Week 2 of the NFL season presents new challenges and opportunities for fantasy football managers. This week's tight end rankings aim to help you make informed decisions about who to start, sit, and watch on your roster. Navigating the tight end landscape can be tricky, with breakout performances and potential disappointments always on the horizon. Stay tuned as we break down the top options and sleepers for Week 2.
Top Tier Tight Ends: The Reliable Starters
Travis Kelce remains the undisputed TE1 in almost all fantasy football formats. His connection with Patrick Mahomes is virtually unmatched, and he’s consistently the focal point of the Kansas City Chiefs' passing attack. Expect Kelce to command a high target share and produce elite numbers week after week. Even against a tough defense, Kelce’s volume and talent make him a must-start in all leagues. This week, keep a close eye on how the Chiefs utilize him in various formations and route combinations to maximize his impact.
Mark Andrews is another top-tier tight end who should be in your starting lineup every week. Andrews is the primary receiving option for the Baltimore Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson. His ability to make contested catches and gain yards after the catch makes him a valuable asset in fantasy football. In Week 2, watch for Andrews to exploit any mismatches in the secondary and continue his strong connection with Jackson. Owners should anticipate a high floor with the potential for game-breaking performances.
George Kittle consistently ranks among the top tight ends due to his exceptional athleticism and role in the San Francisco 49ers' offense. Kittle's blocking skills also keep him on the field for a high percentage of snaps, increasing his opportunities to make plays in the passing game. Monitor how the 49ers use Kittle in their evolving offensive schemes, particularly with new wrinkles designed to get him open downfield. Expect Kittle to be a key component of the 49ers' attack, making him a reliable fantasy starter.
High-Upside Plays
Darren Waller offers significant upside, especially in PPR formats. Waller is a primary target in the New York Giants' offense and has the potential to put up big numbers any given week. His size and speed make him a difficult matchup for opposing linebackers and safeties. Keep an eye on how the Giants utilize him in the red zone and in critical third-down situations. Even with some inconsistencies, Waller’s potential for a breakout game makes him a worthwhile starter in Week 2.
T.J. Hockenson is poised to have a strong season as a focal point of the Minnesota Vikings' passing game. Hockenson's ability to create separation and make tough catches makes him a reliable target for Kirk Cousins. Watch for Hockenson to be heavily involved in the Vikings' offensive game plan, particularly in the intermediate passing game. Fantasy managers should anticipate consistent production from Hockenson, making him a valuable asset in their lineups. The Vikings' offensive philosophy should cater to his strengths.
Kyle Pitts possesses immense talent and potential, though his usage in the Atlanta Falcons' offense has sometimes been inconsistent. Pitts' athleticism and ability to stretch the field make him a dangerous weapon. Monitor how the Falcons plan to utilize him this week and whether they make an effort to get him more involved in the passing game. If Pitts sees an increase in targets, he has the potential to be a league-winner. Fantasy owners should remain patient and hopeful that his role expands.
Mid-Tier Options: Streaming and Matchup-Based Starts
Dalton Schultz presents a solid option for fantasy managers looking for a reliable tight end. Schultz is a key part of the Houston Texans' passing attack and has a strong rapport with his quarterback. Expect Schultz to be targeted frequently in the short to intermediate passing game, making him a valuable asset in PPR formats. Consider Schultz a safe floor option with the potential for a decent ceiling, depending on the game script.
Evan Engram offers intriguing potential as a streaming option, especially in deeper leagues. Engram is a primary target in the Jacksonville Jaguars' offense and has the speed to create mismatches. Watch for Engram to be involved in various offensive schemes, including red-zone targets. Fantasy managers should monitor his usage closely, as his production can be volatile but with the potential for a significant payoff. — Days Until October 10: Countdown, Events & Significance
David Njoku could be a valuable streaming option, particularly if you're looking for a tight end with touchdown upside. Njoku is an athletic player who can make contested catches and gain yards after the catch. Monitor his target share in the Cleveland Browns' offense, as his production can fluctuate based on the game plan. If Njoku is heavily involved, he could be a difference-maker for your fantasy team. — How To Calculate Time Until 2:15? A Step-by-Step Guide
Sleepers and Risky Plays
Cole Kmet presents sleeper potential for fantasy managers in need of a tight end. Kmet is developing a strong connection with his quarterback and has the potential to be a red-zone threat. Keep an eye on his snap count and target share to gauge his potential impact. If Kmet gets enough opportunities, he could surprise fantasy owners with a solid performance.
Juwan Johnson is a risky play but has the potential for a high reward. Johnson is a versatile player who can line up in multiple positions and create mismatches. Monitor how the New Orleans Saints plan to utilize him and whether he becomes a focal point in the passing game. If Johnson sees an increase in targets, he could be a valuable addition to your fantasy lineup.
