As the NFL offseason heats up, teams will soon be able to engage in negotiations with unrestricted free agents starting Monday, leading to the official new league year commencement on Wednesday. Key headlines will center around quarterbacks and wide receivers, but tight ends are also making noise in the free agency market. The Cincinnati Bengals have already secured Mike Gesicki with a three-year deal, but several other tight ends will be available, prompting a look at potential fits and their market value.

Among the notable free agents, Evan Engram, recently released by the Jaguars, stands out as a two-time Pro Bowler with a high catch potential. His production could significantly boost a contending team’s roster. Zach Ertz, now with the Washington Commanders, has shown he can still produce effectively as a veteran leader. Juwan Johnson and Tyler Conklin also represent intriguing options, with Johnson showing flashes of potential in a tough Saints season. The market is ripe for tight ends, and teams should strategize to make impactful signings.

The Washington Commanders are prioritizing the re-signing of tight end Zach Ertz as they possess ample cap space. This mutual desire signals a significant move for the team, as NBC Sports insider Matthew Berry predicts that a deal will take shape. Ertz, 34, had an impressive season with 66 receptions, 654 yards, and seven touchdowns, showcasing a resurgence reminiscent of his peak days. The prospect of Ertz returning alongside talents like Terry McLaurin and new acquisition Deebo Samuel positions the Commanders as potential contenders for the NFC Championship and beyond.

The fantasy football landscape is ripe for emerging tight ends, and several players are poised to leap into TE1 status for the upcoming season.

Isaiah Likely of the Baltimore Ravens has shown potential, backed by impressive performances, including a standout game with nine receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown. With Mark Andrews’ declining output, Likely could see increased targets, especially if Andrews is traded or cut, making him a sleeper TE1 candidate.

Chig Okonkwo of the Tennessee Titans also made waves with his late-season surge, scoring double-digit PPR points in crucial playoff weeks. His emergence as a reliable second option in the passing game suggests he could thrive further, especially if the Titans bolster their roster.

Lastly, Tyler Warren, a 2025 draft prospect who showcased remarkable stats at Penn State, could become a noteworthy fantasy asset depending on his landing spot. His elite skills could see him become a significant contributor in the NFL, particularly if drafted by a team with a need for a dynamic tight end.

Dynasty fantasy football continues to rise in popularity, with players searching for undervalued talent to dominate their leagues. Notable undervalued players across the NFC are highlighted, including the Dallas Cowboys' Rico Dowdle, who showed promise last season, and the New York Giants' Tyrone Tracy Jr., who surprisingly finished strong despite a poor offensive setup. The Philadelphia Eagles' DeVonta Smith is suggested as a sleeper among the star-studded roster, while the Washington Commanders' Zach Ertz is poised for a comeback. In the NFC North, the Chicago Bears' Cole Kmet is expected to rebound, and Detroit's David Montgomery is touted as a solid pick. The NFC South has rookies like Michael Penix Jr. gaining attention and the NFC West features exciting prospects like Zach Charbonnet.