NFL Power Rankings Week 7: Top 30 Tight Ends
Over the years, the tight end position has gone from being a sixth blocker on the offensive line to becoming one of the most threatening positions on the field. Once viewed as big safety valves, today's tight end in the NFL displays some of the most freakish athletic ability on the field.
And with so much talk about who is the league's best quarterback, best running back, or best receiver - we can't just forget about the tight end. Take a look at the league's best tight ends and how they stack up.
* Points, production, and all other fantasy stats are based on a Yahoo Sports non-PPR league.
1.) Antonio Gates (SD)
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Gates continues to be one of the most threatening players on a football field at any given time. Standing 6'4 and weighing almost 260-pounds, Gates presents the body of a defensive lineman but the skill set of a receiver with his speed, hands, and route running. And it's always a nice reminder that Gates was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2003 after playing college basketball for Kent State.
Weekly Status: Gates suffered an injury last week against the St. Louis Rams that cut his game short. At first described as an ankle injury, the San Diego Chargers are saying that it's actually Gates' toe. But with an 85-game regular season starting streak, we can expect Gates to stay on pace with his league-leading 490 receiving yards, 82 yards per game, 27 catches for a first down, and seven touchdowns.
Fantasy Production*: So far this season, Gates has produced running back-like numbers in Fantasy Football leagues. In fact, Gates hadn't scored less than 13-points in a game all season until last week's injury. Gates is a top-fifteen player in many fantasy leagues regardless of position, already accruing 91 points through six games.
2.) Dustin Keller (NYJ)
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As New York Jets starting quarterback Mark Sanchez heats up, much thanks is due to his tight end, Dustin Keller. Tied for second in the league with five touchdowns as a tight end, Keller serves as a significant part of the Jets' passing game. With 24 receptions and 17 first downs, Keller is a reliable target for the young Sanchez and the AFC-threatening Jets.
Weekly Status: Keller had three catches for 75 yards against Denver last week but did suffer an injured wrist. Keller is scheduled to receive an MRI some time this week but is not expected to miss much time, if any at all.
Fantasy Production* : Keller has been quite the stud through six games this season. He is a top-three tight end in most fantasy leagues (64 points) and is entering a bye week, which will give him the needed time to rest up.
3.) Dallas Clark (IND)
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It's the same old thing in Indianapolis, as Clark continues to show up and do his job game-in and game-out. Clark is a great example of a hybrid player with his ability to block but also lineup effectively in the slot position and execute screen passes. This season is no different than others, as Clark serves as one of Peyton Manning's go-to guys with a league-high 37 receptions (for a tight end).
Weekly Status: Coming off a rough game against the Washington Redskins, Clark and the Colts will rest this Sunday for their bye week. Although he has less yards this year than last year through six games, Clark still has about the same number of receptions. UPDATE: Clark has been diagnosed with a wrist sprain and it does not look good...
Fantasy Production* : Without a doubt, Clark is still a top-five fantasy tight end. Going into the bye week, Clark has three touchdowns and is still on pace for a 100-reception, 1,100-yard season. And for what it's worth, you typically want to keep Peyton's receivers on your squad. However, Clark will seek a second and third opinion on his wrist sprain and things do not look good.
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4.) Zach Miller (OAK)
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Although the Oakland Raiders have struggled for the past few years, the tight end play of Zach Miller has remained superb. The quarterback carosouel in Oakland hasn't made it easy for Miller, but Miller has averaged over 10-yards a reception since his rookie season in 2007.
Weekly Status: Miller caught just two balls last week in a loss to the 49er's and he will play at Denver next week. Injuries to starting quarterback Jason Campbell could effect Miller's output but he remains the team's best receiving target.
Fantasy Production* : Miller's output has been somewhat sporadic, but this again is mainly caused by the inconsistency at quarterback for the Raiders. Miller is averaging 64-yards a game and has 23 first downs, he is the Raiders most dependable and consistent receiving threat.
