As the 2025 NFL season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts, particularly focusing on tight ends. With players like Brock Bowers expected to build upon impressive rookie seasons, the competition for fantasy points among tight ends is heating up. This article delves into the current rankings, projecting players’ potential based on their performance, coaching changes, and team dynamics.
Brock Bowers: Aiming Higher in Las Vegas
After a standout rookie year, Brock Bowers is poised to enhance his performance with the Las Vegas Raiders. Bowers led all tight ends in both receptions and receiving yards during his inaugural season, accumulating the highest fantasy points. With a new quarterback and offensive play-caller in place, expectations are high for Bowers. His 88.4 receiving grade ranked third among tight ends, just behind stars George Kittle and Trey McBride. However, the Raiders’ history of employing tight end committees raises questions about Bowers’ snap count this season, especially with stronger run-blocking tight ends on the roster.
Emerging Talent: Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland
Rookies Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland are set to make their mark, following in the footsteps of Bowers and Sam LaPorta. Both players are garnering attention as potential elite fantasy options. With the right opportunities, they could significantly impact their teams and fantasy rosters.
Veteran Presence: Trey McBride and George Kittle
Trey McBride of the Arizona Cardinals has emerged as a top fantasy tight end since becoming a starter mid-season in 2023. Averaging over 15 PPR points per game, he led the league in receptions per game with 6.9. As the Cardinals maintain a stable coaching staff, continuity should benefit McBride, who is likely to see an increase in touchdowns after a modest tally last season.
In contrast, George Kittle, representing the San Francisco 49ers, has consistently been one of the league’s premier tight ends. His unparalleled run-blocking and impressive per-play statistics have kept him relevant in fantasy discussions. Despite a run-first strategy limiting his route opportunities, Kittle’s synergy with quarterback Brock Purdy has resulted in significant downfield plays. However, concerns about his age and injury history may affect his target share this season.
Injury Comeback: T.J. Hockenson’s Recovery
T.J. Hockenson, now with the Minnesota Vikings, faces a pivotal season after recovering from an ACL and MCL tear sustained at the end of 2023. Despite returning quickly from injury, his performance was understandably impacted. As he enters the 2025 season more removed from injury, Hockenson aims to reclaim his status as a top fantasy tight end. While he excels at contested catches, his overall target share may not match previous years.
With the draft season underway, these tight ends are among those to watch closely. As fantasy players finalize their strategies, understanding the dynamics of each player’s situation could be the key to success in the upcoming season. For further insights, a subscription to PFF+ offers comprehensive player grades and fantasy football rankings, providing tools to enhance draft-day decisions.
