Alright, let’s dive into Week 1 because some tight ends are about to explode, and you need to get them in your lineup ASAP. First up: Dallas Goedert. The guy was an absolute monster last season, hitting a career-high 11 touchdowns! Eleven! And what’s going on in Philly? They traded A.J. Brown, and their rookie wide receiver Makai Lemon is already nursing a hamstring injury. Seriously? That leaves DeVonta Smith and Goedert as the go-to guys, especially early in the season. He’s facing a Commanders team that gave up 12 touchdowns to tight ends the season before, tied for the second-most in the league. You really think they’re ready for this dude? No shot. Goedert’s projected 8.5 fantasy points feel like a floor, not a ceiling. Lock him in for Week 1, no question.
These New Playmakers Are Ready to Shine
Beyond Goedert, there are a couple more guys you absolutely have to consider. Kyle Pitts is projected for 9.4 points, and look, even with Cooper Rush likely stepping in as the Week 1 starter, I’m still feeling great about him. Pitts was a top fantasy tight end last season with Kirk Cousins slinging the ball. Atlanta just doesn’t have a ton of other options in the passing game after Bijan Robinson and Drake London, and their new head coach Kevin Stefanski totally uses his tight ends. Plus, Pittsburgh is a sweet matchup, giving up 11 touchdowns and the third-most points to the position last year. That’s a green light, folks.
Then there’s Isaiah Likely, coming in with an 8.0 projected score. Remember how much potential this guy always had in Baltimore but was stuck behind Mark Andrews? Well, he’s with the Giants now, and it’s a match made in heaven for fantasy managers. Second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart throws to his tight ends nearly 24 percent of the time. Dart clearly loves throwing to the position, and Likely could be his ultimate security blanket this season. He’s facing the Cowboys, who were decent against tight ends last year, but the potential volume for Likely is just too good to ignore. He’s got breakout written all over him.
The Veteran Who’s Hitting the Skids
Now, let’s talk about someone you need to steer clear of: T.J. Hockenson. The dude was once a big-time tight end in this league, but honestly, he’s just not the same player he once was. Over the last two seasons, Hockenson has only managed to score a measly three touchdowns. Three! That’s it! He’s finished outside the top 25 at the position in both of those years. His projected 6.4 points for Week 1 against Green Bay are a huge red flag. You’ve got better options. Don’t let the name fool you, this isn’t the Hockenson you remember.
As we head into this wild Week 1 slate, make sure you’re setting your lineups right. The stakes are already high, and you don’t want to miss out on these early season advantages. While we’re all laser-focused on our fantasy teams, let’s not forget the broader NFL picture. The regular season is in full swing, and things are already getting wild. Speaking of wild, remember that trending headline about “Maye, Pats blow it vs. Seahawks”? Yeah, the regular season is officially here, and our boys are already making noise. Keep your eyes peeled for what’s next!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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