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After Rob Gronkowski, there are no certifiable elite tight ends for fantasy football owners. But that does not mean contributors can’t be found among less-than notable names, as evidenced by Gary Barnidge finishing as the third-highest scoring tight end in ESPN standard leagues last year. In that spirit, here are five deep sleepers at the tight end position for 2016.
5. Hunter Henry, San Diego Chargers
Getty ImagesHenry has been drafted as a backup to Antonio Gates, but the future Hall of Famer will turn 36 years old soon and could be in for a scaled back role. It will likely take an injury to Gates, but Henry could become a TE1 for fantasy owners as a rookie.
4. Tyler Kroft, Cincinnati Bengals
Getty ImagesTyler Eifert's recent ankle surgery has his status for Week 1 in doubt, and he may be at less than full strength well into the season. Kroft has an opportunity now, and he had seven catches for 77 yards and a touchdown over two starts last season.
3. Austin Hooper, Atlanta Falcons
Getty ImagesBeyond Julio Jones and free agent signing Mohamed Sanu, there are targets available in Atlanta's passing game. Hooper only has to beat out Jacob Tamme and Levine Toilolo for snaps, and he's a rare rookie tight end who can make a fantasy impact.
2. Jeff Heuerman, Denver Broncos
Getty ImagesHeuerman missed his entire rookie season with a torn ACL, but early indications have him in line to be Denver's starting tight end. On a team without an obvious third option in the passing game, Heuerman should at least be a top red zone target.
1. Will Tye, New York Giants
Getty ImagesTye had 42 receptions for 464 yards and three touchdowns in 2015, with 32 catches over the last seven games. As the favorite to be the Giants' No. 1 tight end right now, Eli Manning can make Tye a consistent fantasy factor in short order.
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