The 2026 fantasy football season is already generating buzz, especially at the tight end position where value can be found far beyond the first few rounds.
Analysts have identified a handful of players whose average draft position does not reflect their upside, making them prime targets for savvy drafters.
Mid‑Round Gems
Kyle Pitts of the Atlanta Falcons emerged as a breakout candidate after a 2025 season that saw him eclipse 800 receiving yards, and his current sixth‑round price tag positions him as a strong value pick.
Tyler Warren, the Indianapolis Colts’ second‑year standout, is being drafted in the fourth round despite a projected increase in target share that could push him into the top tier of tight ends in PPR formats.
Joshua Okonkwo of the Washington Commanders benefits from a fresh offensive coordinator and a contract that suggests a larger role, giving him breakout potential in the upcoming campaign.
Luke Kraft of the Green Bay Packers, while often overlooked, carries superstar upside and is available in the ninth or tenth rounds, representing a bargain with high ceiling.
Top Value Pick
Among all the options, Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders stands out as the top tight end value, with the talent to become a TE1 and provide the most favorable positional advantage for fantasy managers.
Late‑round selections like these can reshape a roster, allowing owners to allocate premium picks to other positions while still securing a reliable source of points at tight end.