Fantasy analysts have often claimed that each season is the year of the tight end, but 2025 truly proved that statement correct with 15 tight ends averaging at least eight half-PPR points per game. This trend is expected to continue into 2026, driven by a mix of emerging talent and established stars.

Key Highlights from Last Season:

• Standout rookies like Harold Fannin Jr., Tyler Warren, and Colston Loveland made significant impacts.
• Veterans such as George Kittle, Travis Kelce, and Dallas Goedert maintained their effectiveness.
• Trey McBride led the tight end position with 14.4 half-PPR points per game, showcasing the depth of talent available.

Tight End Drafting Tiers:

Tier 1 (Rounds 2 and 3)

• Brock Bowers: Expected to lead in targets and potentially finish as the top Fantasy tight end in 2026.
• Trey McBride: While he had a magical season, some regression is anticipated due to an improved run game in Arizona.

Tier 2 (Rounds 3-4)

• Colston Loveland: Emerging star with a strong finish last season; draft him as early as Round 3.
• Tyler Warren: Showed promise when healthy and could thrive with Daniel Jones returning.

Tier 3 (Rounds 5-8)

• Sam LaPorta: Potential top-five tight end with a new offensive coordinator, worth a Round 5 pick.
• Tucker Kraft: Aiming for a strong comeback after injury, draft him no later than Round 7.
• Kyle Pitts: With new coaching, he could see an increase in targets.
• Isaiah Likely: Now with the Giants, he should have an expanded role.

Tier 4 (Rounds 9-11)

• Travis Kelce: A reliable fallback option as he nears retirement.
• George Kittle: Risky but could still be a top-10 option despite injury concerns.
• Dallas Goedert: Solid target for Jalen Hurts, especially in the end zone.

Tier 5 (Rounds 11-14)

• Mark Andrews: Bounce-back potential with new offensive strategies.
• Dalton Kincaid: Expected to play a key role if he can stay healthy.
• Chigoziem Okonkwo: May face competition for targets but still worth a late-round pick.

Tier 6 (Late-round fliers)

• Brenton Strange, Jake Ferguson, Greg Dulcich: Potentially useful in deeper leagues.
• Oronde Gadsden II: Could be a sleeper pick despite competition.

Conclusion

With a solid strategy and awareness of player potentials, fantasy managers can navigate the tight end position effectively this season. Having a tiered approach will offer a clear path to dominating your league in 2026.