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Fantasy football tight end analysis
Quick Jump: Player Analysis
Antonio Gates, TE, San Diego Chargers
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Antonio Gates | San Diego Chargers | 6-foot-4, 260 pounds | 8th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 72 | 82 | 1009 | 1109 | 9 | 11 |
Pros: Playing through injuries, Gates hasn't missed a regular-season game since 2005. He has caught at least 60 passes in every season as the full-time starter (2004), averaging 75.8 per year as, and Gates has consistently found the end zone in this time (9.5 per year). Philips Rivers provides Gates stable play at the quarterback position, as the latter offers the former a great downfield and jump-ball target. If wide receiver Vincent Jackson indeed holds out into the regular season, beyond his three-game suspension, Gates will be the clear-cut primary target in the offense. He caught at least four passes in 12 games in '09. Gates is in the final year of his contract, too.
Cons: Gates (foot) is currently battling a plantar fasciitis injury, although he says it isn't serious. It is unknown if he'll be ready for training camp. Gates scored four of his eight touchdowns last year in just two games and went on a six-game scoring drought.
Fantasy tip: As long as his foot holds up throughout training camp, Gates should be your top target at the position. He is going, on average, in the late fourth round. Some owners prefer Indianapolis Colts tight end Dallas Clark, but Gates has less downside.
Dallas Clark, TE, Indianapolis Colts
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Dallas Clark | Indianapolis Colts | 6-foot-3, 252 pounds | 8th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 82 | 92 | 862 | 962 | 7 | 9 |
Pros: Clark looks to repeat what was easily his most prolific season, in which he caught 100 passes for 1,106 yards and scored 10 times. The 2009 season also marked the first in which Clark played in all 16 games in his entire career. Quarterback Peyton Manning and Clark clearly are on the same page, and the Colts' offense is built for slingin' the ball. Clark caught at least four passes in 13 games last year and is always a deep threat.
Cons: Being one of many, many options in the passing game had helped keep Clark's numbers at a reasonable level prior to 2009. The return of Anthony Gonzalez (knee), as well as the emergence of wideouts Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, should mean fewer targets for Clark. Injuries are a big concern with seven straight seasons of at least one missed game.
Fantasy tip: Draft Clark as your No. 1 tight end as early as the fourth round. On average, he is going in the early fifth, which is a reasonable placement. Expect his numbers to come down and be somewhere between his 2008 (77-848-6) season and '09 (100-1106-10) production.
Vernon Davis, TE, San Francisco 49ers
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Vernon Davis | San Francisco 49ers | 6-foot-3, 250 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 59 | 69 | 847 | 947 | 7 | 9 |
Pros: Davis garnered the third most targets among NFL tight ends last season. In his breakout campaign, the athletic pass catcher showed chemistry with quarterback Alex D. Smith. Davis erupted for career highs in receptions (78), yardage (965) and receiving touchdowns (13). He is entering a contract year, and San Francisco's offense doesn't have a lot of weapons in the passing game. The Niners upgraded their offensive line through the draft, so he probably won't have to block as much.
Cons: While his athletic prowess was never in question, Davis' monstrous jump in production last year raises eyebrows. San Francisco is a run-first team, and if their defense is as good as we expect, Davis probably won't be called on as much in the passing game. He dealt with injury problems before the 2008 season. Davis caught three or fewer passes in seven contests last year.
Fantasy tip: Consider Davis a risky pick, but he goes in the fifth round, on average. Don't count on 13 touchdowns again, but Davis should have a fine season. He is, if anything, slightly overvalued.
Kellen Winslow, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Kellen Winslow | Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 6-foot-4, 240 pounds | 7th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 68 | 78 | 796 | 896 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: Entering his second year with the Buccaneers, Winslow looks to capitalize on a strong first year with the club. He caught 77 passes for 884 yards and scored five times in 16 games. Having played a full slate of games in three of his last four seasons, Winslow may be more dependable than his reputation suggests. He has come back effectively from surgeries in the past. Quarterback Josh Freeman is still quite raw and will continue to rely on Winslow, easily the team's most proven receiving target.
Cons: Winslow is coming off another knee surgery, his sixth, which was a believed cleanup of scar tissue. Tampa Bay's offense in general may be a bigger concern. Winslow failed to score in eight straight games (10 of 11) to close out the 2009 season, despite seeing consistent targets. The Buccaneers want to be a run-first team, assuming their defense will allow it.
