In an unprecedented turn of events in the 2024 NFL season, tight ends defied expectations, with rookies and underperformers rising to the challenge. Brock Bowers, a standout rookie with the Las Vegas Raiders, emerged as the top tight end (TE1), showcasing versatility and reliability. Meanwhile, Jonnu Smith of the Miami Dolphins delivered a career-best season, finishing as TE4. Zach Ertz, now with the Washington Commanders, demonstrated he still has gas left in the tank, bouncing back from injury to post impressive stats. Tucker Kraft of the Green Bay Packers made noise despite fierce competition, while Cade Otton from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers showed flashes of promise. Lastly, Mike Gesicki reinvented himself with the Cincinnati Bengals, proving doubters wrong. This year's tight end landscape was anything but predictable.

The NFL offseason is heating up as teams prepare for the upcoming free agent negotiating period starting March 10, followed by the official start of the new league year on March 12. This year’s free agency headlines promise to be dominated by intriguing quarterbacks and wide receivers, but fantasy enthusiasts should also keep an eye on tight ends ready to hit the market. Veterans like Austin Hooper, Tyler Conklin, and Zach Ertz are among notable names whose performances last season have positioned them well for lucrative contracts.

Hooper, for example, displayed consistent production with the New England Patriots, catching 45 passes for 476 yards and three touchdowns, signaling he could become a reliable No. 2 tight end in a more explosive offense. Conklin and Ertz also had productive seasons, with both players likely to attract interest from teams looking to bolster their tight end depth. The upcoming free agency period may drastically reshape fantasy rosters, especially in leagues that emphasize tight end performance.

Jameis Winston is poised to be a significant asset in the upcoming NFL season, recognized as a top-tier bridge quarterback despite a tumultuous past. His 74.6 PFF grade in 2024 underscores a potential for success in teams needing a temporary solution at quarterback. Meanwhile, J.K. Dobbins is looking to capitalize on increased playing time, showcasing promise with 4.5 yards per carry, provided he can stay healthy.

On the receiving end, Darius Slayton remains a consistent presence for the Giants, proving he can still deliver as a WR2 or WR3. Meanwhile, Mike Gesicki, though limited in run blocking, has thrived in the passing game, achieving a notable PFF receiving grade. Offensive tackle Alaric Jackson and guard Will Hernandez are also highlighted for their impressive performances, showcasing the depth of this free agent class.

The NFL offseason is heating up with key free agents that could reshape teams. Aaron Jones, a standout running back for the Minnesota Vikings, has a proven track record with a PFF rushing grade above 76.5, making him an attractive option for the Raiders, who are seeking stability in their backfield.

Meanwhile, tight ends like Juwan Johnson and Mike Gesicki are also expected to draw interest. Johnson, coming off a career-high PFF receiving grade, could be a valuable asset for the Colts and Anthony Richardson's development. Gesicki has rebounded nicely and may fit well with a team like the Broncos, looking to bolster their aerial attack.

The 2025 NFL Draft season is also upon us, with tools like the PFF Mock Draft Simulator available for fans and bettors to explore top prospects. Teams like the Steelers and Chargers are eyeing running backs like Najee Harris and J.K. Dobbins to fill gaps left by injuries. Harris’s durability and experience could be crucial for the Chargers, while Dobbins aims to prove he can stay healthy for the Vikings.