5.) Chris Cooley (WAS)
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Cooley, like Dallas Clark, serves as a great example of the H-back position in the NFL. And fortunately for Cooley this season, he finally has a quarterback that loves him as one of his top targets. Donovan McNabb has used Cooley as a receiver, a tight end, a safety valve, a blocker, and everything in between. Barring injury, this could one of Cooley's most productive seasons.
Weekly Status: Cooley suffered a concussion during the first half of the Redskins' loss to the Colts last week but remained in the game through the third quarter. Cooley has said that he has had very minor symptoms thus far and there is a chance he will play Sunday at Chicago.
Fantasy Production* : As a proud owner of Cooley myself, I have been nothing but pleased with his output. Cooley has hauled in 28 receptions, is averaging 57-yards per game, and is one of McNabb's favorite targets next to Santana Moss. It might be safe to say that Cooley is well above production so far this season, but keep an eye out for his injury this week.
6.) Vernon Davis (SF)
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Other than being a freakish athlete and hometown hero for the DMV, Davis is the San Francisco 49er's leader in receiving yards this season and second in receptions behind only Frank Gore. Once known as head coach Mike Singletary's example, Davis has shown great leadership and admirable work ethic to become one of the league's best.
Weekly Status: Davis had 35-yards and a touchdown last week in the Niners' much needed win against the Oakland Raiders. Davis did injure his knee in the game but the team is calling it just a bruise.
Fantasy Production* : Ranked fourth in most leagues, Davis has an impressive 55-points through six games. His injury appears to be minor and hopefully Alex Smith can catch a groove and continue to hit Davis, who is averaging 58-yards a game and has three touchdowns.
7.) Brandon Pettigrew (DET)
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In just his second season as a pro, Pettigrew has shown tremendous potential in what's sure to be a stellar career. Although losing his starting quarterback Matthew Stafford this season, Pettigrew has continued to be a great pass-catcher and ranks amongst the top-five in receptions by a tight end.
Weekly Status: Pettigrew had seven catches last week against the Lions and racked up 61-yards. He heads into the bye week before taking on the Washington Redskins on Halloween Sunday.
Fantasy Production* : Although he isn't really the deep-threat like a Gates or Davis, Pettigrew is dependable target and huge piece of the Lions' offensive puzzle. Through six games, Pettigrew is averaging 56-points per game and has 14 first down receptions.
8.) Aaron Hernandez (NE)
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Be prepared for this kid! Hernandez has great playmaking ability as a tight end and he has the ability to stretch the field, convert first downs, and even rush the football. In a system like Bill Belichick's, Hernandez will flourish.
Weekly Status: Some were critical of the rookie Hernandez because of a few dropped balls and loss of focus, but there is no denying his talents. Hernandez is a threat every week and we all know how the Patriots love to pass.
Fantasy Production* : Hernandez ranks in amongst the top-five in receiving yards per game for a tight end but he has yet to score a touchdown. While the scoreless label may intimidate some people, Hernandez's opportunities for touchdowns will increase with the recent trade of Randy Moss and his overcoming of the rookie learning curve.
9.) Tony Gonzalez (ATL)
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He may not have the speed or deep-threat ability that we saw so much of in Kansas City, but Tony Gonzalez is still one of the best tight ends in the league and a very vital part of the Falcons' offense. Almost a lock at this point to be entered into the Hall, Gonzalez will produce until he's forced to hang 'em up.
Weekly Status: Gonzalez struggled last week against the Eagles with just 19-yards, but he was still able to haul in two touchdowns. Although not a bad thing, the redzone target may be Gonzalez's main role in 2010.
Fantasy Production* : He can go off for multiple touchdowns in any given game and his receiving totals are not hateful, as he is averaging almost 45-yards a game. Considering all else, Gonzalez is a definite starter in all leagues, ranking top-ten in points in most leagues.
10.) Benjamin Watson (CLE)
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After spending six successful seasons with the New England Patriots, Watson is off to another great start with the Cleveland Browns. Watson already has 29 catches through six games and he may quickly become an even larger target if rookie Colt McCoy continues to start at quarterback.
Weekly Status: Watson had a great game last week in a loss to Pittsburgh with six catches, 88-yards, and a touchdown. Although the Browns are struggling, Watson is steadily working on another great season.