Fantasy tip: With an average draft position of the early 10th round, Winslow is undervalued. It is likely a combination of his offseason surgery, reputation and a very deep tight end position that has scared off fantasy owners. As long as he remains on the field, Winslow is as dangerous as they come. Confidently draft him as your No. 1 after the bigger names come off the board, but you should look to back him up in deep leagues.
Tony Gonzalez, TE, Atlanta Falcons
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Tony Gonzalez | Atlanta Falcons | 6-foot-5, 243 pounds | 14th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 68 | 78 | 725 | 825 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: The long-time NFL star enters Year 2 with the Falcons. His first season was quite respectable (83-867-6). All things considered, primarily playing with quarterback Matt Ryan (toe) at less than 100 percent for a good portion of the season (missed two games), Gonzo had a pretty good year. He caught at least four passes in 12 different games in '09 and has caught 71 or more passes in seven straight years. Gonzalez has missed two games in his 13 NFL seasons.
Cons: Wide receiver Roddy White is the No. 1 target for Ryan, and the Falcons remain a run-first squad. Gonzalez is 34 years old with a lot of mileage on his body. He's coming off his lowest yardage total since 2002 (773) and set a career low in average yards per reception (10.4). Atlanta's offensive line isn't overwhelming, and Gonzalez probably blocks a little more than fantasy owners care for.
Fantasy tip: Fantasy owners are spending a sixth-round selection, on average, to acquire Gonzo. He is being chosen as the sixth tight end off the board, per his ADP figures. There is little upside with Gonzalez at this stage of his career, but he should be a very solid contributor as a midrange No. 1.
Jason Witten, TE, Dallas Cowboys
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Jason Witten | Dallas Cowboys | 6-foot-5, 263 pounds | 8th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 81 | 91 | 929 | 1029 | 6 | 8 |
Pros: The former Tennessee Volunteer's seventh season with the Cowboys was another fine showing. He logged 94 catches for 1,030 yards, marking the second time in three years that he has eclipsed 90 receptions and 1,000 yards. Dallas' high-powered passing game, led by quarterback Tony Romo, allows for plenty of targets (fifth most among tight ends in '09). The Cowboys are looking to involve Witten more in the red zone.
Cons: Scoring touchdowns has never come easy for Witten. He notched only two last year and has six total scores in his past 32 games, compared to seven in 2007 alone. A full season of Miles Austin as the No. 1 receiver should cut into Witten's looks, and the Cowboys added wide receiver Dez Bryant in the first round of this year's draft.
Fantasy tip: In point-per-reception affairs, Witten's value is at its peak. His lack of touchdowns works against him even more in standard formats. He's a quality No. 1 fantasy tight end and is appropriately drafted in the early sixth round, per his ADP. In PPR leagues, that jumps to the mid-fifth stanza, on average.
Jermichael Finley, TE, Green Bay Packers
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Jermichael Finley | Green Bay Packers | 6-foot-5, 247 pounds | 3rd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 61 | 71 | 776 | 876 | 5 | 7 |
Pros: In 13 games last year (10 starts), Finley broke out to the tune of 55 catches for 676 yards and five touchdowns. He is an athletic, downfield threat in a pass-friendly offense; quarterback Aaron Rodgers can rely on Finley's soft hands. From Week 11 on, the former Texas Longhorn was a fantasy force. He caught at least three passes in his final seven games, highlighted by a 79-yard, two-TD performance in Week 13. He scored 80 percent of his touchdowns in this seven-game stretch. Finley also lit up the Arizona Cardinals in Green Bay's playoff loss (six for 159 yards). He will participate in Larry Fitzgerald's offseason camp in July, which worked wonders for Minnesota Vikings wideout Sidney Rice last year.
Cons: Speaking of pass-friendly, the Packers have a lot of weapons, and Finley checks in as, at best, No. 3 in the pecking order. He is recovering from a sprained knee and probably won't be 100 percent until training camp. What fans don't see, however, is Finley's perpetual tardiness for team meetings and curfew. This could come back to haunt him.
Fantasy tip: Green Bay probably won't utilize the tight end enough to make Finley that elite fantasy weapon some owners envision him to be. We've seen him go as early as the first tight end off the board, and his average draft placement of the early sixth round is a bit too optimistic. In point-per-reception leagues, opt for someone that will touch the ball more than 65 times. Finley should have a fine year, but you shouldn't overvalue him like so many fantasy owners have done this draft season.
