To view the previous segment in the “Days of the Offseason” you can click here.
Tight end has never been a deep position, at least for fantasy football. This year however could break that mold.
Rookie TEs don’t tend to produce fantasy relevant points in their 1st year, but when their talent develops on par, we’ve seen some game wrecking TEs.
A few traits that matter to me when breaking down a TE and things that seem to translate to success in the NFL is as follows:
- Route Tree
- Hands
- Blocking
- Footwork
- Physicality
When analyzing a TE on their film, I like to see strength on their first step and quickness every step after. While blocking stats don’t count in fantasy football, they translate to more play time.
1. Kyle Pitts
Kyle Pitts is an absolute superstar. There isn’t a way around that. You can’t line up a linebacker, or even two, to try and guard this man. He is a NFL OC’s dream and a DC’s nightmare.
Pitts has great hands, as he attacks the ball at its highest point; and in case you didn’t know, linebackers are not getting up there to get that ball. He can make NFL level catches on all 3 levels of the field.
His footwork is in need of some tuning, but his route tree is definitely more advanced than your average TE. Being able to beat defenders with your routes and still being one of the biggest guys is something to marvel at.
Pitts will not only create mismatches where ever he lands, but he will bring a boost to the WR core around him. He’s will have instant impact, and will be immediately feature in any offense he’s drafted too.
2. Brevin Jordan
I have one worry with Brevin Jordan and that’s it. His blocking has to get better. NFL coaches like when you can make a defender miss, but love it more when you can hold up in pass protection.
Jordan brings some of the quickest feet in the class, and can make defenders miss in the open field. He’s built different, literally. He isn’t your protégée TE, but brings some of the most versatility in the class.
He split time at RB and the slot, and will be an excellent new weapon for an OC to use when needed. He’s got good hands, and has shown to be a hard worker. He has been the best TE in his conference for years.
Brevin Jordan is a guy you can snag in the 3rd-round in your fantasy football rookie drafts and if you are needing some cheap upside at a premium position; he’s an absolute must.
3. Pat Freiermuth
Pat Freiermuth is huge, but doesn’t show like he’s 265-270. He has good short to medium route running, but lacks some explosion on most routes.
Granted, at his size it’s hard to become a quick and elusive guy off the jump. He can high point the ball well, but does have a tendency to catch with his body. He isn’t afraid to run anyone over and uses his size to his advantage.
His blocking needs work, but has shown progression over his days in college. He’ll become a safe outlet for whatever QB he ends up tied too, and could see volume as early as year 1.
4. Tre’ McKitty
Tre’ McKitty is an overlooked athlete that brings versatility with him. While he only made 6 receptions this season, he’s shown good blocking and his versatility brings another element to his game.
He can lineup anywhere on the field and comes with a profile that can fit just about anywhere. McKitty has the upside to be a solid starting TE in the league, but has almost zero floor.
With a late 4th-round flier in fantasy football drafts, I’ll be looking to add McKitty. His ability to work the line and his footwork between the numbers is stupendous. He’ll need some developing through real game repetition, but that’s nothing that can’t be teached.
McKitty is my TE4 in this class solely based on the projected upside. His talent and physical stature will be loved by his team, and will be a scary sight to see when lining up against his. The question now remains how is his draft capital and usage in the first few years.
As always, leave your thoughts and comments below! Leave your questions concerning the TE position, and I’ll for sure get back to you!