Fantasy Production* : With the recent start by rookie quarterback Colt McCoy, Watson's numbers might actually improve. Like most rookies, McCoy will likely look to his tight end in most passing situations. Watson is averaging 53-yards per game and has 17 first downs.
11.) Jason Witten (DAL)
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Usually serving as one of the most dependable and physical tight ends in the game, Witten's performance so far this season is no different. The Cowboys are off to a surprising rough start but the offense hasn't appeared to struggle to gain yards.
Weekly Status: Witten is never a player to count out. While his team may be on the dark side of things at this point, Witten is still like the team's third receiver. Not to mention, he and quarterback Tony Romo have a great connection on and off the field.
Fantasy Production* : Although not off to as fast a start as usual, Witten's production should begin to pick up. With 23 receptions, 270 yards, and one touchdown, Witten should be getting you at least four points per week.
12.) Todd Heap (BAL)
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For the first season in the history of the franchise, the Baltimore Ravens' offense was expected to be more threatening than the team's defense. So far, the Ravens' are threatening on both sides of the ball. With more receiving targets than ever before, Todd Heap is playing well and contributing solid numbers.
Weekly Status: Heap avoided injury last week with the much-talked-about Brandon Merriweather hit and he is expected to play against Buffalo next week. Heap has hauled in 21 passes and averages almost 45-yards per game.
Fantasy Production* : Coming off of his best fantasy game of the season (10.9 points), Heap faces the struggling Buffalo Bills' defense next week. I would expect his production to remain steady but the return of Donte Stallworth may limit his big-time numbers.
13.) Brent Celek (PHI)
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It's been a little hectic in Philadelphia as head coach Andy Reid tries to settle on a starting quarterback for his Eagles. With the injury to Michael Vick, Kevin Kolb has re-earned his position and appears to be a little more comfortable without someone breathing down his neck. Brent Celek has risen to become one of the league's top tight ends and he and Kolb could develop quite the connection.
Weekly Status: Celek's receptions are down so far this season after leading the team last year. While I'd like to blame it on the passer, it seems as if Celek is actually the one having trouble catching the ball. The injury to Celek's wrist may play a role in his not-so-sure hands but the return of Kolb means good things for the fourth-year pro.
Fantasy Production* : Celek's production has been down this season in most leagues, mainly because of the inconsistency at quarterback and a possible nagging injury. Celek gets redzone looks and appears to play better with Kolb at quarterback.
14.) Jeremy Shockey (NO)
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Regardless of Jeremy Shockey being one of the most-hated tight ends in the league, he has also been one of the league's best for the last eight years. In a New Orleans Saints' offense that features Drew Brees and anyone with two hands, Shockey has unbelievable ability but serves as more of a classic tight end in the system.
Weekly Status: Shockey is coming off just a two-catch game last week and he'll likely see more success against the Cleveland Browns next week. Shockey has 25 receptions through six games and he still serves as a redzone target.
Fantasy Production* : Shockey's numbers are a little inconsistent, as he always poses a threat to "go off", but he can be a very nice upgrade for a struggling lineup or a starter who is heading into a bye week. Shockey is on pace to exceed his last year totals in receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
15.) Marcedes Lewis (JAX)
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Marcedes Lewis is on pace to have his best season as a pro, already hauling in five touchdown passes in just six games. Lewis' size (6'6) presents many mismatches against defensive backs and his speed is too much for linebackers, posing as a serious threat for the Jaguars' offense.
Weekly Status: Lewis had one of his worst games of the season in the team's loss to Tennessee on Monday Night Football, dropping passes and fumbling the ball. Not to mention, Jacksonville's starting quarterback David Garrard left the game with an injury and his status is not yet clear. With either quarterback, Lewis should turn in the best season of his career in 2010-2011.
Fantasy Production* : I would say that there's a high beta on Lewis this season. The Jaguars are not that impressive and the team may be forced to start Trent Edwards. However, Lewis is one of many large targets for the Jaguars and he's an obvious redzone target. Although not hauling in many passes (19), Lewis is great with the ball after the catch.