Visanthe Shiancoe, TE, Minnesota Vikings
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Visanthe Shiancoe | Minnesota Vikings | 6-foot-4, 250 pounds | 8th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 50 | 60 | 592 | 692 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: A late bloomer, Shiancoe has come into his own the past two seasons. He hasn't missed a game in his career, and after toiling away with the New York Giants from 2003 to 2006, the Vikings have figured out how to utilize the Birmingham, England native. Quarterback Brett Favre is expected to return to the Vikings this season; he and Shiancoe connected 11 times for touchdowns in '09. In the past two years, the Morgan State product has scored 18 times and has become an integral part of the Vikes' passing game.
Cons: Shiancoe probably will not catch more than his 56 receptions of a year ago in this offense, because of so many other weapons. The Vikings' passing game should slow down a tad, even if Favre returns, and they remain a team that likes to utilize the run. Right tackle Phil Loadholt is still developing and occasionally needs Shiancoe's help blocking. In nine games last year, Shiancoe caught fewer than four passes. In as many games, he failed to top 30 receiving yards, too.
Fantasy tip: Production-wise, expect something in between his 2008 season (42-596-7) and last year (56-566-11). He is being drafted as a low-end No. 1 tight end in the ninth round, on average. We may have seen Shiancoe's ceiling last year, but he is a nice consolation pick after the elite names are off the board.
Owen Daniels, TE, Houston Texans
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Owen Daniels | Houston Texans | 6-foot-3, 250 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 63 | 73 | 799 | 899 | 5 | 7 |
Pros: This former Wisconsin Badger was on his way to a career year before a torn knee ligament cut his season in half. Daniels, through eight games, was on pace for 80 receptions for 1,038 yards and 10 touchdowns. His previous best (70-862-2) in 2008 followed a breakout effort (63-768-3) the year before. Quarterback Matt Schaub has a lot of trust in Daniels, and the Texans haven't had any receiver truly step up opposite Andre Johnson. If Houston's defense doesn't improve and their running game remains a question mark, Daniels, if healthy, should be in for another big year.
Cons: It wasn't so much that Daniels tore his anterior cruciate ligament but that it was the third time between both knees this has happened. Wide receiver Jacoby Jones has been pushing hard this offseason for the No. 2 role, which could spell fewer touches for Daniels. Prior to last year, Daniels never had much success finding the end zone.
Fantasy tip: With injury being the primary concern here, Daniels is a risk-reward selection. He should rebound just fine, as he has done twice before, but how much overall quickness will he lose? Expect a lower per-reception average in 2010, but the looks should remain steady. Daniels is appropriately being drafted in the early eighth round. In deep leagues, look to snag a second tight end if you opt for him.
Zach Miller, TE, Oakland Raiders
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Zach Miller | Oakland Raiders | 6-foot-5, 255 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 54 | 64 | 711 | 811 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: Miller notched the best stats of his career in 2009 by catching 66 passes for 805 yards and three touchdowns, including an 86-yarder. He is a big-play tight end, and Oakland's receiving corps is so weak we could see another year of Miller leading the team. Quarterback Jason Campbell comes to town from the Washington Redskins, and the veteran passer is adept at utilizing Miller's position. More consistency on offense should mean more scoring opportunities.
Cons: Inconsistency, largely due to subpar quarterback play and a lack of talent around him, plagued Miller last year. He caught three of fewer passes in five games and was completely shut out in one. Not having much luck finding the end zone, Miller's three touchdown receptions in '09 tied a career best. Should Oakland's receiving corps come to life this year, Miller's looks could go down. Of course, he still has to build chemistry with Campbell.
Fantasy tip: Last year, we expected a breakout year from Miller with what we thought would have been an improving JaMarcus Russell. We were wrong. However, this year, with Campbell in town, Miller looks like a good bet as your No. 1. All he needs to do is score more TDs to become a true breakout player. Miller is drafted, on average, at the turn of the ninth and 10th rounds.
