Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary: Top 10 TE Rankings + Draft Strategy (8/1)

Released on August 1, 2025, the "Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast" episode titled "Top 10 TE Rankings + Draft Strategy" dives deep into tight end rankings, draft strategies, and pertinent NFL news to equip fantasy football enthusiasts with the insights needed to dominate their leagues. Hosted by Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright, the episode offers a comprehensive analysis tailored for both seasoned and novice fantasy players.

Introduction and Season Outlook

As the NFL season kicks off, the Fantasy Footballers set the stage by highlighting the importance of early preparation and strategic drafting. Andy Holloway opens the discussion by emphasizing the shift from traditional talking heads to their expert trio's analytical approach. Jason Moore introduces the primary focus of the episode: the top 10 tight end (TE) rankings and the accompanying draft strategies essential for securing a championship-winning team.

NFL News and Updates

Before delving into rankings, the hosts touch upon recent NFL developments that could impact TE performances:

• Injuries: Jason Moore brings attention to Juwan Johnson’s groin injury, clarifying mixed up names in the conversation. The team discusses how injuries, like those to Brandon Aiyuk, affect depth and player availability.

  Jason Moore [10:03]: “Juwan Jennings misses third consecutive practice due to a calf strain...”

• Retirements and Trades: The retirement of Latavius Murray and the signing of Amir Abdullah by the 49ers are noted, highlighting their potential impact on TE dynamics.

  Mike Wright [13:01]: “Amir Abdullah, the Abdullah Express himself, signed by the 49ers.”

• Draft Strategy Tools: The hosts promote fantasychamps.com and the Ultimate Draft Kit, introducing tools like the Value Scout to help players make informed decisions based on projected player values versus Average Draft Positions (ADP).

Top 10 Tight End Rankings

The core of the episode centers on the consensus top 10 TE rankings, with each host sharing their perspectives and justifications.

1. Brock Bowers
   Ranked unanimously as the top TE, Bowers is lauded for his exceptional performance last season, averaging 12 fantasy points per game. The hosts anticipate an even more productive year given his role as a focal point in the offense.

   Andy Holloway [67:12]: “Brock Bowers was the tight end on my championship team last year.”

2. Trey McBride
   Coming in at number two, McBride's dominant season with nearly 200 fantasy points solidifies his position. Despite concerns about his high draft cost, his consistent target share and touchdown potential make him a reliable choice.

   Mike Wright [65:15]: “Highest target share among tight ends.”

3. George Kittle
   Positioned as a bargain in the fourth round, Kittle's proven track record and integral role in the offense make him a coveted pick. The hosts discuss his potential resurgence, especially if Rashi Rice, another TE, faces suspension.

   Jason Moore [61:19]: “Right now, the best bargain at the tight end position.”

4. Mark Andrews
   Once a perennial favorite, Andrews slips into the top 10 due to last season's regression in yardage despite high touchdown numbers. The hosts express cautious optimism, anticipating improved performances should he regain consistency.

   Andy Holloway [30:06]: “Mark Andrews was a touchdown machine last year with 11 touchdowns.”

5. Travis Kelsey
   At number five, Kelsey’s longevity and competitive spirit are highlighted. The potential suspension of Rashi Rice could elevate Kelsey’s value significantly, positioning him as a top-tier TE if he steps up in the absence of Rice.

   Jason Moore [46:46]: “Travis Kelsey is going to be a really, really sweet year for him.”

6. Sam LaPorta
   LaPorta's rise to number six is attributed to his explosive rookie season and growing rapport with his quarterback. Despite a rocky start, his potential for high targets and touchdowns keeps him highly ranked.

   Jason Moore [43:46]: “Sam LaPorta was sensational as a rookie and continues to impress.”

7. David Najoku
   Najoku is praised for his physical prowess and established role within his team’s offense. The hosts note his resilience and importance, especially in PPR (points per reception) leagues.