16.) Kellen Winslow (TB)
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Winslow finds himself as the veteran offensive weapon amongst a number of young up-and-comers. With Josh Freeman as his quarterback, Winslow should be able to complete another successful season with the Bucs.
Weekly Status: Winslow currently has 24 receptions and is averaging 51-yards per game. Winslow will look for his first touchdown of the season this Sunday when Tampa Bay hosts St. Louis.
Fantasy Production* : Although not playing lights-out in most fantasy leagues, Winslow is still a decent choice as a starter. As the Bucs grow over the course of the season, so should Winslow's stats. Currently having scored just 25 points, Winslow can rack up yards as a reliable check-down for Freeman
17.) Tony Moeaki (KC)
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Thanks to a slow start for receiver Dwayne Bowe, rookie tight end Tony Moeaki has become quarterback Matt Cassel's favorite target.
Weekly Status: Moeaki is off to a great start, averaging almost 40-yards a game and 11-yards per reception. Coming off a two-catch game last week at Houston, Moeaki should have better luck against the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday.
Fantasy Production* : Moeaki is a decent option at starter, mostly because of Cassel's newfound love for the kid. He also serves as a pretty dependable target, catching 18 passes out of 26 throws.
18.) Tony Scheffler (DET)
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Even as a second-stringer behind Brandon Pettigrew, Scheffler has posted great numbers to start the season. With Matthew Stafford closer to returning to the team, the Lions should continue to use their tight ends.
Weekly Status: With already 26 receptions on the season, Scheffler is on pace for a career-high in the category. The Detroit Lions will rest up this week with a bye.
Fantasy Production* : Starting second-stringers can always be a tough move come Sunday, but Scheffler has proven to be one of the Lions' favorable targets. In some leagues, Scheffler is owned by only six-percent of teams. Quality fill-in or last minute need.
19.) Jermaine Gresham (CIN)
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Gresham is a true bright spot in the future of the NFL. Standing 6'5 and weighing 260, Gresham is extremely athletic and has the ability to start at wide receiver. Carson Palmer has struggled as of late but Gresham will continue to terrorize opposing defenses.
Weekly Status: Gresham and the Bengals took off last week for a much-needed bye. One of the keys to Gresham's production will be the rebounding by the team's quarterback over the off-week.
Fantasy Production* : I love this guy's potential. And while it's hard to trust Palmer at this point, Gresham is still on pace for 70 receptions (a number that would break the team's rookie receiving record).
20.) John Carlson (SEA)
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With the recent trade involving Deion Branch to the New England Patriots, John Carlson will likely receive more looks from quarterback Matt Hasselbeck. While Mike Williams seems to be the team's top target, Carlson's receiving ability is undeniable.
Weekly Status: So far this season, Carlson has just 16 receptions but is averaging almost 12-yards per reception. Carlson and the Seahawks will take on Arizona this week.
Fantasy Production* : The real question is whether or not Carlson's role increases after the recent shipping of Branch. Perhaps there are better starters available in some leagues, but Carlson has potential and has already completed the bye week.
21.) Visanthe Shiancoe (MIN)
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Shiancoe began playing his best football when he came to the Minnesota Vikings, but his better football began when Brett Favre became the team's starter. Shiancoe's recent troubles since the acquisition of Randy Moss may just be a wrinkle in the offense that should soon be ironed out.
Weekly Status: Shiancoe is off to a relatively slow start, thanks to some of Favre's mishaps, but he is still considered a favorite of the veteran gun-slinger. Shiancoe is averaging almost 40-yards a game and is averaging 15-yards per reception (2nd in league for TE).
Fantasy Production* : After being a touchdown machine last season (11), Shiancoe has just one touchdown reception through five games. With the acquiring of Moss, Shiancoe's opportunities should increase.
22.) Anthony Fasano (MIA)
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Fasano is off to a great start with at least one reception in seven of his last eight games and he is averaging a team-high 13.5-yards per reception.
Weekly Status: Although hauling in just 11 passes so far this season, Fasano has big play potential. Brandon Marshall has taken the bulk of Chad Henne's passes but I don't think he's forgotten about his tight end.
