The tight end position in fantasy football has grown from a one time afterthought to a position in which games are won and lost. Looking ahead at the ’07 NFL season here are the top 5 tight ends to keep your eye on.
- Antonio Gates, San Diego Chargers(71 receptions, 924 yards, and 9 TDs). The primary receiver on one of the most explosive offenses in football, look for Antonio to continue his monster seasons in San Diego as this young receiving core improves. Gates’ numbers are automatic because there is always the LT threat, often leaving Antonio in single coverage after well executed play action. If the receivers do improve we may see a record season from Antonio.
- L.J. Smith , Philadelphia Eagles (50 receptions, 611 yards, and 5 TDs). L.J's move up on the board is in conjunction with the return of Donovan McNabb. Coupling that with the departure of Donte Stallworth, the importance of L.J. to the Eagle offense has increased. As Andy Reid continues to be a pass first play caller, L.J.’s opportunities will increase. Smith’s speed gives him the ability to take advantage of linebackers as well as strong safeties (Roy Williams) down the middle of the field.
- Tony Gonzalez, Kansas City Chiefs (73 receptions, 900 yards, and 5 TDs). On talent alone, Gonzalez is second to none, but here is a case of a player’s circumstances impacting his fantasy value. The circumstances are an unproven QB (Hoard or Coyle), Herm Edwards’ conservative offense, and the lack of an outside receiving threat. Gonzalez will get his numbers (as he did last year), but eventually the circumstances will begin to take a toll on his numbers (that will be next year).
- Alge Crumpler, Atlanta Falcons (56 receptions, 780 yards, and 8 TDs). This year, Mike Vick's security blanket is going to have reliable outside help (allegedly). Crumpler seemed to have lost focus a few times last year, don’t expect that again this year. Crumpler will see less coverage as an aging Joe Horn comes in to mentor a young, but talented group of receivers and Bobby Petrino has developed a reputation of getting the most out of his offenses.
- Todd Heap, Baltimore Ravens (73 receptions, 765 yards, and 6 TDs). Heap is a very reliable tight end and his second season with Steve McNair, (who is known to utilize his tight ends) should be just as efficient as his first year. Heap is the go to receiver in the Raven passing attack as the wide outs continue to grow. The breakaway threat of Willis McGahee will provide for more opportunities in which Heap should draw one on one coverage. He will take advantage of them with his size and body positioning providing a target for McNair’s passes.
After the top 5 there are still quality tight ends on the cusp of big years and they are Jeremy Shockey, (how will he and the Giant offense fair without Tiki?) Kellen Winslow Jr., (needs to get into the end zone: 3 tds in 18 games) Jason Witten, needs the red zone opportunities and Chris Cooley (very productive, needs to do it one more year at this level).
So there are the top tight ends for the 2007 fantasy football season.
Picks 4 thru 8
Augustine J. Dashiell - Augustine is an aspiring sportswriter, looking to gain experience. Looking at his chosen field, he realizes experience is hard to gain and ...