Brent Celek, TE, Philadelphia Eagles
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Brent Celek | Philadelphia Eagles | 6-foot-4, 255 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 51 | 61 | 633 | 733 | 5 | 7 |
Pros: One of KFFL's 2009 sleepers, Celek held true to our projections and broke out in a big way. He finished with 76 catches for 971 yards and scored eight times - all career highs. The Eagles' offense calls on the tight end position often, and first-year starting quarterback Kevin Kolb should rely on Celek as the passer develops. In Kolb's two starts last season, the pair connected 16 times for 208 yards and one score.
Cons: Even though Kolb and Celek had chemistry in two games last year, that doesn't necessarily mean they will have success over a full season. The Eagles have several promising wide receivers in their passing game, and running back LeSean McCoy is a strong receiver, as well. Celek caught four or fewer passes in 10 games.
Fantasy tip: Celek is drafted, on average, in the sixth round. This is a fair placement, but realize you are taking on a mild risk. He should have a fine season again and is a midrange No. 1 tight end in all formats.
Chris Cooley, TE, Washington Redskins
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Chris Cooley | Washington Redskins | 6-foot-3, 250 pounds | 7th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 63 | 73 | 718 | 818 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: The entertaining tight end's 2009 season was cut short at only seven games after an ankle injury landed him on Injured Reserve. The 'Skins underwent a coaching change this offseason, bringing in head coach Mike Shanahan, whose system is tight end-friendly. In 2008, Cooley hauled in a personal-best 83 passes for 849 yards, but he scored an uncharacteristically low one time. He is being flexed out wide in practice, and the coaching staff expects him to have a large role. Cooley appears to be 100 percent healthy. Oh, and the Redskins acquired some guy named Donovan McNabb to quarterback the team this year.
Cons: Cooley has scored just four times in his last 28 games, which is a bit alarming. He will need to build a rapport with McNabb, and the 'Skins are going to be a run-first ball club. Tight end Fred Davis emerged with Cooley out last year, and Davis should steal a moderate amount of looks from Cooley.
Fantasy tip: Cooley has shown that he can get it done as a No. 1 fantasy tight end. The change in offense, new quarterback and presence of Davis all make Cooley a risky pick. He has upside as a low-end No. 1 and is appropriately drafted in the 10th round, on average.
John Carlson, TE, Seattle Seahawks
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John Carlson | Seattle Seahawks | 6-foot-5, 251 pounds | 3rd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
 |
Pros: Seattle's new offense under head coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates is expected to feature Carlson as one of the focal points. He won't be called on to stay in as much with blocking tight ends Anthony McCoy and Chris Baker around. Carlson will often be used in the slot in Bates' two tight end-heavy offense. Blocking too much was one reason Carlson failed to improve much from his rookie campaign to last year. He's a great red zone target (12 TDs the last two years), and Seattle lacks many other receiving threats.
Cons: If this offensive line breaks down again, they might have to keep Carlson in to block, or else sit him down and utilize McCoy and Baker more often. Bates learned Denver's offense under head coach Mike Shanahan; Shannon Sharpe is the only tight end to really stand out in that offense. Carlson caught more than three passes in a game only five times last year, and three of them came in the first four weeks.
Fantasy tip: Carlson isn't drafted in most leagues. He's going, on average, at the start of the 17th round, which makes him quite undervalued. There is some sleeper potential, and he's worth a late-round flier after the top-tier tight ends come off the board.
Dustin Keller, TE, New York Jets
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Dustin Keller | New York Jets | 6-foot-2, 248 pounds | 3rd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 61 | 71 | 730 | 830 | 3 | 5 |
 |
Pros: Keller flashed potential in the '09 postseason with 12 receptions for 181 yards and a score in all three games. He's a '08 first-rounder drafted for his receiving skills. New York plans on opening up their offense more in Mark Sanchez's second year. That expansion involves adding in new wrinkles to their offense to exploit Keller's talents.
Cons: Now matter how much they expand the passing game, this offense is still based around the run. They added Santonio Holmes to their stable of receiving corps; once he returns from his four-game suspension, he's another receiver to take looks away from Keller. Conceivably, Keller could be No. 4 on the pecking order behind Holmes, Braylon Edwards and Jerricho Cotchery.
Fantasy tip: Keller is going, on average, in the 14th round of most drafts. That's not a bad place to get him if you hold off drafting your No. 1 tight end. There's definite sleeper potential here, but be prepared for some inconsistency given the other options and the nature of this offense.
