A tight end can solidify a dynasty roster. Consistency in the position creates a sigh of relief. When targeting a tight end when rebuilding, it will be important to understand multiple variables. Your roster construction, leaguemates' roster constructions, the waiver wire, and upcoming draft class.
RELATED: See Tight Ends to Trade Away here >>>
If you can acquire a young tight end like Trey McBride or Dalton Kincaid, do it.
But if you are rebuilding, you may not have the assets (players or draft picks) to formulate a trade offer for a tight end of their caliber. Here are some easier targets to trade for (and some bonus targets likely available on the waiver wire).
Rebuilding TE to Trade For #1
Brock Bowers, Las Vegas – TE5
Bowers' talent is obvious, and his long-term value is secured. You can argue for Bowers being the number one tight-end prospect in history. This may be the last time you can acquire Bowers at his current cost. His skillset makes him more than just a tight end. He lined up in the slot 52% in college and accumulated 19 rushing attempts. I would not hesitate to trade an asset like Michael Pittman for Bowers, especially when you can get a future third added on.
Rebuilding TE to Trade For #2
Pat Freiermuth, Pittsburgh – TE17
Freiermuth has averaged 5.1 targets per game in his career. The immediate future bodes well for his outlook. Offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's offense targeted tight ends at the highest rate in 2023. Pittsburgh may trade for Brandon Aiyuk, which would reduce Freiermuth's value further. These are the windows we should attack when buying talented players. I would not want to trade a second-round selection for Freiermuth but rather pivot off the aging assets like Aaron Jones or Jerry Jeudy.
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Rebuilding TE to Trade For #3
Isaiah Likely, Baltimore – TE19
Mark Andrews is the main target in Baltimore. An offense is capable of utilizing multiple tight ends in their scheme. Likely has played in a limited role, averaging 22.5% snaps per season. He has averaged 50 targets, 33 receptions, 392 yards, and four touchdowns per season. His role has increased each year and has developed his skillset. Coach John Harbaugh said, “He's going to be a big part of what we do.”
Rebuilding TE to Trade For #4
Michael Mayer, Las Vegas – TE21
The arrival of Brock Bowers forms a cloud over Mayer and his dynasty outlook. I am not too concerned, as the duo plays entirely different positions. Las Vegas has emphasized maneuvering Bowers within the offense; lining up in the slot or the backfield. This bodes well for Mayer. He can still find a meaningful role within the offense. Las Vegas should be utilizing 12 personnel. As a rookie, Mayer ranked for tight ends:
- 8th in yards after catch per reception (among tight ends over 20 receptions)
- 9th in yards per reception (among tight ends over 20 receptions)
Situations change while Talent stays the same. Bet on Mayer's talent. In other words, if Las Vegas trades Adams or finds their franchise quarterback in 2025, Mayer's outlook is favorable.
Rebuilding TE to Trade For #5
Greg Dulcich, Denver – TE32
Like Mayer, Dulcich plays a different position than other tight ends in Denver. In his rookie season, Dulcich had 55 targets in 10 games. He was one of five rookie tight ends to have a 70% route participation. The recent injury history deflated his value. I am willing to bet on his rookie season, and I am optimistic that he will return to similar usage. Denver has an open target competition.
Rebuilding TE Waiver Wire Targets
You may have room on your taxi squad or can drop a player to stash a young tight end for the future. These players are not guaranteed to hit. If they do, you have found gold. I checked a dynasty league waiver wire with Footballguys staff:
Brenton Strange, Jacksonville – TE43
Evan Engram has zero guaranteed salary in 2025. Strange is entering his second season and fits the developmental trajectory. What if Strange develops and takes over in 2025?
Josh Whyle, Tennessee – Unranked
Entering his second season and could claim the TE1 role over Chigoziem Okonkwo. What if Whyle competes and wins the starting role at any point in the season?
Devin Culp, Tampa Bay – Unranked
Seventh-round rookie selection with 4.47 speed. He has the desired athleticism for fantasy production. What if Culp is like Elijah Higgins, who develops into an athletic move or "F" tight end?
Obviously, these three tights are long shots. But long shots sometimes hit. We are making an educated guess and hoping luck comes our way.