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.

George Kittle is the top tight end in the league, with a PFF receiving grade of 92.4 and a run-blocking grade of 70.8, showcasing his well-rounded skills. Trey McBride followed him closely, catching 111 passes for 1,146 yards but struggled with touchdowns, only scoring once through the air until Week 17. Brock Bowers of the Raiders had an impressive rookie season, setting a rookie tight end record with 1,194 receiving yards.

Mark Andrews rebounded from a slow start to lead in red-zone touchdowns, while Jonnu Smith found success in Miami, achieving personal bests across multiple categories. Austin Hooper remained a reliable option for the Patriots, while Isaiah Likely made the Ravens' tight end duo formidable. T.J. Hockenson and Sam LaPorta rounded out the top performances, both showing steady production despite injuries and team dynamics.

The New England Patriots are focused on enhancing their roster, particularly by improving the support for quarterback Drake Maye. A primary target for the offseason is a wide receiver, but they may also benefit from adding a tight end. Currently, Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper have been steady for the team, yet with Hooper approaching free agency, the Patriots might want to secure a capable replacement.

One intriguing option is Zach Ertz, who experienced a resurgence with the Washington Commanders this past season, posting 66 receptions for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. Although he brings experience and could mentor Maye, his age (34) raises concerns about his long-term viability. The Patriots might consider utilizing the NFL Draft to find a younger tight end instead of pursuing an older veteran.

The New England Patriots are gearing up for a significant offseason, entering with considerable cap space, which positions them as major players in the upcoming free agency. One of the pivotal decisions they face involves tight end Austin Hooper, who contributed significantly alongside Hunter Henry during the last season. Hooper recorded 45 receptions, 476 yards, and three touchdowns, showing his value for rookie quarterback Drake Maye.

Should Hooper depart via free agency, speculation suggests the Patriots may target Zach Ertz of the Washington Commanders as a replacement. Ertz had a standout season, boasting 66 receptions for 654 yards and seven touchdowns, proving he still possesses the ability to be a top contributor at the age of 34. With ample cap space, the Patriots could entice Ertz with an offer he can't refuse, potentially solidifying their offensive capabilities as they look to enhance their support around Maye.

The Chicago Bears face significant challenges in their tight end department, highlighted by their 512 combined receiving yards in 2024, ranking them fifth lowest in the league. With a rookie quarterback at the helm and a coaching staff seemingly disinterested in utilizing the tight end position, the Bears must confront the reality of their shortcomings. Cole Kmet, Gerald Everett, and Marcedes Lewis have underperformed, prompting a search for potential upgrades.

Options include veterans like Zach Ertz, who had 66 receptions and seven touchdowns with the Washington Commanders. His rapport with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels raises questions about whether Bears GM Ryan Poles will invest in a seasoned tight end. Mike Gesicki from the Cincinnati Bengals and Austin Hooper from the New England Patriots are also viable options, each having demonstrated productive seasons. However, the tight end class in the upcoming draft appears thin, with only a couple of potential first-round talents.