Heath Miller, TE, Pittsburgh Steelers
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Heath Miller | Pittsburgh Steelers | 6-foot-5, 256 pounds | 6th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 55 | 65 | 621 | 721 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: Uncertainty at wide receiver should push Miller up the pecking order for looks, or at least solidify his spot on the list. The vet finished last year with 76 receptions for 789 yards - both career highs. He also scored six touchdowns and has at least five in four of his five seasons. Quarterback Byron Leftwich has one of the NFL's slowest releases; Miller could be a favorite target so Leftwich can get the ball out before the defense closes.
Cons: This offense could stagnate with Leftwich under center; they might lean heavily on the run. There isn't much chemistry between Miller and his quarterback, at least until Ben Roethlisberger returns from his suspension. Offensive tackle Willie Colon (Achilles') will miss the entire season because of a ruptured Achilles' tendon; Miller could be called on to block more with Colon out.
Fantasy tip: Fantasy owners aren't taking Miller until the 18th round, on average. Don't let him slip that far. He makes for a fine selection as a No. 2 tight end, or even as a No. 1, if you prefer holding off. He's further evidence of the depth at this position.
Greg Olsen, TE, Chicago Bears
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Greg Olsen | Chicago Bears | 6-foot-5, 255 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 48 | 58 | 655 | 755 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: He's the most talented pass-catching tight end in Chicago's offense, and the Bears could be throwing the ball a lot more with Mike Martz leading this offense. Olsen is coming off his most productive season, catching 60 passes for 612 yards and eight touchdowns, which continued an upward trend.
Cons: Martz's offense has rarely featured this position even when given talented receiving options (the San Francisco 49ers' Vernon Davis is one example). The new offensive coordinator has come out and said Olsen needs to improve his blocking before being given a consistent receiving role. Chicago has 12-year vet Desmond Clark on the roster; he is a far superior blocker to Olsen.
Fantasy tip: Fantasy owners are taking Olsen in the 13th round, on average, as a borderline No. 1 tight end. Possibly he's a decent No. 2, if you are forced to roster two at this position, when you can play him for the matchups. However, you're probably best left leaving him for someone else given the history of this position in Martz's offense.
Kevin Boss, TE, New York Giants
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Kevin Boss | New York Giants | 6-foot-6, 253 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 58 | 68 | 643 | 743 | 5 | 7 |
Pros: Boss has steadily progressed since entering the league in '07. He set career highs across the board last year with 42 receptions for 567 yards (13.5 yards per reception). He also scored five times, and his massive frame makes him a great red zone target.
Cons: Other options in this offense are emerging (Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham), and New York's offense could trend more to the run, unlike last year when they relied on the pass with running backs Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw hurt. Boss underwent offseason knee surgery, too. Four of his five touchdowns last year game in a three-game stretch, and he finished with more than 62 yards in a game only three times.
Fantasy tip: Boss is being drafted as the 25th tight end off the board, usually in the 18th round. He doesn't offer much upside and is probably best left on the waiver wire to be used as a one-week play once the season is underway.
Todd Heap, TE, Baltimore Ravens
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Todd Heap | Baltimore Ravens | 6-foot-5, 245 pounds | 10th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 28 | 38 | 330 | 430 | 1 | 3 |
 |
Pros: He has stayed healthy the last two years, playing in all 16 games each year. Last year, he enjoyed his finest season since '06 with 53 receptions for 593 yards and six touchdowns. Baltimore might utilize more two-tight end sets, which could free up Heap to be a receiver rather than staying in to block.
Cons: Heap turned 30 in March; the Ravens drafted Ed Dickson, who's a solid pass-catch and blocker, as well as Dennis Pitta. One of the two is likely the future at the position for Baltimore. The Ravens added Donte' Stallworth and Anquan Boldin - both could steal looks from Heap, who is already behind Derrick Mason and Ray Rice on the chart for looks.
Fantasy tip: On average, Heap is going in the 16th round of fantasy drafts. He's a borderline No. 2 tight end; you'd probably be best leaving him for the waiver wire and using him as a weekly play when the matchup is good.
Jeremy Shockey, TE, New Orleans Saints
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Jeremy Shockey | New Orleans Saints | 6-foot-5, 251 pounds | 9th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 26 | 36 | 287 | 387 | 1 | 3 |
Pros: The former Miami Hurricane has the No. 1 job locked down in a potent passing attack. As long as Drew Brees is behind center, Shockey is a threat to go off for a 100-yard game. He was fairly consistent last year with nine games of four receptions or more in his 13 games played.
