Trey McBride has set the new standard for tight end contracts in the NFL, signing a four-year extension with the Arizona Cardinals worth $76 million. This deal not only makes him the highest-paid tight end in history, with an average of $19 million per year, but it also features the highest total guarantees ($43 million) and the largest fully guaranteed amount at signing ($32.5 million). McBride's extension outpaces previous records held by stars like Travis Kelce and T.J. Hockenson, significantly impacting the market for tight ends.

With McBride's remarkable performance and this lucrative deal, the Cardinals are investing heavily in their offense. The list of highest-paid tight ends has now shifted, with notable players like Travis Kelce and T.J. Hockenson now trailing behind McBride. As teams evaluate their rosters and budgets, this contract will likely influence negotiations across the league, especially for other tight ends seeking extensions or free agency opportunities.

The NFL offseason has seen significant player movement, with Sam Darnold signing a record $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks, Davante Adams joining the Los Angeles Rams on a two-year deal, and Deebo Samuel Sr. being traded to the Washington Commanders. As the offseason progresses, attention shifts to early projections for the 2025 fantasy football drafts, particularly focusing on the tight end position.

Brock Bowers, who had an exceptional rookie season with the Las Vegas Raiders, is poised to be a top pick. Trey McBride from the Arizona Cardinals also stands out following a solid performance, while George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers remains a reliable option. Sam LaPorta of the Detroit Lions experienced a resurgence that may influence his draft stock. On the other hand, Jonnu Smith could be a sneaky value pick for the Miami Dolphins, while Evan Engram faces uncertainty after moving to the Denver Broncos.

Dynasty fantasy football is akin to the stock market, where player valuations fluctuate with each piece of news. Savvy managers can capitalize on these fluctuations by selling high on certain players. Key figures highlighted for potential sell-high opportunities include Brock Bowers, Saquon Barkley, George Kittle, Bucky Irving, and Justin Herbert. Bowers, despite a record-setting rookie season, faces competition from Trey McBride.

Meanwhile, Barkley's age and injury history pose risks for dynasty managers contemplating a sell. Similarly, Kittle’s aging status suggests cashing in before his value declines, while Irving's ranking may be inflated amidst a deep running back draft class.

Herbert's production under a changing offensive scheme raises concerns about his value, making him another candidate to consider flipping. Each player presents unique considerations for managers looking to strategize effectively this offseason.

Kyle Juszczyk's return to the San Francisco 49ers on a two-year deal opens up a rare opportunity for the fullback to join the exclusive 10-Year Club, which honors players who have spent a decade with the franchise. Only 51 players have reached this milestone in the team's history, and Juszczyk would be among a very few who were not originally drafted by the team. He can potentially join tight end George Kittle in achieving this feat by 2026. A unique aspect of Juszczyk's journey is that he's one of only two players to have spent significant time with another NFL team (the Baltimore Ravens) before making a lasting mark with the 49ers. This path is extremely rare, shedding light on Juszczyk's dedication and impact on the team since joining in 2017.

Having already established himself as a Pro Bowler, Juszczyk's experience and leadership are invaluable to the 49ers, especially as they look to maintain their competitive edge in the NFL. His versatility and ability to contribute in various roles will be crucial as the 49ers aim for further success in the upcoming seasons. Additionally, with a potential longevity in mind, the implications of his return extend beyond just the immediate impact on the field; they also symbolize the franchise's respect and appreciation for players who commit to long-term dedication.

As the fantasy football offseason heats up, identifying tight ends for your best ball drafts is crucial. Top targets include Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders, who emerged as a fantasy superstar last season, finishing as TE1 with impressive stats. George Kittle of the San Francisco 49ers continues to defy age, consistently delivering top-tier performances. In the mid-rounds, Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens showed resilience, bouncing back after a rough start to his season. For late-round options, Jake Ferguson of the Dallas Cowboys and Cole Kmet of the Chicago Bears are intriguing, with Kmet poised for a rebound under new coaching. Best ball leagues reward consistency, making these players solid picks as you prepare for the season ahead.