The tight end position in fantasy football can be fragile. Yes, you have your elite targets, the players who can produce wide receiver-level numbers. But if you wait to draft at the position (like I do), then your pool of veteran talent looks pretty similar. The key is finding the usage and deployment that can lead to consistency and fantasy success.
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We know Trey McBride and Brock Bowers won't last long in drafts. They are plug-and-play starters expected to deliver 15-plus points a week while delivering breakout games. I see Colston Loveland and Tyler Warren right on the edge of that top pairing. Rising stars. After that, we get into multiple groups of tight ends with varying skill sets and offensive fits.
Let's break down players by specific tiers to give you more direction heading into fantasy draft season. I have six tiers, starting with the elite talent and ending with the names to keep an eye on as the season progresses.
Tier 1: The elite targets
Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals Brock Bowers, Las Vegas Raiders
McBride and Bowers carry superstar value due to their overall usage and route deployment. McBride led all tight ends with 18.7 fantasy PPG last season, catching 126 of 169 targets for 1,239 yards and 11 scores. Those are wide receiver numbers.... Bowers played in only 12 games because of injuries, but he scored 14.7 PPG (tied for second most), and we know what he can do in a full season, as he caught 112 passes as a rookie in 2024. These tight ends should be the first off the board in drafts, with the expectation of providing weekly high-end production.
Tier 2: High-end TE1s
Colston Loveland, Chicago Bears Tyler Warren, Indianapolis Colts
Loveland's game elevated late in his rookie season, as he scored at least 21 fantasy points -- and saw 10 or more targets -- in each of his final four games, which included the Bears' two playoff matchups. He's a three-level route runner with rare formation flex, and don't be surprised if he's Caleb Williams' top target this season.... Warren scored 11.1 PPG as a rookie and finished as TE4 in total points. He's a rugged mover with the physicality to produce after the catch. Warren had 6.5 targets per game in 2025, and that number should climb this season. Both tight ends should be viewed as top-flight starters.