Football

Noah Gray Poised for Breakout Role as Chiefs Prepare for 2026 Season

With Patrick Mahomes returning, the tight end could become a fantasy sleeper if Travis Kelce's production wanes.

A Quiet Contributor Emerges

Noah Gray has long been the understudy in Kansas City, but his contributions have been steady. In 2025 he was targeted 37 times and turned those looks into 21 receptions for 178 yards, though he did not find the end zone.

Looking ahead to the 2026 campaign, ESPN’s projection places Gray at 26 catches for 262 yards and a single touchdown, translating to an estimated 60.56 fantasy points. The numbers suggest a modest increase in production that could make him more attractive in deeper leagues.

Fantasy Outlook

Patrick Mahomes is set to resume play after a knee injury, and his need for a reliable safety valve could open opportunities for Gray, especially if Travis Kelce's workload diminishes. If Kelce slows or misses time, Gray’s role could expand, making him a sleeper pick in drafts.

Analysts see Gray as a low‑risk, high‑reward option, particularly in leagues that reward yardage and touchdowns from the tight end position. His trajectory will depend on how the Chiefs’ offense evolves, but the early indicators are promising.

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