Ranking the best TEs and sleeper values in free agency

The franchise tag limited the tight end market a year ago, but that didn’t happen again in 2021. Indeed, arguably the top free agent at the position last offseason will finally reach the open market on March 17. At the same time, the drop-off after the No. 1 tight end appears considerable.

Top 3

Hunter Henry

The Los Angeles Chargers decided not to franchise Henry for a second straight year, allowing the veteran tight end to reach the open market. Henry might never match Travis Kelce or George Kittle in receiving production, but he still contributes well in that department, averaging approximately 58 catches for 633 receiving yards and five touchdowns over the past two seasons. Henry also rates as one of the NFL’s most reliable blocking tight ends, giving him added utility in the growing number of wide-zone, play-action-focused offenses around the league.

Jonnu Smith

While not as consistent as Henry, Smith has demonstrated solid receiving skills over the past two seasons while playing in Arthur Smith’s offense. That scheme has become increasingly popular, and several teams in need of a tight end will have little trouble projecting Smith into their offenses.

Robert Tonyan

Tonyan’s production in 2020 provides plenty of reasons for optimism as well as concern. His 11 touchdowns led all tight ends and his 52 catches for 586 yards ranks well at the position. However, the vast majority of his scores came near the goal line and his catch rate (88.1%) appears highly unsustainable. In all likelihood, Tonyan’s rate metrics will regress to the mean in 2021. The Green Bay Packers and any other team interested in Tonyan’s services will have to determine how much regression to expect. Tonyan’s status as a restricted free agent further complicates his market.

Sleepers

Gerald Everett

Serving primarily in a backup role during his four seasons with the Los Angeles Rams, Everett has provided decent production and solid all-around play. Some team could view Everett as capable of handling an expanded role. In the right circumstances, he could become a solidly second-tier tight end.

Full list of free-agent tight ends