#5: Kyle Pitts
Kyle Pitts had a fantastic rookie year! He received over 1,000 yards and 5 TDs in 16 games. Pitts has shown immense potential, especially for fantasy. The Falcons have a new regime and QB. Marcus Mariota really likes his tight ends (i.e. Delaine Walker and Darren Waller). I expect a 1100/8 floor and a 1400/12 ceiling from Pitts.
#4: Darren Waller
You would think that the addition of Davante Adams would lower Waller’s fantasy value for the Raiders, but that is incorrect. I believe that Waller will be just as productive as pre-Adams. Adams will draw many double teams leaving Waller and Hunter Renfrow in single coverage with little safety help. Waller thrives in getting down the seam quickly, so expect the Raiders to set him up frequently this season. I predict a 1200/7 floor for Waller and a 1575/14 ceiling.
#3: TJ Hockenson
TJ Hockenson broke out in a big way last year and became a Top 5 TE in almost every category. He is perfect for Detroit due to their lack of weapons outside of Jameson Williams. Apparently, Hockenson has a good relationship with Jared Goff, so that should factor into his numbers. Likely Hockenson will receive the lion’s share of targets, depending on Jameson Williams’ availability. I expect a 1100/6 floor and a 1340/13 ceiling.
#2: Travis Kelce
Kelce is definitely a Top 2 TE. He’s been my #1 for several years. However, since the trade of Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins, this has changed. Tyreek used to draw the double teams from the defense due to his insane speed, but without Hill, defenses will double Kelce instead. This extra attention will hurt Kelce’s production, but not enough for me to put him outside the top two. I expect a 1430/7 floor and a 1600/14 ceiling.
#1: George Kittle
Kittle has been the best fantasy TE when he’s healthy. Healthy Kittle is an unstoppable fantasy monster who is a menace in PPR leagues. The 49ers finally made a commitment to Trey Lance, who is a big arm and likes to air it out, perfect for a vertical threat like Kittle. With the Deebo situation unresolved, Kittle remains the number one option. His floor is kind of low with an estimate of 1250/8 but his ceiling is astronomical 1650/13.
