NFL Week 9 Predictions: Projecting TEs Due for Monster Performances

While quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers usually get the most attention, in recent years the tight end has been sharing in the offensive love-fest around the league, and for good reason.

No longer just a blocker nor a last-ditch passing option, the tight end has become a go-to target for a number of quarterbacks around the league, and the stat lines reflect this. Here are three who should have a good showing in Week 9.

Jermichael Finley, Green Bay Packers (at San Diego Chargers)

Jermichael Finley's numbers slipped in Weeks 6 and 7, with a total of three catches for 33 yards and a touchdown during that span. However, he should return to his early-season form this week against the San Diego Chargers, with at least four catches for 45 to 60 yards and a score, in my estimation.

While the Chargers defense is generally better at defending the tight end than other receivers, the way Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers spreads the ball around makes Finley practically immune to that statistic.

With so many talented receivers, it will be hard for San Diego's defense to determine who will get targeted by Rodgers, which will play right into the Packers'—and Finley's—hands.

Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta Falcons (at Indianapolis Colts)

Tony Gonzalez is easily the best tight end of all time, and he's proven thus far this season that he's neither too old nor become irrelevant, as he's still a major part of the Falcons offense. With the winless Indianapolis Colts next on the schedule, he should remain a focus of Atlanta quarterback Matt Ryan's passes.

So far this season, Gonzalez has pulled down 35 passes for 380 yards and four touchdowns, and though he hasn't scored since Week 4, he's on pace to have another five receptions for at least 60 yards and a touchdown against the Colts' 32-ranked overall defense.

That defense is abysmal in most every facet, making the 6'5" Gonzalez a very attractive option for Ryan, who will likely have every chance to spread the ball around considerably to his receivers. Gonzalez is easily his most consistent, reliable target and he should have a big day this week.

Jimmy Graham, New Orleans Saints (vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Jimmy Graham was another victim of the St. Louis Rams' pass rush last week, catching just four passes for 39 yards. However, Graham is the most successful tight end of the season thus far, with 49 receptions for 713 yards, five touchdowns and four consecutive 100-plus yardage games.

This week, the Saints host the Buccaneers in a divisional matchup that certainly will have playoff implications down the line. Though the Saints were bested by the Bucs in Week 6, Graham still managed seven receptions for 124 yards.

The Saints won't likely drop this game, however, after being so embarrassingly throttled last week and already dropping a game to Tampa this season. Another 124 yards—or more—should come easily to Graham, considering Tampa's 25th-ranked offense (28th against the pass).