Gerald Everett offers some sleeper potential, particularly in deeper leagues. Everett has shown flashes of talent and could benefit from increased opportunities in his team's offense. Watch for Everett to be involved in various offensive schemes and whether he can establish a consistent role. Fantasy managers should monitor his progress closely, as he could become a valuable asset as the season progresses.
Players to Watch
Luke Musgrave is an intriguing rookie tight end who could emerge as a valuable fantasy asset. Musgrave possesses the athleticism and pass-catching skills to make an impact. Monitor his progress and how quickly he develops a rapport with his quarterback. If Musgrave starts to see more targets, he could become a valuable addition to your roster.
Sam LaPorta has generated buzz during training camp and could be a surprise contributor. LaPorta's receiving skills and ability to get open make him an interesting player to watch. Keep an eye on his snap count and target share to determine his potential value. If LaPorta can carve out a significant role in the offense, he could become a worthwhile fantasy option.
Irv Smith Jr. is looking to revive his career and could be a sleeper pick in deeper leagues. Smith Jr. has the talent to be a productive tight end, but he needs to stay healthy and earn a consistent role. Monitor his progress and how he fits into his team's offensive scheme. If Smith Jr. can regain his form, he could be a valuable asset for fantasy managers.
Injury Updates and News
Stay informed about the latest injury updates and news that could impact your tight end decisions. Injuries to key players can create opportunities for backups and sleepers to emerge. Always check reliable sources for the most up-to-date information before setting your lineup. Being proactive and informed can give you a significant advantage in your fantasy league.
Pay close attention to official injury reports and team press conferences. These sources often provide valuable insights into player availability and potential playing time. Additionally, monitor social media and fantasy football news outlets for breaking updates that could affect your decisions. Staying vigilant can help you avoid making costly mistakes and maximize your chances of success.
Ultimately, setting your fantasy lineup requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By staying informed and analyzing the available data, you can make informed decisions and optimize your chances of success. Good luck in Week 2! — Sales Positions In Denver: Find Your Next Opportunity
Tight End Rankings Week 2: FAQ
What tight end should I target on the waiver wire this week?
Consider players like Cole Kmet or Juwan Johnson, who have shown flashes of potential and may be available in your league. Monitor their snap counts and target shares to gauge their potential impact. These players could provide valuable depth to your roster and become reliable contributors as the season progresses.
Which highly-ranked tight end is most likely to bust in Week 2?
Kyle Pitts is a player to watch out for. Despite his immense talent, his usage in the Atlanta Falcons' offense has been inconsistent. If the Falcons don't make an effort to get him more involved in the passing game, he could underperform relative to expectations. Temper your expectations and monitor his usage closely.
Are there any rookie tight ends who could make an impact in Week 2?
Luke Musgrave and Sam LaPorta are two rookie tight ends to keep an eye on. Both have generated buzz during training camp and possess the skills to become valuable fantasy assets. Monitor their snap counts and target shares to determine their potential value. These rookies could emerge as surprise contributors as the season unfolds.
How much do tight end matchups matter for fantasy football?
Tight end matchups can significantly impact fantasy performance. Some defenses are particularly vulnerable to tight ends, while others excel at shutting them down. Research the opposing defense's tendencies and adjust your lineup accordingly. Targeting tight ends against favorable matchups can give you a significant advantage.
What strategies can I use to maximize my tight end slot in fantasy football?
Consider streaming tight ends based on matchups, especially if you don't have an elite option. Target tight ends who are heavily involved in their team's passing game and have a good rapport with their quarterback. Monitor injury reports and news closely to identify potential sleepers and waiver wire gems. Staying informed and proactive can help you maximize your tight end slot.
What are some common mistakes fantasy managers make when evaluating tight ends?
Overvaluing name recognition over current production is a common mistake. Also, failing to account for matchups and target share can lead to poor decisions. Ignoring rookie tight ends with potential and not staying informed about injuries can also be detrimental. Focus on current performance, matchups, and usage to make informed decisions.
How should I handle having two potentially startable tight ends on my roster?
Evaluate their matchups and potential target shares for the week. If one has a significantly better matchup or is expected to see more targets, start that player. You can also consider trading one of them to address needs at other positions. Assess your team's overall needs and make the decision that benefits your team the most.
Which tight ends are most likely to score a touchdown in Week 2?
Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews are always strong candidates to score touchdowns. Additionally, players like T.J. Hockenson and Darren Waller are heavily involved in their team's red-zone offense and have a good chance of finding the end zone. Look for tight ends who are primary targets in the red zone and have a proven track record of scoring touchdowns.
