The tight end position in fantasy football is often the luck of the draw but can be a game-changer when you have a reliable one. As we delve into the top rookie tight ends for dynasty leagues, along with a sleeper pick, let’s analyze their stats, strengths, weaknesses, and potential player comparisons.
1. Brock Bowers (6’3, 243 lbs, 21 years old)
Bowers possesses an impressive skill set highlighted by his quick get-off at the line of scrimmage, excellent hands, and route-running ability. To top it off he did put on weight at the combine. Bowers showcases playmaking ability, ranking high in yards after catch (7th according to PFF), and missed tackles forced (2nd). While not a polished blocker, his effort is commendable. A comparison to Sam LaPorta underscores his potential impact.
2. Theo Johnson (6’6, 259 lbs, 23 years old)
Johnson’s size and athleticism make him a dream for offensive coordinators. He impressed at the combine, with a 4.57 40-yard time, 1.55 10-yard split, 39.5 Vertical Jump, and 10.5 Broad Jump.
While his raw talent is evident across the board, there’s much room for improvement in route running and blocking technique. However, his ability to stretch the seam and secure contested catches bodes well for his potential. Drawing comparisons to Jelani Woods, Johnson’s development may take time but could yield significant dividends.
3. Ja’Tavion Sanders (6’4, 245 lbs, 21 years old)
Sanders excels at stretching the seam and showcases power after the catch (7.7 YAC). While effective in contested catch situations (7 contested catches in 2023), he exhibits stiffness in his hips, impacting route precision. With potential as a blocker, he must refine his technique to become above average. Comparisons to David Njoku highlight his potential and areas for growth.
4. Cade Stover (6’4, 247 lbs, 23 years old)
Stover’s basketball background is evident in his hand-eye coordination, particularly in traffic (11th in contested catches). However, transitioning from defense, he lacks refinement in blocking and route running. Despite his rawness, he shows promise as a project with room to develop. Stover’s combine performance showcases his athleticism but underscores his need for refinement.
5. Ben Sinnott (6’4, 250 lbs, 21 years old)
Sinnott stands out for his all-around skill set, excelling as a blocker and demonstrating versatility as a receiver. While not the flashiest option, his ability to find soft spots in coverage and break tackles,(4th in missed tackles forced), after the catch is noteworthy. Comparisons to Dalton Schultz highlight his potential as a valuable asset for teams in need of a reliable tight end.
Sleeper
Jaheim Bell (6’2, 241 lbs, 22 years old)
Bell possesses athleticism (4.61 40-yard time) and ball skills, evident in his yards after catch, (8.1 YAC), and missed tackles forced (8th). Productive as a vertical threat, his versatility poses challenges in positional fit. His size limitations and inability to block make it unlikely he can ever be an inline tight end.
Bell’s athleticism offers fantasy upside, reminiscent of a Niles Paul type, but it will take the perfect situation.
In conclusion, these rookie tight ends offer a mix of potential and developmental needs. While some may make an immediate impact, others require patience and coaching to realize their full potential. For dynasty league managers, investing in these prospects could yield long-term dividends, with each player bringing unique strengths to the table.
This article was written by Dan Mader @DanMaderFF. Come join Fantasy Football Advice Network for more content discussions. Enjoy previous articles, Top 10 Dynasty WR Rookie Rankings: Emerging Stars of Tomorrow, Dynasty Rookie WR Rankings 11-20: Unveiling Hidden Gems, Dynasty RB Rookie Top 10 Rankings, and Ranking the 2024 QB Rookie NFL Draft Class.
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