2024 saw a promising year for tight ends in the NFL, with George Kittle, Brock Bowers, and Trey McBride surpassing 1,100 receiving yards, a feat not achieved since 2018. However, not all tight ends excelled; Travis Kelce had a lackluster season, and Sam LaPorta disappointed after high expectations. Dalton Kincaid found himself as a notable bust, significantly underperforming compared to his rookie year.

Despite a great start in 2023, Kincaid's 2024 was marred by injuries and a drop in statistics. Similarly, Jake Ferguson's performance declined as he failed to find the end zone after showing promise the previous season. Evan Engram, although initially thriving, also faced injuries and a decrease in production, raising questions about his future.

Patrick Mahomes is in the midst of a career dip, posting back-to-back seasons with 17 fantasy points per game, far below his previous average of 23.5. Changes in team dynamics, including a possible decline of Travis Kelce, and an ineffective offensive line, have limited his deep ball attempts. However, the potential resurgence in Mahomes' production might come with improved offensive support and a shift back to a more aggressive passing game.

Kenneth Walker III started the season strong but faltered due to injuries and offensive struggles, ultimately finishing as an underwhelming RB27. With a new offensive coordinator focused on the running game, there's hope for Walker to regain his form in 2025. Rome Odunze, a rookie with high expectations, had a disappointing first year but could benefit from a shift in the Bears' offensive strategy under new coaching.

Jake Ferguson’s 2024 season was marred by injuries and lack of scoring opportunities, yet with a returning Dak Prescott, he could see an uptick in productivity. As the offseason unfolds, Ferguson may emerge as a sleeper pick for fantasy managers.

In the ever-evolving landscape of dynasty fantasy football, astute managers are honing in on potential breakout stars as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. Among the most promising players is New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, who showcased remarkable dual-threat abilities during his rookie season. With the Patriots possibly enhancing their receiving corps, Maye's mobility could make him a coveted asset in fantasy leagues.

Another player to watch is Miami Dolphins running back Jaylen Wright. With Raheem Mostert's departure, Wright stands to gain significant opportunity as the backup to De’Von Achane, especially if Achane's injury woes resurface. Meanwhile, Denver Broncos wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr. is primed for a breakout after finishing strong last season. Lastly, Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson, despite a disappointing 2024, could rebound with Dak Prescott returning, making him a value pick in drafts.

The tight end landscape in fantasy football has shifted dramatically, with an influx of viable options emerging this season. Notably, Brock Bowers, Trey McBride, George Kittle, Jonnu Smith, Travis Kelce, and David Njoku established themselves as strong picks, while Mark Andrews and Sam LaPorta also climbed the rankings as the season progressed. However, several prominent tight ends fell short of expectations and are facing a significant decline in their draft stock for the upcoming season.

Among the most disappointing performers, Dalton Kincaid, expected to thrive amid the Buffalo Bills’ restructuring, registered as the TE30 after being drafted as TE5. Injuries hindered Evan Engram, who played only nine games and finished as TE33. Kyle Pitts continued his downward trend with a TE14 finish, while Jake Ferguson saw his production plummet following Dak Prescott's injury, ending up as TE25. As we head into the fantasy playoffs, these tight ends have cast doubt on their future value.

Fantasy managers should be cautious about relying on certain tight ends as touchdown regression looms. Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens, for example, had a stellar 2024 season with a 16.0% touchdown rate, which is unsustainable given his overall target volume and historic averages. Andrews’s low target count paired with a high touchdown catch rate raises concerns for 2025.

Tucker Kraft from the Green Bay Packers capitalized on teammate injuries but is expected to face stiffer competition in the upcoming season, making his touchdown total likely to dwindle from the seven he posted last year. The same can be said for Zach Ertz, who at 35, experienced a surprising resurgence in 2024 with seven touchdowns, but his age and status as a tight end make him a regression candidate for 2025.