The 2026 Tight End Landscape
The latest dynasty fantasy football rankings have reshaped the tight end conversation, placing Isaiah Likely in a league of his own within Tier 3.
Likely’s move to the New York Giants brings him under the tutelage of head coach John Harbaugh, a storyline that adds intrigue to his projected workload.
Over the past three seasons he has logged a 20.9% target share and averaged 9.24 yards per target, numbers that suggest a 1,000‑yard campaign is within reach in 2026.
Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy has historically devoted 29.4% of his targets to tight ends, and with star receiver Malik Nabers still rehabbing, Likely could become the early‑season focal point.
Health and Competition
Dalton Kincaid posted a career‑high 2.83 yards per route last season but has been hampered by health concerns that could limit his upside, while Greg Dulcich averaged 2.39 yards per route on 141 targets and benefits from a thin target pool in Miami.
Fantasy owners should watch these developments closely, as the convergence of scheme, health and opportunity could elevate each player into the upper echelon of tight end production.