The 2025 NFL offseason has been pivotal for tight ends, with significant shifts in average draft position (ADP) due to free agency and player performances. Mike Gesicki of the Cincinnati Bengals has seen a notable rise, jumping from TE27 to TE23 after a productive season, which featured him stepping up as a key target in the Bengals' high-octane offense. With Joe Burrow at the helm, Gesicki's role has expanded significantly, especially during Tee Higgins' injury period, making him a strong late-round pick

Brenton Strange from the Jacksonville Jaguars has emerged as a sleeper, benefitting from Evan Engram's departure and showcasing efficiency when given opportunities. His rise to TE19 signifies the trust the team has in him. Conversely, Cade Otton of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Goedert of the Philadelphia Eagles have seen their stocks fall due to concerns over target saturation and injuries, respectively. Otton's role remains secure, but with the addition of new talent to their roster, his path to consistent targets may be compromised. Goedert's situation is precarious as he remains a low-end starter in a crowded Eagles offense.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offense has been explosive, averaging 29.5 points per game last season under Baker Mayfield. However, the season was marred by Chris Godwin's ankle injury that forced him to miss half the season. In a surprising move, the Buccaneers selected Ohio State receiver Emeka Egbuka in the first round of the NFL Draft, hinting at a strategy to bolster their receiving corps with Godwin's recovery in mind.

Despite widespread speculation, Buccaneers' GM Jason Licht clarified that the decision was about acquiring the best talent available. He reassured fans about Godwin's recovery progress, stating that he is on track for a Week 1 return, allowing the team to manage his rehabilitation without rushing him back into action. With a wealth of receiving options, including Mike Evans, Jalen McMillan, and rookie Egbuka, Tampa Bay is poised to maintain its offensive prowess while ensuring that Godwin returns at full strength.

Tight end is a crucial position in fantasy football, and the depth heading into the 2025 season is noteworthy. Notable new talents like Brock Bowers and Trey McBride are entering the fray, but many veterans are being overlooked in drafts. Teams can strategically wait to draft tight ends without sacrificing quality, as the position has significant depth this year.

For 2025, several tight ends are primed for breakout seasons at reasonable draft positions. Cole Kmet of the Chicago Bears struggled last year but is under a new regime with potential for improvement. Cade Otton of Tampa Bay showed promise when thrust into a larger role due to injuries. Meanwhile, Ja’Tavion Sanders, now the sole tight end under contract for the Panthers, could capitalize on opportunities in a developing offense.

In an unprecedented turn of events in the 2024 NFL season, tight ends defied expectations, with rookies and underperformers rising to the challenge. Brock Bowers, a standout rookie with the Las Vegas Raiders, emerged as the top tight end (TE1), showcasing versatility and reliability. Meanwhile, Jonnu Smith of the Miami Dolphins delivered a career-best season, finishing as TE4. Zach Ertz, now with the Washington Commanders, demonstrated he still has gas left in the tank, bouncing back from injury to post impressive stats. Tucker Kraft of the Green Bay Packers made noise despite fierce competition, while Cade Otton from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers showed flashes of promise. Lastly, Mike Gesicki reinvented himself with the Cincinnati Bengals, proving doubters wrong. This year's tight end landscape was anything but predictable.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers concluded a successful 2024 season, achieving their fourth consecutive NFC South title with a solid 10-7 record, marking Todd Bowles' best season as head coach. Despite facing injuries to key receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, quarterback Baker Mayfield excelled, throwing a career-high 41 touchdowns and leading the team to a top-five offense.

However, Mayfield's performance was marred by a league-high 16 interceptions and 13 fumbles, which he must improve upon in the upcoming season. With a new offensive coordinator, Mayfield has the potential to further elevate his game.