Tight Ends: Fantasy Football Difference Makers
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by FanProphet
Consistently fielding a quality TE is a daunting task due to the absence of depth at this position. However, All things being equal, having a quality TE adds tremendous value to your team and provides that added edge needed to win games.Rated 1-12 here’s a list of difference making Tight-Ends.
1. Antonio Gates: Ex-hooper turned All-Pro tight-end. If you are getting 9+ touchdowns in a season from this position then you’re in great shape. Rivers’ favorite target outside of Tomlinson and the Chargers only receiving threat.
2. Todd Heap: McNair came in late in the summer last season and Heap still managed to remain at the top of this position. With a full year and McNair’s dependence on a quality TE throughout his career, look for Heap to continue his consistency.
3. Alge Crumpler: This guy is just flat out good. Who cares who the QB in his situation, Crumpler will continue to post excellent (TE) fantasy numbers.
4. Kellen Winslow: Maybe he has finally shut his mouth and decided to play football. The Browns have improved this off-season and Winslow remains their primary receiving threat.
5. Jason Witten: This is the year where Witten’s role increases. Witten will provide a sure handed security option for young QB Tony Romo.
6. Tony Gonzalez: Even though young QB’s tend to rely on the security of a quality TE, without L.J. in the lineup, Gonzalez’s stock has dropped considerably. Being the only named player on this entire Kansas City offense is why Gonzalez has dropped to sixth overall.
7. Jeremy Shockey: Tough, intense, and Eli’s security blanket. With Toomer’s slowing down look for Shockey to continue to play an integral role in this offense.
8. L.J. Smith: McNabb will need more than Westbrook and Brown to get open this season. The Eagles couldn’t ask for a better TE in this system. Entering the prime of his career look for L.J. to improve upon his 2006 season of 50 catches and 5 touchdowns.
9. Chris Cooley: Fifty-seven catches and 6 touchdowns a season ago. Cooley has proven that he has the tools to be at the top of this list, however, the inexperience at QB has created some uncertainty to his overall value.
10. Vernon Davis: Here’s a kid who could really come out this season and make a huge name for himself. Quality QB and a great running game may be the only thing Davis needs as he develops into a great player and a consistent part of this 49ers offense.
11. Ben Watson: Watson should see quite a few open looks this season due to the addition of Moss and Stallworth. Should finish around 50 catches and 5-6 touchdowns.
12. Desmond Clark: Will see his fair share of TE touches but do not look for too much improvement on last years stats unless Grossman has improved during the off season.
