2024 Fantasy Football: Ranking the Top Tight Ends for Draft Day

The tight end position remains one of the trickiest in fantasy football. In 2024, the landscape is changing as younger stars emerge, while aging legends like Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs start to show signs of slowing down. With breakout candidates, consistent performers, and a generational talent entering the NFL, the tight end rankings promise plenty of debate.

Here’s a breakdown of the top tight ends for next season, along with a betting angle to keep things interesting.

---

1. Brock Bowers (Las Vegas Raiders)

Why Draft Bowers

His elite athleticism, route-running, and ability to dominate in the red zone give him the ceiling to finish as the TE1 in fantasy football.

• Projection: 75 receptions, 1,000 yards, 8 touchdowns
• Draft Range: Late 2nd to Early 3rd Round

Betting Angle

Bowers Over 4.5 Receiving Touchdowns (Rookie Year, +110): Assuming he lands in a pass-heavy offense, this is a great value bet for the dynamic rookie.

---

2. Trey McBride (Arizona Cardinals)

Why Draft McBride

McBride had a breakout second half in 2023, showcasing his ability to be a top-tier fantasy tight end. While his touchdown numbers lagged due to some bad luck, his targets and yardage proved he’s a reliable option. With Kyler Murray under center and McBride entering his third season, he’s a prime candidate to finish as a top-3 tight end.

• Projection: 85 receptions, 950 yards, 6 touchdowns
• Draft Range: Late 3rd to Early 4th Round

Betting Angle

McBride Over 5.5 Receiving Touchdowns (-115): After a frustrating 2023 in the red zone, positive regression should make McBride a scoring machine in 2024.

---

3. Sam LaPorta (Detroit Lions)

Why Draft LaPorta

LaPorta had a strong rookie campaign with the Lions, flashing elite talent in the passing game. While his targets dipped as Detroit spread the ball around, LaPorta remains a cornerstone of the Lions’ offense. Even with potential coaching changes, his versatility and connection with Jared Goff make him a high-upside pick.

• Projection: 70 receptions, 850 yards, 7 touchdowns
• Draft Range: Mid 4th Round

Betting Angle

LaPorta to Lead NFC Tight Ends in Yards (+600): With Detroit’s potent offense, LaPorta has the upside to lead his conference.

---

4. George Kittle (San Francisco 49ers)

Why Draft Kittle

Kittle remains a reliable option, though his production is more volatile than in past seasons. Playing in Kyle Shanahan’s system, Kittle has weeks where he’s unstoppable but can disappear in games dominated by Christian McCaffrey or Deebo Samuel. Age and injury history are minor concerns, but his talent keeps him in the top tier.

• Projection: 65 receptions, 800 yards, 8 touchdowns
• Draft Range: Mid 5th Round

Betting Angle

Kittle Over 6.5 Receiving Touchdowns (-110): Even in a crowded offense, Kittle is a go-to red-zone target.

---

5. Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs)

Why Draft Kelce

Kelce’s reign as the undisputed TE1 may be ending, but he’s still a top-tier option. Age has slightly diminished his explosiveness, but his connection with Patrick Mahomes keeps him relevant. Expect Kelce to slide in drafts, making him a value pick compared to years past.

• Projection: 70 receptions, 850 yards, 6 touchdowns
• Draft Range: 5th Round

Betting Angle

Kelce to Lead Chiefs in Receiving Yards (+250): Even with competition from young wideouts, Kelce could remain Mahomes’ favorite target.

---

Sleepers to Watch

1. Dalton Kincaid (Buffalo Bills): The rookie showed flashes of brilliance in 2023, and with a bigger role, he could be a top-5 tight end.
2. Evan Engram (Jacksonville Jaguars): Engram remains a focal point in Jacksonville’s offense and offers consistent TE1 value.
3. Chigoziem Okonkwo (Tennessee Titans): If Tennessee improves its quarterback play, Okonkwo could break out as a top-10 tight end.

---

Final Thoughts

The tight end position is entering a transitional phase, with young stars like Bowers, McBride, and LaPorta taking over from veterans like Kelce and Kittle. Drafting the right tight end can give you a significant edge, especially in leagues with premium scoring for the position.

For 2024, Bowers and McBride stand out as potential league-winners, while Kittle and Kelce still offer value as mid-round picks. Keep an eye on off-season developments to refine your draft strategy and lock in the best value at this crucial position.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.