Fantasy Production* : Fasano has showed consistency so far and has accrued 27 points in five games this season. Looked at mostly as a starter, Fasano is good for at least five points per game.
23.) Owen Daniels (HOU)
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In a high-powered offense such as the Houston Texans', Owen Daniels finally looks like he's about to break out again. Daniels has just 15 catches this season and no touchdowns, but he has played much better in his last two games.
Weekly Status: Daniels has played better lately and is averaging almost 13-yards per reception. The Texans are on their bye this week and Daniels will be a crucial part of the team's next game against the Colts.
Fantasy Production* : Perhaps many owners have been disappointed thus far, but Daniels will come around. In my opinion, Daniels is still a keeper.
24.) Evan Moore (CLE)
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Why not throw this guy out there? Evan Moore has been a serious threat in Cleveland's two tight end set and he happens to be one of McCoy's favorite targets.
Weekly Status: Moore has just nine receptions this season but he has made the most of them, averaging a league-high 22.4-yards per reception.
Fantasy Production* : At this point, starting Moore would be a gamble. But with one more game under his belt like the one he had last week, you can expect owners to take a risk on a McCoy/Moore connection.
25.) Bo Scaife (TEN)
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Although many talk about the Titans' defense, their offense has the ability to get hot at times too. Bo Scaife is a great safety valve and can gain effective yardage after the catch. With Vince Young at quarterback (minor injury last game), Scaife is a prime target.
Weekly Status: Scaife did not practice on Wednesday because of a groin injury but he should be able to go next week. Currently, Scaife has pulled in 17 receptions for 172-yards and two touchdowns.
Fantasy Production* : Scaife could be available in most leagues and he has almost 30 points in six games. Although there may be better options at this point, Scaife is safe.
26.) Greg Olson (CHI)
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Olson finds himself surprisingly low on this week's power rankings, mostly due to his complete ineffectiveness over the last two games. In fact, Olson has been completely shut out.
Weekly Status: Olson is averaging almost 30-yards per game but his production could increase if the Bears' offensive line could give Jay Cutler more time to throw.
Fantasy Production* : After two consecutive zero-point games, fantasy owners should wait it and out and see if the buddy connection reemerges between Cutler and Olson.
27.) Heath Miller (PIT)
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No, Heath Miller is still around. Although quiet for most of the season, Miller should see more passes (and touchdowns) with the return of Big Ben.
Weekly Status: Miller caught his first touchdown of the season last week in Big Ben's first game back off of suspension. On the season, Miller has 150-yards.
Fantasy Production* : I don't think there's any doubt that Miller will become a much larger part of the Steelers' offensive puzzle moving forward. Give him one more week to make sure he's back to form with Big Ben.
28.) Donald Lee (GB)
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Unfortunately for the Green Bay Packers, outstanding tight end Jermichael Finley has been lost for the season. Fortunately for Donald Lee, his name has been called to fill the void.
Weekly Stats: In an attack like the Packers' and the injury to Finley, Lee's numbers will certainly increase from the current 37-yards and one touchdown.
Fantasy Production* : Not a starter at this point but that could change. Consider Donald Lee the Packers' starting tight end.
29.) Daniel Fells (STL)
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In case you haven't heard, the St. Louis Rams are 3-3 and their offense isn't hateful. With rookie Sam Bradford humming the ball from the pocket, he has began to make some names out of typical pedestrians. Enter Daniel Fells.
Weekly Status: Fells has 148-yards and one touchdown so far this season and he's on pace for career-highs in every category.
Fantasy Production* : Maybe he's not Bradford's favorite target, but Fells will finish the season with decent fantasy numbers - already accruing 21 points.
Kevin Boss (NYG)
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After returning from an early season injury, Boss will begin to make his way towards the top of this list quickly.
Weekly Status: The Giants are a great offense so far this season and Kevin Boss should have an increased role as the season progresses.
Fantasy Production* : Boss was drafted as a starter in most leagues and many owners were forced to release him. Pick him up if you need a fill-in but use caution - Eli has options.
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