Top Tight Ends for Fantasy Football: Your 2022 Cheat Sheet

Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! We're back with another season of epic drafts, lineup shenanigans, and hopefully, some bragging rights. Today, we're diving into the top tight ends for fantasy football in 2022. So, grab your note-taking devices, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and top tight ends for fantasy.

Why Tight Ends Matter in Fantasy Football

Before we dive into our list, let's talk about why tight ends are crucial in fantasy football. While some leagues may not require you to start one, having a reliable tight end can significantly boost your team's scoring potential. Tight ends are often less predictable than wide receivers and running backs, making them a strategic wildcard in your lineup.

The Top Tight Ends for 2022: A Closer Look

1. Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs

Kicking off our list is none other than Travis Kelce, the reigning king of fantasy tight ends. Here's why he's our number one pick:

- Consistency is key: Kelce has finished as a top-three tight end in fantasy points in each of the last five seasons. That's right, folks; he's as reliable as they come. - Quarterback connection: With Patrick Mahomes throwing him the ball, Kelce's big-play potential is always there. - Target monster: Kelce has averaged 105 targets per season over the past five years. That's more than any other tight end in the league.

2. George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers

George Kittle is a beast at the tight end position, and here's why he's our second pick:

- Elite athleticism: Kittle's combination of size, speed, and agility makes him a matchup nightmare for defenses. - Volume and efficiency: While Kittle's target numbers may not pop off the page, his catch rate and yards per catch are among the best in the league. - Offensive line and scheme: The 49ers' run-heavy offense and formidable offensive line create opportunities for Kittle to make plays in the passing game.

3. Darren Waller, Las Vegas Raiders

Darren Waller has been a fantasy darling since joining the Raiders, and here's why he's our third pick:

- Target hog: Waller has seen at least 100 targets in each of the past two seasons, making him a consistent fantasy option. - Quarterback upgrade: With Derek Carr under center, Waller has a reliable passer to get him the ball. - Breakout potential: Waller has shown flashes of elite production, and with another year in the Raiders' offense, he could take that next step.

4. Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons

Kyle Pitts is a young, talented tight end with immense potential, and here's why he's our fourth pick:

- Athletic freak: Pitts' combination of size, speed, and agility is unmatched at the tight end position. - Rookie production: Despite playing with a struggling Falcons offense, Pitts finished as a top-10 fantasy tight end in his rookie season. - Offensive upgrade: With a new coaching staff and potential quarterback upgrade, Pitts could take a significant step forward in his sophomore campaign.

5. Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens

Mark Andrews has been a consistent fantasy producer for the Ravens, and here's why he's our fifth pick:

- Quarterback connection: Andrews has developed a strong rapport with Lamar Jackson, who trusts him in crucial situations. - Red zone threat: Andrews has scored at least six touchdowns in each of the past three seasons. - Volume concerns: While Andrews' target numbers may not be eye-popping, his efficiency and touchdown upside make him a valuable fantasy asset.

Sleepers and Streamers

While the tight ends listed above are our top picks, there are always sleepers and streamers who can provide valuable production. Here are a couple of names to keep an eye on:

- Hunter Henry, New England Patriots: Henry has shown flashes of elite production and could benefit from a full season with Mac Jones under center. - T.J. Hockenson, Detroit Lions: Hockenson has shown improvement in each of his first three seasons and could take a significant step forward with a new coaching staff and quarterback.

Draft Strategy

When it comes to drafting tight ends, it's essential to have a strategy. In leagues that start one tight end, you have a few options:

- Wait it out: Tight ends tend to be less valuable than other skill positions, so waiting until the later rounds to draft one can be a solid strategy. - Target elite production: If you prefer to prioritize the tight end position, targeting one of the top tight ends early can provide a significant advantage. - Streaming: In leagues that allow it, streaming tight ends can be an effective strategy. This involves starting a different tight end each week based on matchups and opportunity.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! Our list of the top tight ends for fantasy football in 2022. Whether you're looking for consistency or upside, there's a tight end out there to fit your team's needs. So, get out there, dominate your drafts, and may the fantasy football gods be ever in your favor!

Happy drafting, and we'll see you on the gridiron!