As fantasy football managers fine‑tune their 2026 draft boards, the tight end position remains a fertile ground for late‑round steals. While the spotlight often falls on the elite, a handful of mid‑tier players are quietly shaping the outlook for the next season.
The Tight End Landscape
Mark Andrews finished fourth among tight ends in end‑zone targets last year and is projected to increase his touchdown tally in 2026, making him a compelling option even when selected in the later rounds.
Andrews' Touchdown Potential
His red‑zone presence should translate into more scores, especially as the Baltimore offense continues to evolve under new play‑calling concepts.
Okonkwo's Breakout Opportunity
Chig Okonkwo signed a new three‑year contract with the Commanders and is poised for a breakout season with Jayden Daniels as his QB1, giving him a clear path to target volume and red‑zone looks.
Likely's Contract and Upside
Isaiah Likely signed a three‑year, $40 million deal with the Ravens and is expected to show his full potential in 2026, turning a promising rookie campaign into a reliable starter.
Kittle's Recovery and Draft Value
George Kittle is recovering from an Achilles tear but is on track for Week 1 and is considered a good draft pick at his current price, thanks to his proven route‑running and chemistry with his quarterback.
Charbonnet as a High‑Upside Stash
Zach Charbonnet is a high‑upside stash for the 2026 season, with the potential to reclaim a meaningful role once healthy, making him an attractive speculative add in deep leagues.
Smith's WR1 Role in Philadelphia
DeVonta Smith is the clear WR1 for the Eagles and is expected to handle WR1 volume and carry the offense in 2026, positioning him as a cornerstone of the team's passing attack.
Brown, Hurts and the Supporting Cast
The presence of A.J. Brown and the continued emergence of Jalen Hurts only amplify Smith's opportunities, as the quarterback‑receiver tandem looks to sustain the offense's explosiveness.
Overall, the combination of reliable touchdown threats at tight end and a definitive top receiver in Philadelphia suggests that savvy managers can gain a competitive edge by targeting these late‑round assets.