Dan Mader's Fantasy Football Top TE Rankings

The landscape of fantasy football tight ends is as dynamic as ever entering the 2024 season, with a blend of established stars and promising newcomers vying for the spotlight. From perennial favorites like Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews, who continue to defy expectations, to rising talents such as Sam LaPorta and Trey McBride poised to build on breakout seasons, the diversity in talent and potential makes this position a crucial focus for fantasy managers. As teams adjust offensive strategies and capitalize on emerging stars, navigating the tiers of tight ends becomes essential for drafting success. Let's explore how these players stack up and what to expect as the season unfolds.

Tier 1

1.Travis Kelce TE - KC (6), +1 vs. ECR 

Despite facing several challenges during the 2023 season, including playing through injury and experiencing a dip in key metrics like target share, yards, and yards per route run, Travis Kelce managed to maintain his status as a top-tier fantasy tight end. Kelce's lowest target share since 2020 and a career-low average depth of target (ADOT) did not prevent him from finishing tied as the TE1 in points per game alongside LaPorta. Looking ahead, Kelce enters the upcoming season with renewed optimism thanks to a new extension and the presence of legitimate deep threats in the Chiefs' offense. These factors suggest that Kelce could be poised for a bounce-back season, potentially reclaiming his place among the elite fantasy tight ends if he can return to full health and benefit from a more favorable offensive scheme.

2.Sam LaPorta TE - DET (5), -1 vs. ECR 

Sam LaPorta had an exceptional rookie season, setting a high bar for incoming tight ends by finishing as TE1 with nearly 900 yards and 10 touchdowns, leading all TEs in scoring. However, maintaining such lofty production as a sophomore presents challenges, particularly with an 11.2% touchdown rate that may regress.

LaPorta commanded 120 targets and a 22% target share, numbers that could see a slight decrease if Jameson Williams commands more targets. Despite potential adjustments, LaPorta remains a top-tier talent in an offense that complements his skills, making him a solid TE2 behind Travis Kelce in rankings.

Tier 2

3.Trey McBride TE - ARI (11), +1 vs. ECR 

Trey McBride emerged as a standout at tight end in fantasy last season, particularly after taking over as the full-time starter in Week 8. His impressive 29% target share was among the highest for any tight end, projecting 144 targets and 112 receptions over a full season. McBride excelled with the second-highest yards per route run and ranked fifth in fantasy points per route.

Despite his productivity, McBride only scored three touchdowns, despite seeing significant red zone targets (11, ranking 11th). Looking ahead, the Cardinals' offensive dynamics have shifted with the drafting of Marvin Harrison as the presumed WR1. McBride remains poised for a robust target share as the team's second option, solidifying his status as an elite tight end in fantasy. With Kyler Murray back for a full season and potential improvements in the offense, McBride could see increased scoring opportunities in 2024.

4.Mark Andrews TE - BAL (14), -1 vs. ECR 

Mark Andrews had a typical elite season for a tight end until his injury limited him to just 10 games. Despite the shortened season, he finished as the TE4 on a points-per-game basis and even managed more touchdowns (6) than in 2022 (5). Andrews stands to benefit significantly from Odell Beckham Jr.'s departure, as Beckham's 15% target share will likely funnel more opportunities to Andrews.

Last season, Lamar Jackson's distribution saw Andrews with a 21% target share, the lowest since his rookie year, yet he still excelled. Andrews is also unique in that he has a direct backup in Isaiah Likely, who performed admirably in Andrews' absence, finishing as the TE4 from Weeks 12-18. Drafting Andrews means potentially adding Likely as a handcuff, ensuring consistent production even if injury strikes again.

5.Dalton Kincaid TE - BUF (12), +0 vs. ECR 

Everyone wants to get excited about Dalton Kincaid's Week 8-12 stretch when he was TE4 overall and on pace for 190 .5PPR fantasy points, which would have ranked him second only to Sam LaPorta last season. However, potential drafters should consider his usage after Dawson Knox returned.

From Week 14 onward, Kincaid fell to TE22 on a points-per-game basis, as Knox's blocking ability limited Kincaid's snaps and opportunities. Despite this, I have Kincaid ranked as my TE5 overall. The Bills are light on target earners, and Kincaid's second year should see more development, better inline blocking, and increased utilization. While his ADP as TE5 reflects his ceiling value, ensure you draft him in round 5 or later in 12-man leagues to avoid losing value. The next tier of TEs, including Kyle Pitts, Evan Engram, and David Njoku, projects to be close in performance.

Tier 3

6.Kyle Pitts TE - ATL (12), +1 vs. ECR 

Kyle Pitts enters the upcoming season with considerable excitement, fueled by his inherent talent and anticipated improved health. After a stellar rookie season where he became the first tight end since Mike Ditka to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, Pitts struggled with lingering knee issues in 2023, impacting his performance. Despite this setback, Pitts remains a highly regarded talent at the tight end position, known for his ability to dominate on the field. Heading into the new season, the optimism surrounding Pitts centers not only on his potential to return to peak physical condition but also on the considerable upgrade at QB and play caller.