Cons: Injuries. Shockey has never completed a full 16-game slate; he missed three games last year and four the year before. He has already missed part of OTAs because of a seizure related to low blood sugar and dehydration. He has also been dealing with a sore back this offseason. His numbers are limited in an offense that features plenty of other options; his 48-569-3 line from last year was probably a ceiling.
Fantasy tip: Fantasy owners are taking Shockey in the 18th round, on average, as a low No. 2 tight end. That's probably fair value for him, if you're in a league that rosters two at the position. He is consistent, when he's healthy, but there isn't a lot of upside here. Rookie tight end Jimmy Graham, 6-foot-8, is expected to have a red zone role.
Benjamin Watson, TE, Cleveland Browns
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Benjamin Watson | Cleveland Browns | 6-foot-3, 255 pounds | 7th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 54 | 64 | 646 | 746 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: Watson should secure the No. 1 job in this offense, and with the lack of other quality receiving options, he could be a favorite of quarterback Jake Delhomme's.
Cons: This offense could rank near the bottom of the AFC, and this position has never been a huge contributor in an Eric Mangini-led team. Evan Moore displayed some receiving ability, and given his youth as well as Watson's injury history, he could factor if Cleveland decides to build try out the youngster.
Fantasy tip: Watson has some talent as a pass catcher, but he probably doesn't have enough to make up for the offense around him. He barely was fantasy worthy with the New England Patriots and hasn't gained much in his move to Cleveland. Leave him for the waiver wire.
Daniel Graham, TE, Denver Broncos
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Daniel Graham | Denver Broncos | 6-foot-3, 257 pounds | 9th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Pros: Tony Scheffler is on the Detroit Lions' roster, leaving Graham with the full starting job at tight end. Combining Scheffler and Graham's '09 numbers, you'd get 59 receptions for 705 yards and three touchdowns - respectable numbers for a weak No. 1. Quarterback Kyle Orton is more of a checkdown, short-yardage passer, which fits more in line with Graham's skills.
Cons: Just because Scheffler is gone it doesn't mean Graham will pick up all of the work that both received last year. Tight end Richard Quinn, a 2009 second-round pick, is a capable receiver. The Broncos' system has never been particularly tight end-friendly, so any upside here is capped.
Fantasy tip: Leave Graham for the waiver wire. He isn't typically drafted in any league type. The vet is only worth playing as a one-week play when the matchup is favorable.
Fred Davis, TE, Washington Redskins
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Fred Davis | Washington Redskins | 6-foot-4, 257 pounds | 3rd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 26 | 36 | 316 | 416 | 2 | 4 |
Pros: After starter Chris Cooley was injured, Davis inherited the No. 1 job and performed admirably. He scored five touchdowns in nine games after their Week 8 bye last year. Washington plans to continue to find ways to get him on the field, even with Cooley returning from his ankle injury.
Cons: As long as Cooley is in this offense, he'll limit the impact Davis can make. He has to show he's more than just a flash in the pan with his '09 second half - there's no real track record here.
Fantasy tip: Davis is going, on average, in the 18th round of most drafts. You could handcuff him to Cooley, if your league is deep enough, but he's mainly someone that should be reserved for deep dynasty league rosters.
Anthony Fasano, TE, Miami Dolphins
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Anthony Fasano | Miami Dolphins | 6-foot-4, 255 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 34 | 44 | 441 | 541 | 4 | 6 |
Pros: He's the starter in Miami's offense. Theoretically, Brandon Marshall should draw more coverage, leaving Fasano open more often that last year. Improved play from quarterback Chad Henne could strengthen this passing game.
Cons: Miami just hasn't made much use of Fasano since they acquired him two years ago. He caught only 31 passes for 339 yards last year and scored just twice. He's on a one-year deal so the Dolphins don't have much reason to be loyal, especially with a pair of cheaper options in Joey Haynos and John Nalbone on the roster.
Fantasy tip: Leave Fasano on the waiver wire in almost all leagues. You could pick him up for a one-week play, when the matchup favors him, because he has been a decent touchdown threat in the past.
