a bigger role in the offense for this season, but his ceiling is limited unless Clark goes down again.
|
|
| Dante Rosario DAL Dallas Cowboys |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 45 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 15 | 161 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 22.1 |
| |
| Between Daniel Fells and Julius Thomas, it's unlikely Rosario will earn many snaps in Denver.
|
|
| Michael Hoomanawanui NE New England Patriots |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 46 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 13 | 141 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 20.1 |
| |
| Hoomanawanui receives the occasional red-zone target, but he's primarily deployed as a blocker.
|
|
| Julius Thomas DEN Denver Broncos |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 47 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 11 | 122 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 18.2 |
| |
| A fourth-round draft pick, Thomas finds himself on a Broncos team in need of tight-end production. He played four years of basketball at Portland State before walking onto the football team, but the Broncos believe he has the most long-term upside of their tight-end options. While he needs to improve his blocking at the line he has enough speed to stretch defenses and a good set of hands to make catches in traffic. Dan Gronkowski and Daniel Coats are more adept at blocking than receiving, so Thomas has a shot to earn targets in the passing game.
|
|
| Luke Stocker TB Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 48 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 11 | 99 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 15.9 |
| |
| At 6-6, 250, Stocker fits nicely as the No. 2 tight end for the Buccaneers. With his tall frame comes good strength and power, as evidenced by his leading all tight ends in the bench press at the NFL Combine. A fourth-round pick out of Tennessee, Stocker isn't the fastest of the rookie tight ends, but he has the power to seal off the edge and effectively run-block. Look for his presence to allow Kellen Winslow to be more active in the passing game.
|
|
| Randy McMichael |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 49 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 18 | 157 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 15.7 |
| |
| McMichael saw limited action in the San Diego passing game, even with starter Antonio Gates missing six games due to injury. McMichael still has the ability to be an effective blocker, but his days as a starting tight end have passed.
|
|
| Andrew Quarless GB Green Bay Packers |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 50 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 13 | 144 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 14.4 |
| |
| When Jermichael Finley went down with an injury, Quarless was thrust into a starting role. In 13 games in Green Bay's explosive offense, he recorded only 21 grabs for 238 yards and one touchdown. With Finley healthy, Quarless will return to a back up role.
|
|
| Alge Crumpler |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 51 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 8 | 66 | N/A | 1 | N/A | 12.6 |
| |
| With only six catches in 2010, Crumpler will likely go quietly into the sunset as it's unlikely he will be offered a contract after undergoing surgery in January for a significant shoulder injury.
|
|
| Donald Lee |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 52 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 12 | 121 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 12.1 |
| |
| Lee's production dipped in 2010, despite the injury to Jermichael Finley. He signed with the Eagles and will likely serve as insurance to Brent Celek. Michael Vick does not throw to the tight end much so Lee will likely just serve as a blocker, even in the Eagles' high-powered offense.
|
|
| Jeff King ARZ Arizona Cardinals |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 53 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 14 | 117 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 11.7 |
| |
| King has always made his living as a blocking tight end, which greatly limits his ability to produce in fantasy leagues. Even with a new team, King's role will likely stay the same. He is behind both Todd Heap and Rob Housler on the pass catching ladder.
|
|
| Daniel Graham |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 54 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 12 | 112 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 11.2 |
| |
| Graham signed with Tennessee this offseason, but Jared Cook will likely be the Titans top tight end. If Cook is not ready, however, the Titans could turn to Graham given his history as a reliable target and superiority as a blocker.
|
|
| Jordan Cameron CLE Cleveland Browns |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 55 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 11 | 109 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 10.9 |
|  |
| Another player who converted from basketball, Cameron is something of a project for the Browns as he played only one year of football at USC. His athleticism is evidenced by a vertical leap of more than 37 inches, and he'll have a solid veteran in Ben Watson from whom to learn. With some hard work and improvement in the blocking game, Cameron could work his way into the fantasy picture. It just probably won't be this year.
|
|
| John Carlson MIN Minnesota Vikings |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 56 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 0 | 0 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 0 |
| |
| This time last year, Matt Hasselbeck was touting Carlson as a fantasy sleeper. But the Seahawks virtually ignored him last season after he previously played an important role in the Seattle passing attack. His eight red-zone targets were a far cry from the 14 he received the previous season. And his 58 targets were far off his 82-target career pace. In fact, in eight games last season, Carlson had no more than one reception and failed to catch a pass in two games. Carlson is a good athlete who runs crisp routes and can be an asset in the passing game. How he fits into this year's offense, though, is anyone's guess. The Seahawks have a new offensive coordinator, a new quarterback and signed another tight end in Zach Miller. On IR with shoulder injury.
|
|
| Tony Moeaki KC Kansas City Chiefs |
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM |
| 57 |  |
| | REC | YDS | YPR | TD | TARG | PTS |
| 2013 Projected | 0 | 0 | N/A | 0 | N/A | 0 |
| |
| Moeaki turned in a solid rookie season, finishing with 556 yards and three touchdowns. At times his highlight reel catches conjured memories of old No. 88 in the Kansas City offense. Those catches speak to his athleticism, which, along with a solid set of hands, set him up for decent production. It was disappointing for owners to watch Matt Cassel virtually ignore Moeaki in the red zone as he received only seven targets, and after catching two touchdown passes in the first three weeks, Moeaki had only one more the rest of the season. Perhaps that might change, however, now that Charlie Weis is no longer the offensive coordinator. Tore ACL in last preseason game.
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|
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