7.George Kittle TE - SF (9), -1 vs. ECR 

George Kittle's impact on the 49ers' offense has been undeniable, especially highlighted by his efficiency metrics. Despite ranking 10th in targets with 90, Kittle led all tight ends in yards gained and yards per route run, while also placing second in average depth of target (ADOT) and touchdowns. Historically known for his occasional inconsistency due to fluctuating target shares, Kittle has shown promising signs of steadier production under quarterback Purdy, averaging 5.8 targets and 0.6 touchdowns per game.

This trend suggests that Kittle could be poised for more consistent and productive performances, reinforcing his status among the top tight ends in fantasy football.

Tier 4

8.Jake Ferguson TE - DAL (7), +1 vs. ECR 

Jake Ferguson made a notable impact last season, finishing as the TE9 on a points-per-game basis. Despite not being an exceptional athlete, Ferguson managed to secure a solid 16% target share, placing him second on the team in that regard.

In the Cowboys' offense, quarterback Dak Prescott has historically relied on tight ends as reliable options, as seen with Jason Witten and Dalton Schultz. Now entering his third year, Ferguson could continue to progress and capitalize on his role as the team's second target. Positioned as a back-end TE option, Ferguson's floor seems secure, with potential for further growth as he matures in his prime years.

9.Evan Engram TE - JAC (12), -1 vs. ECR 

Evan Engram presents a compelling case as a TE option this year, especially for securing a player with consistent volume and reliable production. Despite uncertainties surrounding the wide receiver corps, Engram has managed to maintain a significant role in the offense. In 2023, he commanded a 24% target share, following an 18% share in 2022. This consistency translated into TE6 and TE8 finishes in points per game across those respective seasons, highlighting his ability to produce reliably regardless of the team's other offensive weapons.

What sets Engram apart is his ability to accumulate yards through healthy volume and chunk plays downfield rather than relying heavily on touchdowns, with just four scored in each of the past two seasons. This approach not only underscores his floor but mitigates some of the typical volatility associated with tight-end production. Looking ahead, Engram's projectable role within the offense provides reassurance for fantasy managers. Despite potential fluctuations elsewhere in the passing game, Engram's track record suggests he will continue to be a pivotal target for his team, making him a valuable target in drafts for those seeking consistent TE production beyond the top-tier options.

Tier 5

10.Dallas Goedert TE - PHI (5), +2 vs. ECR 

Dallas Goedert's fantasy outlook reflects both his potential and the challenges he faces. Historically, Goedert has shown himself to be a talented pass catcher, capable of producing top-10 fantasy tight end numbers on a points-per-game basis, especially before the 2023 season when he finished as TE13. He operates within a high-scoring offense with a consolidated target share, factors that often lead to fantasy success.

However, Goedert's availability has been a significant issue, having missed eight games over the past two seasons and not playing a full season since his rookie year. This inconsistency in health limits his ability to reach the upper echelon of tight ends despite his talent and situation. Since the arrival of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, Goedert finds himself as the third option in the target pecking order. While he maintains a target share between 19% and 20%, this places him on the cusp of the top 12 tight ends but not firmly within it.

This situation categorizes him more as a low-end TE1 or high-end TE2 rather than a bonafide TE1 tier player in fantasy football. For fantasy managers, Goedert represents a viable late-round pick if waiting to draft a tight end or a top streaming option in redraft leagues. His status as a low-end TE1 or high-end TE2 reflects the overall strengthening of the tight-end position in fantasy this year, where several viable options can provide solid production.

11.Pat Freiermuth TE - PIT (9), +2 vs. ECR 

Pat Freiermuth endured a disappointing 2023 season, plagued by injuries and sporadic involvement in the Steelers' offense, despite his breakout performance in 2022 when he surpassed 1,100 receiving yards.

However, the arrival of Arthur Smith as the Steelers' new offensive coordinator brings a silver lining. Smith has a track record of heavily involving tight ends in his schemes, particularly in the red zone. While some may recall mixed results with Kyle Pitts in Atlanta, Smith's traditional approach tends to favor inline tight ends, maximizing their productivity. Considering the Falcons' tight end group collectively saw over 160 targets, 100 receptions, 1300 yards, and 7 touchdowns under Smith's tenure, there exists significant potential upside for Freiermuth.

If he can overcome his injury setbacks and solidify himself as the second primary target in the Steelers' passing game, Freiermuth stands to benefit from Smith's playbook and could see a resurgence in his fantasy football relevance.