Alge Crumpler, TE, New England Patriots
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Alge Crumpler | New England Patriots | 6-foot-2, 262 pounds | 10th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Pros: He makes the jump from the Tennessee Titans, where he wasn't utilized often, to the New England Patriots, who'll use him for his blocking and have a competent quarterback (Tom Brady) throwing the ball to him. His blocking skills should keep him on the field.
Cons: Now, his role has been limited, but his last decent season came in '06 when he caught 56 passes for 780 yards and eight scores. Last year, he managed just 27 receptions for 222 yards and one touchdown despite playing in all 16 games. Two rookies, Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, could see time as the season wears on, especially with their superior receiving skills.
Fantasy tip: Crumpler likely will be valued for his blocking - not one of the fantasy categories. Let him sit on the waiver wire. He hasn't been drafted in most fantasy leagues.
Low-tier tight end analysis
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Marcedes Lewis | Jacksonville Jaguars | 6-foot-6, 275 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 45 | 55 | 577 | 677 | 7 | 9 |
Fantasy tip: An imposing red zone target, Lewis hasn't lived up to his billing and boasts a measly seven career touchdown receptions. He set a career high in receiving yardage last year (518) and has enjoyed a great offseason. He is a bit of a sleeper candidate and has potential given Jacksonville's weak cast of receivers. He is a No. 2 tight end in deep leagues.
Tony Scheffler | Detroit Lions | 6-foot-5, 255 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: The former Denver Bronco hasn't quite lived up to the hype and frequently finds himself on the mend. A change of scenery may do him wonders, but he'll share playing time with second-year tight end Brandon Pettigrew (knee), who is coming off reconstructive surgery. Scheffler will be flexed out as a receiver at times. He has upside but shouldn't be considered more than a No. 2 fantasy tight end.
Bo Scaife | Tennessee Titans | 6-foot-3, 249 pounds | 6th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Hardly a threat to find the end zone, Scaife figures to hold off Jared Cook for the starting job in 2010. He was a former teammate of quarterback Vince Young at Texas and has caught at least 45 three years running. In deep leagues, Scaife is an unexciting backup option.
Brandon Pettigrew | Detroit Lions | 6-foot-5, 265 pounds | 2nd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 55 | 65 | 622 | 722 | 5 | 7 |
Fantasy tip: In the three games before blowing out his knee in Week 12, Pettigrew caught 15 passes for 165 yards and scored twice. He is on track to play in Week 1 but will share duties with Tony Scheffler. Pettigrew is a low-end No. 2 in deep leagues.
Daniel Graham | Denver Broncos | 6-foot-3, 257 pounds | 9th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Primarily known for his blocking skills, Graham figures to lead the way among Denver tight ends in 2010. He is an able receiver when given the chance, and the Broncos don't exactly have a lot of proven targets in their passing game. He has slight appeal as a No. 2 in really deep leagues, but Graham should be left for spot-play acquisition rentals from your league's wire.
Daniel Fells | St. Louis Rams | 6-foot-4, 272 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Built like an M4 Sherman tank, Fells showed surprisingly soft hands in limited play last year. He caught 21 balls for 273 yards and scored three times. His 13.0 yards-per-reception average is impressive. Fells has sleeper potential with a rookie quarterback likely taking over, but he is a low-end second or strong third in deep leagues.
Jimmy Graham | New Orleans Saints | 6-foot-6, 260 pounds | Rookie
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 49 | 59 | 580 | 680 | 7 | 9 |
Fantasy tip: The former basketball forward offers quarterback Drew Brees another toy in the passing game, primarily near the painted stripe. Graham (ankle) was supposed to have plays designed for him to take advantage of his basketball skills, although we're not sure how much he'll be used after missing a lot of camp time with an injury. He's a No. 3 in deep formats or a full-retention keeper add.
Jermaine Gresham | Cincinnati Bengals | 6-foot-5, 261 pounds | Rookie
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 60 | 70 | 724 | 824 | 5 | 7 |
Fantasy tip: Rookie tight ends rarely stand out in the NFL. Gresham, who missed the entire 2009 season at Oklahoma due to a severe knee injury, enters a less than friendly situation in a Bob Bratkowski offense that rarely utilizes the position. There are too many options in Cincy's passing game, and they want to remain committed to the run. Gresham is grossly overvalued by fantasy owners and should be left for the wire in non-keeper leagues.