   Andy Holloway [39:11]: “David Najoku is the Titan Four and a crucial part of the offense.”

8. Evan Engram
   Engram's position at number eight is debated, with discussions revolving around his target efficiency in PPR formats. The hosts acknowledge his potential but recognize fluctuations in performance, making him a borderline top-ten selection.

   Andy Holloway [36:21]: “He should be getting five or six receptions a game in PPR leagues.”

9. Tucker Kraft
   Kraft's dynamic play style and yard-after-catch ability earn him the ninth spot. Despite lower overall targets, his big-play potential makes him a valuable late-round pick with high upside.

   Jason Moore [20:48]: “Tucker Kraft averaged 8.8 yards after the catch, leading tight ends.”

10. Brandon Aiyuk
    Closing the top 10, Aiyuk's defensive improvements and increased targets bolster his ranking. The hosts emphasize his role in high-scoring matchups, providing consistent fantasy points.

    Jason Moore [69:25]: “Brandon Aiyuk is crucial in high-scoring offenses.”

Draft Strategies and Position Investment

The discussion transitions to overarching draft strategies, particularly the investment in the TE position versus other key positions like quarterback. The hosts debate the opportunity cost of drafting an elite TE early, weighing the benefits of secure high-point players against the flexibility of streaming TE positions.

• Early Investment vs. Late-Round Upside: Investing early in a TE like Bowers or McBride can provide consistent points but may limit flexibility in drafting other positions. Conversely, waiting and selecting TEs based on week-to-week matchups can offer strategic advantages but carries the risk of uncertainty.

  Jason Moore [15:07]: “If you invest early in a TE, it's at the expense of another valuable position.”

• Strength of Schedule Considerations: Andy Holloway and Mike Wright discuss how the strength of a TE’s schedule can impact their performance, especially in the early weeks. Utilizing tools like the strength of schedule from the Ultimate Draft Kit can aid in making informed decisions.

  Andy Holloway [06:34]: “I like looking at the first three weeks’ strength of schedule to identify favorable matchups.”

• Value Scout Tool: The Value Scout tool is highlighted as a means to compare player values against ADP, allowing drafters to exploit market inefficiencies and secure high-impact players at lower costs.

  Jason Moore [03:30]: “The Value Scout tool gives you the ability to compare what we consider a player's true value.”

Notable Tight Ends and Sleepers

Beyond the top 10, the hosts identify sleepers and late-round picks that could provide significant value:

• Mason Taylor (New York Jets): Positioned as a breakout candidate, Taylor's integration into the Jets' system and his established rapport with quarterback Josh Reynolds make him a prime sleeper pick.

  Jason Moore [69:25]: “Mason Taylor is an amazing, amazing potential breakout candidate.”

• Tyler Warren and Colson Loveland: Both are highlighted for their high upside and potential to produce explosive plays, especially in PPR formats.

  Andy Holloway [70:11]: “Tyler Warren could be outstanding, and Colson Loveland has great hit potential.”

• Brenton Strange (Jacksonville Jaguars): Mentioned as a viable option for streaming TE positions due to his role as the primary target in the offense.

  Andy Holloway [71:20]: “Brenton Strange is a clear tight end one with a lot of vacated targets.”

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

As the episode wraps up, the Fantasy Footballers reiterate the importance of strategic positioning and leveraging tools like the Ultimate Draft Kit to refine draft approaches. They encourage listeners to consider both the median projections and the upside potential of TEs to build a balanced and competitive fantasy team.

Andy Holloway [71:47]: “Join our fantasy football community and stay tuned for more expert analysis throughout the season.”

The hosts urge fantasy managers to remain adaptable, stay informed on player news, and utilize available resources to maximize their draft strategies and in-season maneuvers.

Conclusion

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of tight end rankings and draft strategies, enriched with expert opinions and actionable insights. By navigating player performances, potential sleepers, and strategic investments, the hosts equip listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions and enhance their fantasy football prowess for the upcoming NFL season.