12.David Njoku TE - CLE (10), -2 vs. ECR 

David Njoku had a season of mixed outcomes despite finishing as the TE7 on a points-per-game basis. For the first 12 weeks, playing with the likes of Deshaun Watson, PJ Walker, Jeff Driskel, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson at quarterback, Njoku was the TE13 on a points-per-game basis. However, during weeks 13-17 with Joe Flacco, Njoku surged to become the TE1.

The disparity in his performance is stark. Over five games with Watson, Njoku's 17-game pace was 88 targets, 68 receptions, 598 yards, and 3 touchdowns. Conversely, with Flacco, his 17-game pace would have been 150 targets, 106 receptions, 1326 yards, and 14 touchdowns, which would have ranked among the best seasons ever for a tight end. Perhaps head coach Kevin Stefanski will recall Njoku's late-season productivity and prioritize him in the game plan. The hiring of Ken Dorsey might also indicate a more aggressive passing approach that could benefit Njoku. However, if Watson continues his trend of primarily targeting outside receivers, Njoku might struggle to see consistent volume.

Dorsey, whose play-calling experience in Buffalo didn't heavily feature the tight end position, could maintain that philosophy in Cleveland. Drafting Njoku as the TE12 places him in the low-end TE1 tier, reflecting a balanced perspective on his potential. He could either exceed expectations significantly or fall short, with much of his fantasy value hinging on the external factors of quarterback play and offensive scheme rather than his own talent. This makes him a high-risk, high-reward pick in fantasy drafts.

13.Brock Bowers TE - LV (10), -2 vs. ECR 

Brock Bowers stands out as one of the most promising tight-end prospects in recent memory. His talent and potential are undeniable, but history suggests that even top-notch prospects like Bowers often take time to fully develop in the NFL. Tight end is a position known for its steep learning curve, with most players not hitting their stride until their third year in the league.

While Bowers has the upside to quickly ascend to become a top-two passing option for his team, it would be wise for fantasy managers to temper expectations given the typical developmental timeline for rookie tight ends. Considering Bowers within the top 12 tight ends is reasonable due to his potential impact, but pairing him with a safer, more established tight end who offers a reliable floor could mitigate the inherent risk associated with relying on a rookie at this position.

Tier 6

14.T.J. Hockenson TE - MIN (6), +2 vs. ECR 

Drafting T.J. Hockenson as a starting tight end in fantasy football raises several concerns, primarily due to the uncertainties surrounding his situation. The Minnesota Vikings are facing a transition at the quarterback position, which inherently brings unpredictability to the passing game. Moreover, Hockenson is expected to begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, potentially sidelining him for the first 4-6 games as he continues recovering from an ACL injury.

This absence means he will miss valuable training camp and preseason reps, crucial for any player returning from injury. Given these factors, investing in Hockenson as a starting tight end comes with significant risks. Fantasy managers must weigh the uncertainties around his recovery timeline, the new quarterback situation, and his historical production when making decisions in their drafts. It might be prudent to consider alternative options with fewer unknowns or to draft Hockenson with a backup plan in mind until more clarity emerges on his health and role within the offense.

15.Hunter Henry TE - NE (14), +2 vs. ECR 

Hunter Henry presents an intriguing case for fantasy football consideration heading into the upcoming season. Despite finishing as TE15 in .5PPR formats last year, he operated in a challenging environment with subpar quarterback play and an overall lackluster offense. These factors contributed to his mid-level TE2 performance, where he managed a 14% target share and capitalized with a notable 9.8% touchdown rate.

Looking ahead, there are reasons to be optimistic about Henry's potential for improvement. The departure of certain offensive constraints and the introduction of potentially better quarterback play could enhance the overall efficiency and volume of the New England Patriots' passing game. Furthermore, Henry's role as a red zone threat is solidified, suggesting he will continue to be a reliable option for touchdowns.

Given the lack of established wide receiver options in New England and Offensive Coordinator Alex Van Pelt's propensity to involve tight ends heavily in the passing game, there's a strong argument that Henry could emerge as one of the team's primary receiving targets, potentially even ranking second overall. This opportunity bodes well for Henry to establish a consistent week-to-week floor in fantasy lineups.

For Henry to ascend into the top 12 tight ends this season, an uptick in target share will be crucial. If he can secure more targets and maintain his red zone efficiency, he has a clear path to achieving TE1 status in fantasy football. Therefore, while Henry may start as a strong TE2 option, his potential upside makes him a valuable target in drafts, particularly for managers seeking reliable tight-end production with room for growth.

As fantasy football enthusiasts prepare for another thrilling season, the tight end position offers a tantalizing mix of reliability and untapped potential. Whether banking on proven performers like George Kittle and Kyle Pitts to deliver consistent production or banking on breakout candidates like Pat Freiermuth and Brock Bowers to emerge as game-changers, the depth and variety among tight ends provide avenues for strategic drafting. With each tier representing a blend of experience, opportunity, and upside, choosing wisely based on team dynamics and performance trends will be key to securing fantasy football success in 2024.