Alge Crumpler | New England Patriots | 6-foot-2, 275 pounds | 9th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: The veteran enters his first year with the Patriots and should sit atop the depth chart, but that may be in name only. His blocking skills will probably keep him on the field, but you shouldn't expect much more production than his 2009 line of 27-222-1. Crumpler is, at best, a third tight end.
Martellus Bennett | Dallas Cowboys | 6-foot-6, 267 pounds | 3rd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: The talented tight end missed two games last year and failed to score after finding paydirt four times as a rookie in 2008. Bennett needs to remain healthy and focused to make an impact, which will be tempered playing behind Jason Witten. Bennett is a waiver wire pickup if you're desperately looking for a spot play.
Aaron Hernandez | New England Patriots | 6-foot-1, 245 pounds | Rookie
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 34 | 44 | 418 | 518 | 5 | 7 |
Fantasy tip: The undersized pass catcher from Florida runs crafty routes and has sure hands. He should post a few big weeks, but it will be tough to know when to play him. Single-year fantasy owners can leave him for the wire.
Dante Rosario | Carolina Panthers | 6-foot-4, 250 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: We've seen flashes from Rosario, but Carolina's system doesn't utilize the position enough to make him relevant to fantasy owners. Keep him on the waiver wire.
Rob Gronkowski | New England Patriots | 6-foot-6, 264 pounds | Rookie
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 36 | 46 | 454 | 554 | 7 | 9 |
Fantasy tip: Gronkowski caught a 24-yard touchdown pass in the second preseason game and has potential to see the field fairly often. He may be held in to block more than fantasy owners care to see. We feel his best value is in full-retention keeper formats, and he should be considered after rookie tight end teammate Aaron Hernandez.
Leonard Pope | Kansas City Chiefs | 6-foot-8, 264 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 24 | 34 | 220 | 320 | 1 | 3 |
Fantasy tip: Pope caught five touchdowns for the Todd Haley-coached Arizona Cardinals in 2007, and he figures to be the top tight end option for the Chiefs' 2010 Haley-controlled team. Pope has red zone capability but has battled injuries since his rookie year ended. He doesn't warrant draft consideration in any format.
Ben Patrick | Arizona Cardinals | 6-foot-3, 264 pounds | 4th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: In three fragmented seasons, Patrick has just 30 receptions and four touchdowns. Arizona's system rarely calls upon the tight end as a pass catcher, which makes Patrick a fantasy non-factor.
Desmond Clark | Chicago Bears | 6-foot-3, 249 pounds | 12th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Offensive coordinator Mike Martz seemingly has a personal vendetta against the tight end position. The 33-year-old Clark is No. 2 on the depth chart and doesn't merit fantasy consideration.
Shawn Nelson | Buffalo Bills | 6-foot-5, 240 pounds | 2nd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Nelson will miss the first four games after being suspended four games by the NFL. It was tough to suggest he had fantasy value in a 16-game slate; ignore him in all formats.
David Thomas | New Orleans Saints | 6-foot-3, 248 pounds | 5th year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Playing behind tight end Jeremy Shockey means you're a sneeze away from starting. New Orleans has too many weapons, though, to make Thomas a viable contributor for fantasy owners.
Jared Cook | Tennessee Titans | 6-foot-5, 246 pounds | 2nd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 45 | 55 | 539 | 639 | 4 | 6 |
Fantasy tip: Cook pushed for the starting job but is likely to remain a backup in 2010. Should he win the job, his value is moderate though not high enough that you'll need to rush out to grab him. He has upside in full-retention keeper leagues.
Ed Dickson | Baltimore Ravens | 6-foot-4, 250 pounds | Rookie
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
| 40 | 50 | 486 | 586 | 4 | 6 |
Fantasy tip: The rookie tight end from Oregon sits behind veteran Todd Heap on the depth chart. Heap has been injury-prone much of his career, so Dickson isn't all that far away from seeing playing time. Nevertheless, leave him for the wire in non-keeper formats.
James Casey | Houston Texans | 6-foot-3, 238 pounds | 2nd year
2010 Projected NFL/Fantasy Football Statistics
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| Rec | Rec Yds | Rec TD | |||
| Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi | Lo | Hi |
Fantasy tip: Casey played in 15 games and caught only six passes for 64 yards. Barring a setback in the recovery of tight end Owen Daniels (knee), Casey's fantasy value is essentially non-existent.
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